What are the main causes of oral thrush. How can you identify oral thrush symptoms. What are the most effective treatments for oral candidiasis. How does oral thrush affect different populations. What home remedies can help manage oral thrush symptoms.

Understanding Oral Thrush: A Comprehensive Overview

Oral thrush, medically known as oral candidiasis, is a yeast infection that affects the mouth. This condition is primarily caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans, although other Candida species such as C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, and C. krusei can also be responsible. While oral thrush is generally not serious for most individuals, it can pose significant problems for those with weakened immune systems.

What causes oral thrush?

The primary culprit behind oral thrush is an imbalance in the mouth’s natural microbiome, allowing Candida fungi to proliferate unchecked. Several factors can contribute to this imbalance:

• Weakened immune system
• Use of broad-spectrum antibiotics
• Poor oral hygiene
• Dry mouth conditions
• Inhaled corticosteroid use
• Smoking
• Diabetes

Recognizing the Symptoms of Oral Thrush

Identifying oral thrush early is crucial for effective treatment. The symptoms can vary in severity and presentation, depending on the individual and the extent of the infection.

What are the common signs of oral thrush?

Oral thrush typically manifests with the following symptoms:

• White or cream-colored deposits on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, or throat
• Redness or soreness in the affected areas
• A cottony feeling in the mouth
• Loss of taste or an unpleasant taste
• Difficulty swallowing (in severe cases)
• Cracking at the corners of the mouth (angular cheilitis)

In some cases, the white patches may become larger and take on a grayish or yellowish hue. If these patches are scraped, they may bleed slightly, revealing a raw, red area underneath.

Diagnosing Oral Thrush: Clinical Presentations and Classifications

Healthcare professionals typically diagnose oral thrush through a combination of visual examination and patient history. In some cases, they may take a sample of the affected area for laboratory analysis to confirm the diagnosis and identify the specific Candida species involved.

How do medical professionals classify oral thrush?

According to a 2015 review, oral thrush can be classified into three main categories based on its appearance:

1. Pseudomembranous: Characterized by white to whitish-yellow plaques resembling cottage cheese on the tongue and oral mucosa.
2. Erythematous (atrophic): Presents as red, raw-looking patches in the mouth.
3. Hyperplastic: Also known as “plaque-like candidiasis” or “nodular candidiasis,” this variant features hard-to-remove, solid white plaques.

It’s important to note that some cases may exhibit characteristics of multiple categories, making classification less straightforward.

Treatment Options for Oral Thrush

The treatment approach for oral thrush depends on the severity of the infection and the overall health of the patient. In most cases, antifungal medications are the primary form of treatment.

What are the most common antifungal treatments for oral thrush?

Healthcare providers typically prescribe the following antifungal medications:

• Nystatin: Available as a suspension or pastilles
• Miconazole: Administered as a gel or lozenges
• Clotrimazole: Used as troches (lozenges)
• Fluconazole: Taken orally in tablet form

The choice of medication and duration of treatment depend on the severity of the infection and the patient’s response to therapy.

How are different severities of oral thrush treated?

According to a 2021 article, treatment regimens are typically as follows:

• Mild cases: 10 mg clotrimazole troche five times daily or 5 mL nystatin oral suspension four times daily
• Moderate to severe cases: 200 mg fluconazole once, followed by 100 mg daily for 7-14 days
• Refractory cases: Alternative antifungals such as itraconazole, posaconazole, or voriconazole may be prescribed

Home Remedies and Supportive Care for Oral Thrush

While medical treatment is essential for resolving oral thrush, several home remedies and supportive measures can help manage symptoms and prevent recurrence.

What home remedies can help alleviate oral thrush symptoms?

Consider the following supportive measures:

• Saltwater rinses: Gargling with warm salt water can help soothe discomfort and promote healing
• Proper oral hygiene: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and replace it daily until the infection clears
• Probiotic yogurt: Consuming unsweetened yogurt may help restore beneficial bacteria in the mouth
• Avoiding irritants: Steer clear of mouthwashes and sprays that may exacerbate symptoms

These measures can complement medical treatment and help manage discomfort associated with oral thrush.

Preventing Oral Thrush: Risk Factors and Precautions

Understanding the risk factors for oral thrush can help individuals take proactive steps to prevent infection or recurrence.

What are the main risk factors for developing oral thrush?

