What are the common symptoms of oral thrush. How can you effectively treat oral thrush at home. When should you seek medical attention for oral thrush. What are the long-term treatment options for severe cases of oral thrush.

Understanding Oral Thrush: A Common Fungal Infection

Oral thrush, also known as oral candidiasis or oropharyngeal candidiasis, is a fungal infection that occurs in the mouth, throat, or esophagus. It’s caused by an overgrowth of Candida, a type of yeast naturally present in the mouth and digestive tract. While oral thrush can affect anyone, it’s most common in babies, toddlers, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Can oral thrush develop in healthy adults? Yes, although it’s less common. Factors that increase the risk of oral thrush in adults include smoking, wearing dentures, and certain medical conditions that compromise the immune system.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Oral Thrush

The symptoms of oral thrush can vary depending on age and the severity of the infection. However, some common signs include:

• White, rash-like patches on the tongue, cheeks, upper mouth, tonsils, and throat
• A dry, cotton-like feeling in the mouth
• Loss of taste
• Raised red spots resembling cottage cheese
• Redness and cracking around the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing (in cases where the infection has spread to the esophagus)

Are the symptoms different in infants? Yes, infants with oral thrush may experience additional symptoms such as:

• A sore mouth
• Decreased sucking when breastfeeding or bottle-feeding
• White coating on the tongue

For breastfeeding mothers, oral thrush in infants can lead to sensitive, cracked, or sore nipples.

Immediate Treatment Options for Oral Thrush

While oral thrush typically clears up within a few weeks with proper antifungal treatment, there are several immediate steps you can take to manage the infection and prevent its spread:

1. Practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing at least twice a day
2. Replace your toothbrush frequently and avoid sharing it with others
3. If you wear dentures, disinfect them regularly to prevent reinfection
4. For breastfeeding mothers, use breast pads without plastic barriers to prevent yeast growth
5. Consider consuming probiotics through yogurt or over-the-counter acidophilus pills to repopulate beneficial bacteria in your body

Is it safe to use over-the-counter treatments for oral thrush? In mild cases, especially those following a course of antibiotics, consuming probiotics or using OTC antifungal treatments may be sufficient. However, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any treatment.

Long-Term Treatment for Severe Cases of Oral Thrush

For more severe cases of oral thrush, antifungal medications are typically prescribed. These may include:

• Antifungal mouthwash (nystatin)
• Lozenges (clotrimazole)
• Oral antifungal medicines like fluconazole (Diflucan) or itraconazole (Sporanox)

The duration of treatment usually ranges from 10 to 14 days, depending on the individual’s age and the underlying cause of the infection. For those with uncompromised immune systems, oral thrush should resolve within two weeks of treatment.

How effective are these long-term treatments? Antifungal medications are generally very effective in treating oral thrush. However, if symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Preventing Oral Thrush: Key Strategies

While it’s not always possible to prevent oral thrush, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk:

• Maintain good oral hygiene
• Rinse your mouth after using corticosteroid inhalers
• Manage underlying health conditions, such as diabetes
• Limit sugar and yeast-containing foods in your diet
• Quit smoking
• Regularly clean and sterilize items that come into contact with your mouth, such as dentures, pacifiers, and bottle nipples

Can dietary changes help prevent oral thrush? While there’s no specific diet to prevent oral thrush, maintaining a balanced diet rich in nutrients that support immune function can help. Additionally, limiting sugar intake may help control Candida growth.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Oral Thrush

While many cases of oral thrush can be managed at home, there are situations where medical attention is necessary. Seek medical care if you experience:

• Thrush-like sores that don’t improve with home treatment
• Persistent difficulty or pain when swallowing
• Thrush symptoms alongside an underlying medical condition, such as HIV
• Fever or other signs of infection

For infants with oral thrush, consult a pediatrician if your child:

• Shows signs of dehydration
• Hasn’t urinated in more than eight hours
• Has dark urine and a dry mouth
• Develops bleeding sores in the mouth
• Appears or acts very sick

Why is it important to seek medical attention in these cases? Persistent or severe oral thrush may indicate an underlying health condition or a weakened immune system that requires further investigation and treatment.

Oral Thrush in Special Populations: Considerations and Challenges

While oral thrush can affect anyone, certain populations may face unique challenges in managing the condition:

Infants and Young Children

Oral thrush is particularly common in infants due to their developing immune systems. It can interfere with feeding and cause discomfort. For breastfed infants, the infection can pass between the baby and the mother, leading to a cycle of reinfection if not properly addressed.

