Thrush

Thrush is a fungal infection of the mouth caused by an overgrowth of the yeast organism Candida albicans. Thrush usually begins on the tongue and inside of the cheeks and may spread to the palate, gums, tonsils, and throat. In severe cases, the infection may spread to the voicebox, digestive tract, respiratory system, or skin.

Causes

Many microorganisms live in the mouth, including yeast and bacteria. Thrush occurs when the normal balance of these organisms is upset. This allows an overgrowth of Candida to occur.

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
  • Age:
    • Infants and toddlers
    • Elderly
  • Weakened immune system due to:
    • HIV/AIDS
    • Medical treatments such as cancer chemotherapy
  • Stress
  • Prolonged illness
  • Use of antibiotics
  • Use of corticosteroids, oral or inhaled
  • Diabetes
  • Hormonal changes, such as pregnancy or use of birth control pills
  • Dentures
  • Conditions that cause a dry mouth

Symptoms

The symptoms of thrush occur in the mouth. Symptoms include:
  • White, raised patches
  • Red, slightly raised patches
  • Discharge with a curd-like appearance (like cottage cheese)
  • Thick, dark brownish coating in the mouth
  • Dry mouth
  • Fissures or cracks in the mouth

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and examine your mouth. A sample of cells from the affected area may be scraped off and examined under a microscope.

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to restore the normal balance of bacteria and yeast in the mouth. Treatments may include:
Antifungal Medication
Thrush may be treated with oral medicine that is active against yeast including:
  • Nystatin
  • Clotrimazole
  • Miconazole
Breast-feeding mothers of babies with thrush can use a topical antifungal medication on their nipples to reduce the babys infection. Treatment of Underlying Medical Conditions
Underlying conditions that may contribute to thrush can be identified and treated.
Proper Oral Hygiene
Oral hygiene practices that may aid in healing include:
  • Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water
  • Gently scraping off patches with a toothbrush

Prevention

Preventive measures may include:
  • If you are at high risk or prone to thrush, you may be given an antifungal medication as a preventive measure.
  • If you are prone to thrush, avoid overuse of mouthwashes and mouth sprays.These can upset the normal balance of yeast and bacteria in your mouth.
  • If your baby is prone to thrush and drinks from a bottle, use disposable nipples and discard them after each use.
  • Avoid unnecessary use of antibiotics.
  • If you use a cortisone inhaler, rinse your mouth thoroughly after each use.