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing oral thrush:

• Weakened immune system (e.g., due to HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy, or certain medications)
• Diabetes, especially when poorly controlled
• Use of inhaled corticosteroids
• Wearing dentures, particularly if not cleaned properly
• Smoking
• Dry mouth conditions
• Poor nutrition or vitamin deficiencies

How can individuals reduce their risk of oral thrush?

To minimize the risk of developing oral thrush, consider the following precautions:

• Maintain good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing
• Clean and disinfect dentures daily
• Rinse your mouth after using inhaled corticosteroids
• Manage underlying health conditions, such as diabetes
• Quit smoking
• Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals
• Stay hydrated to prevent dry mouth

Oral Thrush in Special Populations: Infants and Immunocompromised Individuals

Oral thrush can affect individuals of all ages, but certain populations may be more susceptible or experience more severe symptoms.

How does oral thrush present in infants?

In babies, oral thrush typically appears as a white coating on the tongue, resembling cottage cheese. Unlike milk residue, this coating cannot be easily wiped off. If a caregiver attempts to scrape the coating, it may reveal a red, irritated area underneath.

Infants with oral thrush may experience:

• Difficulty feeding
• Fussiness or irritability
• White patches on the inner cheeks, gums, or tongue

What challenges do immunocompromised individuals face with oral thrush?

For people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy, oral thrush can be more severe and difficult to treat. These individuals may experience:

• More extensive and persistent infections
• Higher risk of systemic candidiasis (spread of infection to other parts of the body)
• Increased likelihood of developing drug-resistant strains of Candida
• Need for longer treatment courses or alternative antifungal medications

Healthcare providers must carefully monitor immunocompromised patients with oral thrush and may need to adjust treatment strategies accordingly.

Complications and Associated Conditions of Oral Thrush

While oral thrush is generally a localized infection, it can sometimes lead to complications or be associated with other oral health issues.

What potential complications can arise from oral thrush?

In some cases, oral thrush may lead to:

• Esophageal candidiasis: Spread of the infection to the esophagus, causing difficulty swallowing
• Systemic candidiasis: In severe cases, particularly in immunocompromised individuals, the infection may spread to other parts of the body
• Nutritional deficiencies: Persistent oral thrush can interfere with eating and drinking, potentially leading to malnutrition

What other conditions are commonly associated with oral thrush?

Several conditions may co-occur with or predispose individuals to oral thrush:

• Denture stomatitis: Inflammation of the oral tissues beneath dentures, affecting 50-65% of denture wearers
• Angular cheilitis: Inflammation and cracking at the corners of the mouth
• Median rhomboid glossitis: A smooth, red, diamond-shaped lesion on the middle of the tongue
• Chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis: A rare condition characterized by persistent candidal infections of the skin, nails, and mucous membranes

Recognizing these associated conditions can help healthcare providers develop comprehensive treatment plans for patients with oral thrush.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Oral Thrush Management

As our understanding of oral thrush and Candida infections continues to evolve, researchers are exploring new avenues for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

What are some promising areas of research in oral thrush management?

Current and future research directions include:

• Novel antifungal agents: Development of new medications with improved efficacy and reduced risk of resistance
• Probiotic therapies: Investigation of specific probiotic strains that may help prevent or treat oral thrush
• Immunomodulatory approaches: Exploring ways to enhance the body’s natural defenses against Candida overgrowth
• Rapid diagnostic techniques: Development of faster, more accurate methods for identifying Candida species and antifungal susceptibility
• Personalized treatment strategies: Tailoring therapies based on individual risk factors, microbiome composition, and genetic predisposition

These research efforts aim to improve outcomes for patients with oral thrush and reduce the burden of Candida infections in various populations.

How might future treatments for oral thrush differ from current approaches?

Future treatments for oral thrush may incorporate:

• Targeted antifungal delivery systems: Developing methods to deliver medications directly to affected areas for improved efficacy and reduced systemic side effects
• Combination therapies: Exploring synergistic effects of multiple antifungal agents or combining antifungals with immunomodulators
• Microbiome manipulation: Leveraging the oral microbiome to create an environment less favorable for Candida overgrowth
• Nanotechnology: Utilizing nanoparticles for enhanced drug delivery and antifungal efficacy
• Gene therapy: Investigating potential genetic interventions to boost natural antifungal defenses

As research progresses, these innovative approaches may lead to more effective, personalized treatments for oral thrush, particularly for challenging cases and high-risk populations.