Elderly Individuals

Older adults are more susceptible to oral thrush due to factors such as weakened immune systems, use of dentures, and certain medications. They may also have difficulty maintaining proper oral hygiene, increasing their risk of infection.

Immunocompromised Individuals

People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, or organ transplant recipients, are at higher risk for developing oral thrush. In these cases, the infection may be more severe and challenging to treat.

How does treatment differ for these special populations? Treatment approaches may need to be tailored to the individual’s age, overall health status, and specific needs. For example, infants may require gentler treatments, while immunocompromised individuals might need more aggressive antifungal therapy and closer monitoring.

The Impact of Oral Thrush on Quality of Life

While oral thrush is often considered a minor infection, it can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, particularly when left untreated or in severe cases. Some potential effects include:

• Difficulty eating and drinking due to mouth pain or altered taste
• Embarrassment or self-consciousness about the appearance of white patches in the mouth
• Anxiety about potential spread of the infection to others
• Discomfort during intimacy, particularly if the infection affects the throat
• Sleep disturbances due to discomfort

Can oral thrush have long-term consequences if left untreated? While rare, untreated oral thrush can potentially spread to other parts of the body, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. This systemic candidiasis can be serious and may require more intensive treatment.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Oral Thrush Treatment

As our understanding of oral thrush and fungal infections continues to evolve, researchers are exploring new avenues for prevention and treatment. Some areas of ongoing research include:

• Development of new antifungal medications with improved efficacy and fewer side effects
• Investigation of natural compounds with antifungal properties
• Exploration of probiotic therapies to prevent and manage oral thrush
• Research into the role of the oral microbiome in preventing fungal overgrowth
• Studies on the potential use of immunotherapy to enhance the body’s natural defenses against Candida

What potential breakthroughs might we see in oral thrush treatment in the coming years? While it’s difficult to predict specific breakthroughs, advancements in our understanding of the microbiome and the development of targeted therapies may lead to more personalized and effective treatments for oral thrush in the future.

Debunking Common Myths About Oral Thrush

There are several misconceptions surrounding oral thrush that can lead to confusion and improper management of the condition. Let’s address some of these myths:

Myth 1: Oral thrush only affects babies and the elderly

While oral thrush is more common in these age groups, it can affect individuals of any age, especially those with compromised immune systems or certain risk factors.

Myth 2: Oral thrush is always a sign of a serious underlying condition

While oral thrush can sometimes indicate an underlying health issue, it’s often a localized infection that can be effectively treated without indicating a more serious condition.

Myth 3: You can catch oral thrush from kissing someone

While Candida can be passed between individuals, simply kissing someone with oral thrush doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll develop the infection. The development of thrush depends on various factors, including your own oral environment and immune system.

Myth 4: Once you’ve had oral thrush, you’ll keep getting it

While recurrent oral thrush can occur, especially in individuals with certain risk factors, many people successfully treat the infection and don’t experience recurrences.

Why is it important to dispel these myths about oral thrush? Addressing these misconceptions can help individuals better understand the condition, seek appropriate treatment when necessary, and avoid unnecessary anxiety about the implications of oral thrush.

Lifestyle Modifications to Support Oral Health and Prevent Thrush

In addition to medical treatments, certain lifestyle modifications can help support overall oral health and reduce the risk of developing oral thrush:

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support immune function
• Stay hydrated to promote saliva production, which helps control oral bacteria and fungi
• Avoid excessive use of mouthwashes or oral sprays that may disrupt the natural balance of microorganisms in the mouth
• If you use corticosteroid inhalers, rinse your mouth thoroughly after each use
• Manage stress levels, as chronic stress can weaken the immune system
• Get regular dental check-ups to maintain good oral health
• If you wear dentures, ensure they fit properly and clean them thoroughly each day

How effective are these lifestyle modifications in preventing oral thrush? While these measures can significantly reduce the risk of developing oral thrush, they may not completely prevent it, especially in individuals with certain risk factors. However, incorporating these habits into your daily routine can contribute to better overall oral health and potentially reduce the frequency and severity of oral thrush infections.

The Role of Oral Hygiene Products in Managing Oral Thrush

Proper selection and use of oral hygiene products can play a crucial role in managing and preventing oral thrush. Consider the following recommendations:

Toothbrushes

Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush and replace it regularly, especially after an oral thrush infection. Consider using an electric toothbrush for more effective cleaning.

