Think you might have oral thrush (oral candidiasis)? Symptoms and treatments you need to know.

Oral Thrush

Oral thrush, also known as oral candidiasis, is a common fungal infection that affects the mouth and throat. It’s common to have a thrush in your mouth or thrush on your tongue.

Causes of Oral Thrush

Oral thrush is caused by a fungus called Candida albicans, which is present in the mouth and digestive tract of most healthy individuals. However, certain factors can increase the risk of developing oral thrush, including:

• Use of a steroid inhaler: It is always advised to rinse your mouth after using your corticosteroid inhaler
• Antibiotic use: Antibiotics can disrupt the balance of bacteria and fungi in the mouth, allowing Candida to grow.
• Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can promote the growth of Candida.
• Dry mouth: Saliva helps to flush out bacteria and fungi from the mouth, so a dry mouth can increase the risk of oral thrush.
• Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or cancer, are at higher risk of developing oral thrush.
• Healthy newborn babies and infants

Symptoms of Oral Thrush

The most common symptoms of oral thrush include:

• White, creamy patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, tonsils, or roof of the mouth
• Redness or soreness in the affected areas
• Difficulty swallowing
• Loss of taste
• Cracking or bleeding at the corners of the mouth

Preventing Oral Thrush

There are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing oral thrush:

1. Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to help keep your mouth clean and prevent the buildup of bacteria and fungi.
2. Limit sugar and refined carbohydrates: Candida feeds on sugar and refined carbohydrates, so limiting your intake of these foods can help prevent overgrowth.
3. Treat underlying conditions: If you have an underlying condition that increases your risk of oral thrush, such as diabetes or HIV/AIDS, it’s important to manage it properly to reduce your risk.
4. Avoid smoking: Smoking can weaken the immune system and irritate the mouth, making it more susceptible to infection.

Oral Thrush Treatment

If you develop oral thrush, you may be prescribed an oral thrush medication (antifungal suspension) to get rid of the fungal infection in your mouth.