Treatments, symptoms, pictures, and contagiousness

Oral thrush, also known as oral candidiasis, is a yeast infection that can affect the mouth. Symptoms include a white or yellow buildup on the tongue, an unpleasant taste, and discomfort. Home and medical remedies can treat it.

Oral thrush most commonly occurs due to the fungus Candida albicans. However, the following can also cause the infection:

• Candida glabrata
• Candida tropicalis
• Candida krusei

For the majority of individuals, oral thrush does not cause any serious problems. However, if a person has a weakened immune system, their signs and symptoms may be much more severe.

This article will cover all aspects of oral thrush, including the causes, symptoms, and treatment.

Doctors will usually prescribe anti-fungal medications, such as nystatin or miconazole, in the form of drops, gel, or lozenges.

Alternatively, a doctor may prescribe a topical oral suspension. To take this treatment, a person washes it around their mouth for a few minutes and then swallows or spits out the solution (depending on the formulation).

According to a 2021 article, a healthcare professional will prescribe the following treatment options based on the severity of the condition:

• Mild oral thrush: A doctor may prescribe 10 milligrams (mg) of clotrimazole troche five times a day. A clotrimazole troche is a lozenge that a person dissolves slowly in their mouth. Another option includes 5 milliliters of nystatin oral suspension four times a day.
• Moderate to severe oral thrush: A doctor may prescribe 200mg of fluconazole once followed by 100mg once a day, for 7–14 days. A person will take this medication orally.
• Oral thrush that is not responding to treatment: Options include:
  • 200mg of Itraconzole oral solution once a day for 28 days
  • 400mg posaconzaole suspension twice a day for 3 days, followed by 400 mg once a day for 28 days
  • 200mg voriconazole twice a day for 28 days

For people who also have advanced cancer, a doctor may prescribe 150 mg of fluconazole as a single dose.

Alongside medical treatment, the following can help reduce the risk of worsening the condition:

• rinsing the mouth with salt water
• using a soft toothbrush to avoid scraping the lesions
• using a new toothbrush every day until the infection has gone
• eating unsweetened yogurt to restore healthy bacteria levels
• avoiding using mouthwashes or sprays

The National Health Service notes that the use of steroid inhalers, or corticosteroid inhalers, can increase the chance of developing oral thrush. A person can use a spacer or rinse their mouth after use to help prevent oral thrush from developing

Oral thrush in babies presents as a white coating on the tongue that resembles cottage cheese. A caregiver will not be able to rub the coating off easily. However, they will be able to scrape the coating off, leaving a red area.

Oral thrush in adults generally appears as thick, white, or cream-colored deposits on the mucous membrane of the mouth. The inside of the mouth may appear swollen and slightly red and may feature raised spots.

The white spots may join together to form larger ones, also known as plaques. These plaques may then take on a grayish or yellowish color.

Occasionally, the affected area simply becomes red and sore, with no detectable white spots.

If a person scrapes the cream or white-colored deposits, bleeding may occur.

Other symptoms include:

• cracks at the corners of the mouth
• an unpleasant taste
• pain, such as a sore tongue or gum
• difficulty eating or drinking

Individuals who wear dentures may have areas that are constantly red and swollen under their dentures. Poor oral hygiene or not taking the dentures out before going to sleep may increase the risk of oral thrush.

A 2015 reviewnotes that medical professionals sometimes divide oral thrush into three groups based on appearance, although the condition can sometimes sit between categories. The three groups are:

• Pseudomembranous: A person may develop white to whitish-yellow plaques on the tongue that resemble cottage cheese.
• Erythematous, or atrophic: The condition appears red raw rather than white.
• Hyperplastic: Also known as “plaque-like candidiasis” or “nodular candidiasis” due to the presence of a hard-to-remove, solid, white plaque. This is the least common variant and is most often present in patients with HIV.

There are a number of other lesions that can also appear with oral thrush. Sometimes, these lesions might be due to other types of bacteria that are also present in the area. These can include:

• Denture stomatitis: Healthcare professionals may also refer to this as chronic atrophic candidiasis and affects approximately 50–65% of those who wear dentures. The areas where the dentures normally sit may be inflammed. The lesions are usually asymptomatic, although a person may experience a burning sensation.
• Angular cheilitis: This is inflammation and splitting in the corners of the mouth.
• Median rhomboid glossitis: This is a large, red, painless mark in the center of the tongue.
• Linear gingival erythema: This is a band of inflammation running across the gums.
• Canker sores: These are small, shallow ulcers in the mouth.
• Leukoplakia: This is a white patch in the mouth that can appear on the tongue, gums, the inside of the cheeks, and the roof of the mouth. These patches are not painful and are irregular in shape. A person will not be able to remove the patches, unlike the patches that occur due to oral thrush.