Toothpaste

Opt for fluoride toothpaste without harsh abrasives. Some individuals may benefit from toothpaste containing xylitol, which may help inhibit Candida growth.

Mouthwash

While antiseptic mouthwashes can be beneficial, avoid overuse as they may disrupt the natural oral flora. Consider alcohol-free options, especially during an active thrush infection.

Floss and Interdental Cleaners

Regular flossing or use of interdental cleaners is crucial for removing plaque and food particles that can contribute to fungal growth.

Tongue Scrapers

Gently cleaning your tongue with a tongue scraper can help remove bacteria and fungi, potentially reducing the risk of oral thrush.

Can specific oral hygiene products prevent or treat oral thrush? While no single product can prevent or cure oral thrush, using appropriate oral hygiene products as part of a comprehensive oral care routine can help maintain a healthy oral environment and potentially reduce the risk of fungal overgrowth.

Coping with Oral Thrush: Practical Tips for Daily Life

Living with oral thrush can be challenging, but there are several practical strategies to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life during treatment:

• Opt for soft, non-acidic foods that are easy to swallow if you’re experiencing mouth pain
• Use a straw when drinking to minimize contact between liquids and affected areas of the mouth
• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day to soothe discomfort
• Apply over-the-counter oral analgesic gels to alleviate pain
• Stay hydrated to prevent dry mouth, which can exacerbate symptoms
• If you’re a smoker, consider quitting or reducing tobacco use during treatment
• Practice good hand hygiene to prevent spreading the infection to other parts of your body or to others

How can you manage the emotional impact of oral thrush? Dealing with oral thrush can be frustrating and sometimes embarrassing. Don’t hesitate to discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider or seek support from friends and family. Remember that oral thrush is a common condition that can be effectively managed with proper care and treatment.

In conclusion, oral thrush is a manageable fungal infection that, while uncomfortable, can be effectively treated with proper care and medical intervention when necessary. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options, individuals can take proactive steps to prevent and manage oral thrush, maintaining good oral health and overall well-being. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment, especially if symptoms persist or worsen despite home care measures.

What to Do and When to See a Doctor

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

Medically Reviewed by Robert Brennan on April 02, 2023

• Remedies and Treatments for Oral Thrush
• When to See Your Doctor

Oral thrush is a fungal infection in your mouth, throat, or esophagus. It occurs when Candida a fungus, that’s found in your mouth and digestive tract, multiplies. White patches similar to a rash appear in the mouth, on the tongue and cheeks, and in the throat. 

Anyone can develop thrush. Candida, or yeast, is responsible for diaper rash as well as vaginal yeast infections in women. Oral thrush is most common in babies, toddlers, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. 

Oral Thrush Symptoms in Adults 

Oral Thrush has different symptoms depending on your age and the type of infection, including: 

• White, rash-like patches on the tongue, cheeks, upper mouth, tonsils, and throat
• A dry sensation, or cotton-like feeling in your mouth
• Loss of taste
• Raised red spots similar to cottage cheese 
• Redness and cracking around your mouth

If the yeast overgrowth has traveled to your esophagus, you may experience throat pain and have trouble swallowing. People who smoke or wear dentures are also more prone to developing oral thrush. 

Oral Thrush Symptoms in Infants And Mothers

If your child has oral thrush, you’ll see the same thick, white patches on the tongue as well as in the mouth and throat. Other symptoms of this condition in babies include: 

• A sore mouth
• Decreased sucking when breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, which results in consuming less milk
• White coating on the tongue
• Sensitive, cracked, or sore nipples if you’re breastfeeding

Oral thrush clears up within a few weeks with the proper antifungal treatment. The condition may be harder to treat if you have a weakened immune system from HIV infection, cancer, or diabetes.

Immediate Treatment

Treatment is designed to stop the fungus from spreading, but it’s also important to determine the infection’s underlying causes. This can prevent future infections and keep yeast under control.  

Take care of your teeth by brushing and flossing at least twice a day. Don’t share your toothbrush with anyone and replace it often until the infection clears. If you wear dentures, disinfect them as fungus-covered dentures can lead to reinfection. Talk to your dentist to determine the best way to clean your appliances. 

If oral thrush is developed while breastfeeding, place pads on your breasts to prevent the infection from spreading to your clothing. Avoid pads with plastic barriers, which can cause yeast to grow. Wear a clean bra every day and talk to your doctor to determine how to clean bottles, pacifiers, and breast pumps if you use one.

