Thrush
Thrush is a yeast infection of the mucous membranes that line the mouth and the tongue. Thrush is a common condition that is seen in babies and older adults as a result of a weakened immune system.
Causes of Thrush
Thrush, also referred to as Candidiasis, occurs when there is an imbalance of the body's immune system causing an excessive amount of Candida albicans yeast to develop in the mouth or throat.
Causes of thrush may include the following:
- Antibiotics
- Poor health
- Low birth weight
- HIV infection
- AIDS
- Diabetes
- Age
- Chemotherapy treatment
- Radiation treatment
- Vaginal yeast infection
Symptoms of Thrush
Thrush produces white patches that can become red and sore if irritated. Patients with thrush may also experience pain or difficulty swallowing, fever and bleeding. In severe cases, it may spread to other areas of the body as well. The most common symptoms of thrush are:
- White or yellow patches on the tongue, lips, gums, palate and inner cheeks
- Painful swallowing
- Bloody lesions
Diagnosis of Thrush
Diagnosis of thrush is usually done with a visual examination of the mouth and tongue. If diagnosis is uncertain, the following tests may be conducted:
- A culture of the lesions
- Microscopic analysis of the lesions
- Endoscopic procedure
Treatment of Thrush
Treatment of thrush is focused on stopping the spread of the fungus. For infants, thrush treatment is usually not necessary because it eventually resolves on its own. Treatment of thrush may involve:
- Antifungal medication or mouthwash
- Restoring the natural balance of fungus in the mouth
- Controlling blood sugar
- Rinsing the mouth with a diluted hydrogen peroxide solution
- Replacing currently used toothbrush with a softer brush
Medication, in the form of a liquid or lozenge, is applied directly to the white patches in the mouth. To prevent thrush from occurring, the mouth should be kept clean. Dentures should be disinfected regularly as well as any bottle nipples and pacifiers.