Oral thrush is not contagious in adults.

However, thrush can pass between an infant and parent during breastfeeding or chestfeeding.

Some people may find oral thrush painful. The spots can become raised, and a person may experience discomfort and a burning sensation. In other instances, a person may develop no spots but experience a general soreness in the mouth.

If a person scrapes their spots, they may bleed and experience some mild pain.

Tiny quantities of Candida fungus exist in various parts of our body. It is present in the digestive system, skin, and mouth. Generally, these fungi cause no problems to healthy individuals.

However, people on certain medications, with reduced immune systems, or with certain medical conditions are susceptible to oral thrush when C. albicans grows out of control.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), those under 1 month of age have a higher chance of developing oral thrush.

Adult oral thrush is more likely to become a problem for the following groups:

• Dentures: People who wear dentures are at a higher risk of developing oral thrush. Especially if they do not keep them clean, they own dentures that do not fit properly, or if the person does not take them out before going to sleep.
• Antibiotics: People who are on antibiotics have a higher risk of developing oral thrush. Antibiotics may destroy the bacteria that prevent the Candida from growing out of control.
• Steroid medication: Long-term use of steroid medication can increase the risk of oral thrush.
• Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop oral thrush.
• Diabetes: People with diabetes are more likely to have oral thrush, especially if they poorly control their disease.
• Dry mouth: People with less than normal quantities of saliva, or xerostomia are more prone to oral thrush.
• Smoking: Heavy smokers are more at risk of developing oral thrush. The reasons behind this are unclear.

Other risk factors include:

• Use of steroid inhalers: One 2016 study found that those who took inhaled corticosteroid or long-acting beta-2-agonist fixed-dose combination inhalers had a higher chance of developing oral thrush, compared with those who took long-acting bronchodilators alone.
• Malnutrition: A 2015 article states that a deficiency in iron the the most common nutrient linked to the growth of candida. Other nutritional deficiencies related to an increase of oral thrush risk include:
  • vitamin A
  • magnesium
  • selenium
  • zinc
  • folic acid
  • essential fatty acids
• Prolonged hospital stays: This can increase the chance of oral thrush in newborns.
• Cancer treatments: Chemoradiation therapy for head and neck cancer can lead to mucositis, which is when the mouth becomes sore and inflamed. A 2020 study notes that Candida infection is both a result of chemo-radiation mucositis and a risk factor.

The CDC states that the doctor can look into the person’s mouth and ask some questions about symptoms to diagnose oral thrush.

The doctor may scrape some tissue from the inside of the mouth for analysis.

If the doctor believes that medication or some other underlying cause is behind the thrush, then they will attempt to deal with it accordingly. Treatments in such cases depend on the underlying cause.

Oral thrush is a fungal infection that develops on the mucous membranes of the mouth.

Common symptoms of oral thrush include thick, white, or cream-colored spots on the mucous membrane. These spots may be raised and can cause some pain and discomfort,

For most people, oral thrush does not cause serious problems. However, people with weakened immune systems may experience more severe symptoms and a higher chance of the infection spreading into the bloodstream.

Doctors can treat oral thrush with anti-fungal drugs, such as nystatin or miconazole. They may also prescribe a topical oral suspension.

Some circumstances may increase a person’s risk of developing oral thrush. These include smoking, diabetes, the use of dentures, the use of antibiotics, and a weakened immune system.

Treatments, symptoms, pictures, and contagiousness

Oral thrush, also known as oral candidiasis, is a yeast infection that can affect the mouth. Symptoms include a white or yellow buildup on the tongue, an unpleasant taste, and discomfort. Home and medical remedies can treat it.

Oral thrush most commonly occurs due to the fungus Candida albicans. However, the following can also cause the infection:

• Candida glabrata
• Candida tropicalis
• Candida krusei

For the majority of individuals, oral thrush does not cause any serious problems. However, if a person has a weakened immune system, their signs and symptoms may be much more severe.

This article will cover all aspects of oral thrush, including the causes, symptoms, and treatment.

Doctors will usually prescribe anti-fungal medications, such as nystatin or miconazole, in the form of drops, gel, or lozenges.