If you have a mild case of oral thrush after a course of antibiotics, consider eating yogurt or taking an over-the-counter (OTC) acidophilus pill. Probiotics help repopulate the “good” bacteria in your body. 

Long-Term Treatment

Severe cases of thrush are usually treated with antifungal medications. They’re available as tablets, lozenges, or liquids that you swish around in your mouth before swallowing. Common medications include: 

• Antifungal mouthwash (nystatin)
• Lozenges (clotrimazole) 
• Antifungal medicines like fluconazole (Diflucan) or itraconazole (Sporanox). These are taken in tablet or liquid form. 

The course of treatment depends on your age and the cause of the fungal infection. A course of medication lasts from 10 to 14 days. 

If your immune system is uncompromised, oral thrush should resolve within two weeks. If you are immunocompromised or have an underlying medical condition, call your doctor. Here are some symptoms that may be warning signs:

• Thrush-like sores that don’t go away
• Difficulty or pain when swallowing
• Thrush symptoms with an underlying medical condition, like HIV

If you suspect your child has oral thrush, seek medical care if they:

• Are dehydrated
• Haven’t urinated in more than eight hours
• Have dark urine and a dry mouth
• Bleeding sores in the mouth
• Look or act very sick.

A Candida infection may be an indication of other diseases or medical problems. Talk to your doctor to set up any additional treatment plans.

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Symptoms, Causes, Treatments, and Prevention

Thrush is a yeast (fungus) infection that commonly occurs in the mouths of babies and toddlers. It’s rarely serious but can pass between babies and nursing parents.

It’s typical for a small amount of fungus to live in your mouth. But in some cases, the fungus may rapidly multiply and lead to a yeast infection.

Oral thrush happens when this type of yeast infection develops inside your mouth. It’s also known as oral candidiasis, oropharyngeal candidiasis, or simply thrush.

Oral thrush is more common in babies and older adults, who tend to have weaker immune systems. But it can occur at any age.

Read on to learn about oral thrush, what it can look like, who it affects, what causes it, and how it’s treated.

In its early stages, oral thrush may not cause any symptoms. But as the infection gets worse, one or more of the following symptoms may develop:

• white or yellow spots on your inner cheeks, tongue, tonsils, gums, or lips
• slight bleeding if the spots are scraped
• soreness or burning in your mouth
• a cotton-like sensation in your mouth
• dry, cracked skin at the corners of your mouth
• difficulty swallowing
• a bad taste in your mouth
• a loss of taste
• redness, irritation, and pain under dentures (denture stomatitis)

In some cases, oral thrush can affect your esophagus, though this is uncommon. The same fungus that causes oral thrush can also cause yeast infections in other parts of your body.

Learn more about the symptoms of oral thrush.

What are the symptoms of oral thrush in babies?

Oral thrush most often affects infants and toddlers. About 65% of infants have Candida albicans (C. albicans). fungus in their mouths. About 5-7% of babies under one month old will develop the infection.

Babies can contract the fungus from their birthing parent during pregnancy, delivery, or nursing or just from yeast that is naturally present in their environment.

If your baby has oral thrush, it may develop the same signs and symptoms that can affect adults with the condition. It may also cause difficulty feeding and irritability or fussiness.

Read more about thrush in babies, as well as thrush and breastfeeding or chestfeeding.

Oral thrush and other yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of C. albicans. It exists naturally in the microbiomes of 50% of the population.

It’s typical for a small amount of C. albicans to live in your mouth without causing harm. When your immune system is working properly, beneficial bacteria in your body help keep C. albicans under control.

But if your immune system is compromised or the balance of microorganisms in your body is disrupted, the fungus can grow out of control.

Oral thrush is the most common opportunistic infection in people living with HIV. It can also develop with other conditions or medications that weaken your immune system, such as:

• cancer treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy
• cancer like leukemia
• uncontrolled diabetes

Other risk factors include:

• being a baby or older adult
• having a condition that causes dry mouth
• taking corticosteroids, or immunosuppressant drugs
• smoking
• wearing dentures
• taking antibiotics

If your immune system is weakened, you’re more likely to develop complications from thrush.

Without proper treatment, the fungus that causes thrush may enter your bloodstream and spread to your heart, brain, eyes, or other body parts. This is known as invasive or systemic candidiasis.

Systemic candidiasis can cause problems in the organs it affects. It can also cause a potentially life threatening condition known as septic shock.

To treat oral thrush, your doctor may prescribe medications. These include:

• fluconazole (Diflucan)
• generic nystatin
• itraconazole (Sporanox)
• amphotericin B (AmBisome, Fungizone)

Learn more about antifungal medications.

Once you begin treatment, oral thrush usually goes away within a couple of weeks. But in some cases, it can return.

For adults who have recurring cases of oral thrush with no known cause, their healthcare professional will evaluate them for underlying medical conditions that might be contributing to thrush.

Infants may have several episodes of oral thrush in their first year of life.

In addition, your doctor may also recommend some home remedies for oral thrush.

Treatment for babies and nursing parents

If your baby develops oral thrush or you develop a breast or nipple yeast infection, your healthcare professional may advise you to do the following:

• Treat your baby with antifungal medications and apply an antifungal cream to your breasts. Make sure to wipe the cream off your breasts before nursing.
• Sterilize your baby’s pacifiers, teething rings, bottle nipples, breast pump pieces, and any other items they put in their mouth.
• Keep your nipples clean and dry between feedings. If you use nursing pads, avoid those that have a plastic liner, which may trap moisture and create favorable conditions for fungus to grow.

Your doctor may be able to diagnose oral thrush simply by taking a history of your symptoms and examining your mouth for the characteristic lesions that it causes.

They may do a biopsy of the affected area to confirm the diagnosis. They may also do a throat swab culture or endoscopy to see if you have a fungal infection in your throat or esophagus.

If you need help finding a primary care doctor, then check out our FindCare tool.

To reduce your risk of oral thrush, try the following:

• Avoid sharing cups and utensils with others.
• Eat a nutritious diet and practice an overall healthy lifestyle to support the functioning of your immune system.
• Practice good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing every day, and visiting your dentist on a regular basis.
• If your mouth is chronically dry, make an appointment with your doctor and follow their recommended treatment plan.
• If you have dentures, remove them before you go to bed, clean them daily, and ensure they fit properly.
• If you have a corticosteroid inhaler, rinse out your mouth or brush your teeth after using it.
• If you have diabetes, take steps to manage your blood sugar levels.

If you develop a yeast infection in another part of your body other than your mouth, get treatment. In some cases, an infection can spread from one part of your body to another.

Get more tips for managing the risk of yeast infection while breastfeeding or chestfeeding.

Is oral thrush contagious?

Transmission of oral thrush can occur via:

• kissing
• contact with yeast infections in other body parts
• vaginal sex, anal sex, or oral sex
• breastfeeding or chestfeeding when you have a breast yeast infection or nipple yeast infection
• breastfeeding or chestfeeding when your baby has oral thrush

Though C. albicans can pass from one person to another, it doesn’t always cause infection. Also, developing an infection may not mean that you contracted it from someone else, as C. albicans is so common in our environment.

Learn more about how you get thrush.

What should I eat with oral thrush?

Some studies suggest that eating certain probiotic foods or taking probiotic supplements might help limit the growth of C. albicans. However, more research is needed in this area.

Some people believe that limiting or avoiding certain foods may also help curb the growth of C. albicans. The “candida diet” has been developed based on these beliefs. However, this diet lacks scientific support.

It’s a good idea to speak with your doctor or your child’s pediatrician before beginning any supplement of making any dietary changes.

Oral thrush is a yeast infection in the mouth. It most often affects babies but can also occur in adults. Fungi normally live in our mouths, but rapid multiplication can cause an infection.

This is more likely to occur in those with weaker immune systems, but anyone can develop it. If you or your baby develop oral thrush, there are home remedies and medical treatments that can help. It’s usually not a serious infection, but in rare cases can lead to a life threatening blood infection.

symptoms of oral candidiasis, treatment of stomatitis in adults with drugs and a dentist

Candidiasis or thrush is a common infectious disease caused by yeast-like fungi. Often develops in the oral mucosa. It doesn’t matter how old you are. The problem occurs at any age. Pathology is caused by a fungus of the genus Candida. Plaques appear on the mucous membrane. The formations have a curdled mass. Patients experience burning and other discomfort. Chewing food causes discomfort. Feeling sore when talking. Unpleasant smell, dryness and pain require immediate medical attention.