Alternatively, a doctor may prescribe a topical oral suspension. To take this treatment, a person washes it around their mouth for a few minutes and then swallows or spits out the solution (depending on the formulation).

According to a 2021 article, a healthcare professional will prescribe the following treatment options based on the severity of the condition:

• Mild oral thrush: A doctor may prescribe 10 milligrams (mg) of clotrimazole troche five times a day. A clotrimazole troche is a lozenge that a person dissolves slowly in their mouth. Another option includes 5 milliliters of nystatin oral suspension four times a day.
• Moderate to severe oral thrush: A doctor may prescribe 200mg of fluconazole once followed by 100mg once a day, for 7–14 days. A person will take this medication orally.
• Oral thrush that is not responding to treatment: Options include:
  • 200mg of Itraconzole oral solution once a day for 28 days
  • 400mg posaconzaole suspension twice a day for 3 days, followed by 400 mg once a day for 28 days
  • 200mg voriconazole twice a day for 28 days

For people who also have advanced cancer, a doctor may prescribe 150 mg of fluconazole as a single dose.

Alongside medical treatment, the following can help reduce the risk of worsening the condition:

• rinsing the mouth with salt water
• using a soft toothbrush to avoid scraping the lesions
• using a new toothbrush every day until the infection has gone
• eating unsweetened yogurt to restore healthy bacteria levels
• avoiding using mouthwashes or sprays

The National Health Service notes that the use of steroid inhalers, or corticosteroid inhalers, can increase the chance of developing oral thrush. A person can use a spacer or rinse their mouth after use to help prevent oral thrush from developing

Oral thrush in babies presents as a white coating on the tongue that resembles cottage cheese. A caregiver will not be able to rub the coating off easily. However, they will be able to scrape the coating off, leaving a red area.

Oral thrush in adults generally appears as thick, white, or cream-colored deposits on the mucous membrane of the mouth. The inside of the mouth may appear swollen and slightly red and may feature raised spots.

The white spots may join together to form larger ones, also known as plaques. These plaques may then take on a grayish or yellowish color.

Occasionally, the affected area simply becomes red and sore, with no detectable white spots.

If a person scrapes the cream or white-colored deposits, bleeding may occur.

Other symptoms include:

• cracks at the corners of the mouth
• an unpleasant taste
• pain, such as a sore tongue or gum
• difficulty eating or drinking

Individuals who wear dentures may have areas that are constantly red and swollen under their dentures. Poor oral hygiene or not taking the dentures out before going to sleep may increase the risk of oral thrush.

A 2015 reviewnotes that medical professionals sometimes divide oral thrush into three groups based on appearance, although the condition can sometimes sit between categories. The three groups are:

• Pseudomembranous: A person may develop white to whitish-yellow plaques on the tongue that resemble cottage cheese.
• Erythematous, or atrophic: The condition appears red raw rather than white.
• Hyperplastic: Also known as “plaque-like candidiasis” or “nodular candidiasis” due to the presence of a hard-to-remove, solid, white plaque. This is the least common variant and is most often present in patients with HIV.

There are a number of other lesions that can also appear with oral thrush. Sometimes, these lesions might be due to other types of bacteria that are also present in the area. These can include:

• Denture stomatitis: Healthcare professionals may also refer to this as chronic atrophic candidiasis and affects approximately 50–65% of those who wear dentures. The areas where the dentures normally sit may be inflammed. The lesions are usually asymptomatic, although a person may experience a burning sensation.
• Angular cheilitis: This is inflammation and splitting in the corners of the mouth.
• Median rhomboid glossitis: This is a large, red, painless mark in the center of the tongue.
• Linear gingival erythema: This is a band of inflammation running across the gums.
• Canker sores: These are small, shallow ulcers in the mouth.
• Leukoplakia: This is a white patch in the mouth that can appear on the tongue, gums, the inside of the cheeks, and the roof of the mouth. These patches are not painful and are irregular in shape. A person will not be able to remove the patches, unlike the patches that occur due to oral thrush.

Oral thrush is not contagious in adults.

However, thrush can pass between an infant and parent during breastfeeding or chestfeeding.

Some people may find oral thrush painful. The spots can become raised, and a person may experience discomfort and a burning sensation. In other instances, a person may develop no spots but experience a general soreness in the mouth.

If a person scrapes their spots, they may bleed and experience some mild pain.

Tiny quantities of Candida fungus exist in various parts of our body. It is present in the digestive system, skin, and mouth. Generally, these fungi cause no problems to healthy individuals.

However, people on certain medications, with reduced immune systems, or with certain medical conditions are susceptible to oral thrush when C. albicans grows out of control.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), those under 1 month of age have a higher chance of developing oral thrush.

Adult oral thrush is more likely to become a problem for the following groups:

• Dentures: People who wear dentures are at a higher risk of developing oral thrush. Especially if they do not keep them clean, they own dentures that do not fit properly, or if the person does not take them out before going to sleep.
• Antibiotics: People who are on antibiotics have a higher risk of developing oral thrush. Antibiotics may destroy the bacteria that prevent the Candida from growing out of control.
• Steroid medication: Long-term use of steroid medication can increase the risk of oral thrush.
• Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop oral thrush.
• Diabetes: People with diabetes are more likely to have oral thrush, especially if they poorly control their disease.
• Dry mouth: People with less than normal quantities of saliva, or xerostomia are more prone to oral thrush.
• Smoking: Heavy smokers are more at risk of developing oral thrush. The reasons behind this are unclear.

Other risk factors include:

• Use of steroid inhalers: One 2016 study found that those who took inhaled corticosteroid or long-acting beta-2-agonist fixed-dose combination inhalers had a higher chance of developing oral thrush, compared with those who took long-acting bronchodilators alone.
• Malnutrition: A 2015 article states that a deficiency in iron the the most common nutrient linked to the growth of candida. Other nutritional deficiencies related to an increase of oral thrush risk include:
  • vitamin A
  • magnesium
  • selenium
  • zinc
  • folic acid
  • essential fatty acids
• Prolonged hospital stays: This can increase the chance of oral thrush in newborns.
• Cancer treatments: Chemoradiation therapy for head and neck cancer can lead to mucositis, which is when the mouth becomes sore and inflamed. A 2020 study notes that Candida infection is both a result of chemo-radiation mucositis and a risk factor.

The CDC states that the doctor can look into the person’s mouth and ask some questions about symptoms to diagnose oral thrush.

The doctor may scrape some tissue from the inside of the mouth for analysis.

If the doctor believes that medication or some other underlying cause is behind the thrush, then they will attempt to deal with it accordingly. Treatments in such cases depend on the underlying cause.

Oral thrush is a fungal infection that develops on the mucous membranes of the mouth.

Common symptoms of oral thrush include thick, white, or cream-colored spots on the mucous membrane. These spots may be raised and can cause some pain and discomfort,

For most people, oral thrush does not cause serious problems. However, people with weakened immune systems may experience more severe symptoms and a higher chance of the infection spreading into the bloodstream.

Doctors can treat oral thrush with anti-fungal drugs, such as nystatin or miconazole. They may also prescribe a topical oral suspension.

Some circumstances may increase a person’s risk of developing oral thrush. These include smoking, diabetes, the use of dentures, the use of antibiotics, and a weakened immune system.

Mouth fungus: treatment and symptoms, prevention

Contents

• Causes and symptoms of thrush in the mouth
• Treatment of thrush in the mouth
• Treatment with traditional medicine
• Prevention of thrush in the mouth

Fungus (candidiasis or thrush) oral cavity is a disease caused by fungi of the genus Candida. Such microorganisms of the yeast type are part of a healthy microflora found on the skin, in the mucous membrane of the nasopharynx, intestines, and the female vagina. In the absence of suitable conditions for the progression of the disease, they do not appear.

Mouth fungus most commonly affects children under one year of age or people over 60 years of age. Children tolerate thrush more easily, it is easier for them to cure it. In old age, this disease is at risk for those who use dentures or have a weak immune system. According to statistics, 20% of infants and 10% of the elderly have encountered the fungus.

The fungus also develops in adults. Many men believe that this disease occurs only in women, but their opinion is erroneous. Among men, smokers are especially at risk. In both sexes, the cause is the uncontrolled intake of drugs, which harms the microflora.