Thrush is also common in children. They develop candidal glossitis. The disease manifests itself in children. Pathology affects people who wear dentures. The reason is not that important. The disease must be eliminated. Requires surgical treatment. Don’t put off visiting the clinic. An accurate diagnosis is required.

Causes

An unpleasant pathology is a dangerous infection. It occurs in people of all ages. It can overtake a child, a teenager, an adult. The disease often occurs with a weakened immune system. Love proper nutrition and do not deny yourself vitamins? What a score! Your body is able to prevent the occurrence of thrush.

The disease occurs as a result of the development of fungi. The occurrence of pathology is influenced by various factors. Yeast fungi are found in the body of every person. Under the influence of reasons, their uncontrolled reproduction begins. Don’t want to suffer from a complex illness? Eliminate the factors that cause pathology.

Thrush is caused by:

• Hormonal changes. With hormonal changes, it is difficult for the body to respond to the development of bacteria. For example, during pregnancy. Women often develop vaginal thrush.
• Medicinal preparations. The mouth contains different types of microorganisms. They hold back each other’s growth. Antibiotics kill some bacteria. The composition of the microflora is disturbed.
• Weak immunity. It is difficult for a weakened body to fight dangerous bacteria. The number of fungi is increasing. The thrush appears.
• Improper hygiene. The accumulation of germs often leads to problems. The thrush appears.
• High carbohydrate foods. Glucose, sucrose and galactose enhance the growth of Candida. Monitor the quality of food. Excessive sugar increases the likelihood of thrush.
• Diet. Malnutrition provokes the development of many diseases. With diets, there is a lack of iron and other vitamins. The possibility of the appearance of the disease increases.
• Mucosal injury. Injuries reduce barrier properties. It is easier for fungi to penetrate deep into.
• Smoking. The microflora is deteriorating. Diseases develop.
• Contraceptives. Such drugs contain progestin, estrogen. Elements increase the concentration of glucose in the blood. The growth of Candida fungi is accelerated.
• Removable dentures. Bacteria can accumulate on the denture. It is important to disinfect frequently.

Candidiasis is contagious. Bacteria are easily transmitted through kisses, shared towels, dishes.

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Symptoms

Symptoms of thrush:

• white, red spots and plaques;
• dry;
• burning sensation.

Candidiasis can be confused with many diseases. Avoid self-medication. At the first sign, consult a doctor. The dentist-therapist will conduct an examination. Schedules tests. Eliminate pathology.

Species

Symptoms and course depend on the form of the disease. There are several different types of candidiasis.

Acute pseudomembranous

This form of pathology has no pronounced symptoms. Acute candidiasis can cause mild discomfort. White plaques and plaque rise above the mucosa. The person is uncomfortable. At the initial stage, single plaques are removed with scraping. After you can see the mucous membrane of a bright red color. Fungal disease is not always mild.

Severe course causes more discomfort in the oral cavity. The sizes of plaques increase. They begin to merge with each other. Gradually, the entire mucosal cavity is affected. The plaques thicken. Removing them is more difficult. This type of pathology is often found in infants. May appear in adults after taking antibiotics or other strong drugs. It often worries patients who have a violation of the immune status. For example, as a result of HIV or leukemia.

Acute and chronic atrophic

Acute atrophic candidiasis causes extreme discomfort. The mucous membranes seem to have been burned by the hot liquid. Plaques and white plaque are absent. The mucosa acquires a pronounced red color. On the tongue there are traces of dental units. The patient may experience an acidic, metallic, bitter, or salty taste in the mouth. Feeling dry more often. Pathology occurs after taking antibiotics and other drugs.

Chronic candidiasis causes no less discomfort. There are redness in the mucosal area. Also worried about the burning sensation. On the back of the mucous membrane of the tongue, papillae may atrophy. Taste sensations change. Pathology occurs in patients who wear removable dentures. Therefore, the disease is often called prosthetic stomatitis.

Chronic hyperplastic

Mainly occurs in adult patients. This is the rarest type of candidiasis. Often develops on the buccal mucosa. May appear around the corners of the mouth. Skin lesions cause discomfort. Also appears on the soft palate and back of the tongue. White plaques gradually grow. In the absence of treatment, they merge. Gradually acquire a yellowish tint. In a pronounced degree, the plaques become more nodular and coarse.

This candidiasis is not easy to remove. Scraping plaques will not work. You can notice a change in the composition of saliva. It becomes more viscous, foamy. Often the pathology occurs in smoking men. Clinical studies have helped to discover that this type of candidiasis can transform into oncology. Therefore, pathology can be regarded as a precancerous disease.

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Treatment

Candidiasis requires immediate treatment. An accurate diagnosis should be made. A biopsy may be performed. Histological examination is often prescribed. A swab may be taken from the affected area. This is required for microscopic examination. If a pathology is suspected, the doctor prescribes laboratory tests. It is recommended to take blood tests for glucose or HIV. Rent bacteriological culture. The study will help identify a fungal disease. Sowing will determine the type of fungus that caused the appearance of thrush. Accurate diagnosis will allow you to prescribe effective drugs.

Consultation with more specialized specialists is recommended. An endocrinologist will help make sure that there are no endocrine diseases. The allergist will check the sensitivity to prosthetic devices. The therapist will determine the nature of the pathology.

Treatment includes the following steps:

• Sanitation. All dental pathologies are treated. The dentist eliminates carious lesions, installs fillings. Tooth deposits are removed. Teeth are cleaned of plaque.
• Elimination of pathologies. Exacerbations of diseases are stopped. The hormonal background is being adjusted. Increases immunity. Dentures that cause allergic reactions are replaced.
• Prescribing drugs. The doctor prescribes medicines. Antifungal medications are prescribed. Antihistamines, immunomodulators, restorative drugs may be prescribed.

The treatment is carried out in a complex manner. Includes measures to strengthen the immune system. The doctor teaches proper oral hygiene. A change in diet is recommended. Bad habits should be eliminated. Smoking will quickly lead to recurrence. The doctor gives recommendations that will help prevent relapses.

Preparations

Candidiasis cannot be cured without effective medications. Manufacturers produce different products. They can eliminate the pathology quickly enough. Comprehensively affect the problem. Only a doctor can prescribe the most effective remedies. The doctor examines the signs. Performs diagnostics. Then he prescribes drugs.

Doctors prescribe:

• Suspensions (Amphotericin B, Diflucan). Effective in severe forms of thrush. High-quality suspensions gently affect the manifestations and cause of the disease.
• Tablets (Itriconazole, Nystatin or others). The dosage is determined according to age. Most drugs are sold by prescription only.
• Gels (Miconazole). They are used as applications on the mucous membrane.
• Antiseptics (Miramistin, Chlorhexidine). Complementary Therapy. Used for rinsing.

Medicines and aids prescribed by a doctor. It is not worth making a decision about taking medications on your own. You can make health problems worse. It is necessary to take drugs in accordance with the prescribed treatment plan. The infection will pass.

Prevention

After treatment, prevention is important. With a mild form of thrush, relapses do not occur. The average degree of the course of the disease can be repeated. A severe form can turn into a chronic condition. Complications are possible. Relapses occur for a number of reasons. For example, do not follow the doctor’s prescriptions. Immunodeficiency and diabetes mellitus lead to repeated pathologies. Illiterate treatment leads to the development of the disease. Don’t want complications? Contact experienced doctors. Don’t forget about prevention.

Brush your teeth properly. You can not damage the mucous membrane. After eating, it is recommended to rinse the mouth. For this, special tools are used. A dentist can help in choosing the composition. Do not use one toothbrush for a long time. It needs to be changed every 2-3 months. The brush must be washed thoroughly after each use.

Wear removable dentures? Wash them after eating. Store your dentures in a case. Don’t throw them anywhere. Microbes can get on dentures.

Bad habits cause many diseases. Smoking, alcoholic beverages adversely affect the microflora. Harmful bacteria spread faster. Increase your vitamins. Strong immunity is less likely to be influenced by harmful factors. The body will fight dangerous bacteria.

When treating pathologies with antibiotics, probiotics should be taken. Antifungal drugs are also recommended. Antibiotics kill beneficial bacteria. They need to be replenished. Take vitamin complexes. Visit the dentist’s office at least once every 6 months. The doctor will conduct an examination. The doctor will clean up. Pathologies should be treated.

Treating candidiasis is a complex process. Often a local approach is not enough. After a thorough examination, effective methods are selected. The PROPRIKUS clinic employs doctors you can trust. New methods quickly reveal the disease. Doctors will help to cope with the problem. You will forget about pathology. Bring back your normal quality of life. Stop feeling uncomfortable.

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Tolova Saida Arturovna

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Thrush in the mouth in adults: symptoms, treatment – ROOTT

Causes Types Danger Treatment Remedial measures Drugs against thrush

Oral candidiasis (thrush) is an infectious disease of the mucous membranes. It is caused by a fungus of the genus Candida.

Mucous membranes are covered with whitish plaques resembling curd mass. Patients have unpleasant sensations in the mouth, a burning sensation. Eating, sometimes even speaking, becomes painful. Patients complain of dry mouth and bad breath.

Thrush is very common in infants but is easily tolerated and heals quickly. It often occurs in people with dentures, those taking corticosteroids, or undergoing chemotherapy.

Causes of disease

Yeast fungi are present in the body of any person. Under the influence of certain factors, they begin to multiply uncontrollably.

Thrush in the mouth is caused by:

• Hormonal changes, e.g. during pregnancy
• Taking certain medications
• Weakening of immunity due to illness
• Inadequate oral hygiene
• Mucosal injuries
• High carbohydrate diet
• Taking contraceptives
• Smoking
• Candidiasis is contagious, it can be transmitted through shared utensils, kissing.

Classification

Symptoms of thrush manifest themselves in different ways, depending on the form of the disease. In dentistry, the following forms of candidiasis are distinguished:

1. Acute pseudomembranous
   – Mild form: the only symptom is the presence of plaque. If you scrape it off, a swollen, reddened mucous membrane is visible.
   – Moderate: plaque is difficult to remove, there are unpleasant sensations while eating. The submandibular lymph nodes are enlarged.
   – Severe form: extensive, off-white plaque. Signs of tissue infiltration. Plaques are removed with difficulty, bleeding mucous membrane is visible under them.
2. Acute atrophic
   Mucosa red, painful to touch, smooth. The plaque is dense, covers the cheeks from the inside, tongue, palate. The mouth is dry. There are teeth marks on the tongue. There may be a bitter, sour, metallic taste in the mouth. The acute course can become chronic, usually in patients with removable dentures. Therefore, its second name is prosthetic stomatitis. Under the prosthesis, the mucous membrane is dry, red. There is almost no plaque, but the pain syndrome is pronounced. On the back of the tongue papillae atrophy. This leads to a change in taste sensations.
   Sometimes atrophic candidiasis is called erythematous (“erythema” – redness).
3. Chronic hyperplastic
   It occurs only in adults, mainly in smokers. The coating is dirty gray, located in the corners of the lips, on the tongue. It scrapes off badly, has an unpleasant smell. The plaques merge, covering the mucosa almost completely. Saliva changes: it becomes viscous and foams. The most common such thrush in men.

Why is thrush dangerous? But candida is a yeast-like fungus, and, therefore, is capable of rapid reproduction, like any yeast. From the mucous membranes of the mouth, thrush can spread to the throat. This causes changes in the voice, makes it hoarse. Spreading to the esophagus, it provokes inflammation of the esophageal mucosa (esophagitis), making it painful for food to pass through it.

Untreated hyperplastic candidiasis develops into malignant neoplasms.

Most importantly, the reproduction of the fungus indicates a malfunction in the body’s defenses.

Only a doctor is able to prescribe the necessary examination and, based on its results, prescribe the appropriate treatment for a fungal infection.

How to treat thrush

Successful treatment requires an accurate diagnosis. For this, a number of laboratory tests are prescribed. Bacteriological culture is mandatory. He will not only confirm the thrush, but also determine which type of fungus caused it. This is important when prescribing drugs. After a clinical examination, the dentist may recommend blood glucose or HIV testing.

Recommended consultations with narrow specialists:

• Endocrinologist
  To make sure there are no endocrine disorders.
• Allergist
  To detect sensitivity to dentures.
• Therapist
  To clarify the nature of somatic diseases.

Treatment of thrush in adults and children should be comprehensive and include activities aimed at strengthening general immunity, teaching adequate oral hygiene, and changing the diet.

Algorithm of therapeutic measures

• For the best result, the intervention begins with the sanitation of the oral cavity. Carious teeth are treated by replacing the affected tissues with filling material. Remove hard plaque and tartar from enamel. Plaque is a hotbed of infection, it is necessary to get rid of it.
• Eliminate factors that provoke candidiasis. Replace dentures if they cause an allergic reaction or do not fit well. Stop the exacerbation of common diseases. Take steps to improve your hormone levels. Conduct activities that increase immunity.
• Administer antifungals based on culture results. Prescribed antihistamines, restorative agents, immunomodulators.
• Give recommendations on the normalization of the microflora in the oral cavity.