Causes and symptoms of thrush in the mouth

Candida is found in the body of most people and does not harm them. But the deterioration of immunity or changes in the microflora lead to the development of the disease of the fungus of the oral cavity. The following causes contribute to the fungal infection of the oral mucosa:

• Immunodeficiency, weakening of the immune system.
• Changes in the hormonal background in pregnant women.
• Chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, consumption, AIDS, adrenal diseases.
• Antibiotics, cytostatics, hormonal drugs, use of oral contraceptives, which can disturb the natural balance of microflora.
• Excessive use of alcohol and drugs.
• Use of ill-fitting or allergenic dentures.
• Thermal burns of the oral cavity or injuries resulting from malocclusion.
• Deficiency of vitamins B, C and PP.
• Allergic to any food or drug.
• Contact with sick people: kissing, sexual intercourse, childbirth, using the things of an infected person, and contact with animals.

There are four types of fungus, each of which has its own causes.

Acute pseudomembranous candidiasis

This type of fungus is the most common. A prerequisite for its development is bronchitis, if the disease was found in a newborn or infant. An adult has a history of cancer.

The following symptoms indicate pseudomembranous candidiasis:

• Burning and dry mouth.
• Eating is accompanied by painful sensations.
• Cheesy coating on palate, cheeks or tongue.
• Edema of the affected surface (at a mild stage).
• Bloody lesions under plaque (at a severe stage).

Acute atrophic candidiasis

This form occurs immediately or after the pseudomembranous variety. The reason is side effects after taking corticosteroids or antibiotics. Symptoms:

• Feeling of dryness in the mouth, burning.
• Language paralysis.
• Increased susceptibility to irritants.
• Plaque on cheeks and tongue.
• Mucous membrane becomes bright red.
• Thinning of the mucous membrane of the cheeks and the border of the lips.
• Appearance of a jam.

Chronic hyperplastic candidiasis

Common in people who take cytostatics or antibiotics, have tuberculosis, smoke, wear dentures.

75% of patients with oral thrush suffer from this form of the disease.

This type of fungus has the following symptoms:

• Dryness of the mucosa.
• Distorted perception of taste.
• Pungent and sour food causes pain.
• Mucosal hypermeria.
• Rough grey-white coating.
• Blood damage under plaque.
• Overgrowth of receptors on the tongue.

Chronic atrophic candidiasis

Elderly people using prostheses are susceptible to it. Together with this type of disease, gastritis and diabetes mellitus are diagnosed. Symptoms:

• Dryness, itching in the mouth.
• Saliva becomes thick, viscous and stringy.
• Injury to areas of the oral cavity under prostheses.
• Atrophy of the papillae if the disease lasts for a long time.

Treatment of thrush in the mouth

Candida fungi, which are not treated in time, cause great damage to the organs and lead to serious complications. Therefore, there is a need to contact a doctor as soon as possible, who will examine the skin and nails, and also send you to pass the necessary analysis. If the affected area is limited to the mucosa, the patient will be taken care of by a dentist and a periodontist. If the fungi spread to other places, the infectious disease specialist will treat.

Treatment of fungus begins with the elimination of the factors that led to the development of the disease. If the cause is in other diseases (diabetes mellitus, leukemia, gastritis, etc.), for a start it is worth taking care of their elimination. If a child is sick with candidiasis, sanitization of his things is performed. It can be treated by general and local methods aimed at strengthening the immune system, bringing the microflora back to normal, healing wounds and suppressing pathogenic fungi.

General treatment for fungus

Treatment of fungus in the oral cavity by the general (systemic) method means taking antifungal drugs that act on the organs of the whole body. These drugs are divided into two types: antimycotics of natural origin (polyene antibiotics) and imidazoles.

Polyene antimycotics are Levorin, Natamycin, Mycoheptin, Nystatin and others. For a two-week course, medications are taken after eating four times a day. It is recommended to dissolve the preparations, which will enhance their effect. On the 5th day, changes will become noticeable: there will be less plaque, damage to the mucosa will heal. If these medicines do not help, the doctor will prescribe Amphoglucamine or Amphotericin. Method of application: two tablets (injection) a day after meals, 2 weeks.

The imidazoles are Miconazole, Ketoconazole, Sulconazole. Usually prescribed 50-100 mg every day, reception – 3 weeks. The duration of the course and dosage is calculated in accordance with the degree of neglect of the disease and the age of the patient.

Benefits and remedies to fight germs or parasites. Such drugs stop the reproduction of candida. These include:

• Diflucan. It is taken at a dose of 50-100 mg once a day for one to two weeks.
• Decamine caramel. Dissolve twice a day for two weeks.
• Nizoral tablets. 200 mg per day is prescribed for two to three weeks.
• Fluconazole. Take 200-400 mg per day.

To overcome beriberi, patients should take preparations containing iron, PP, C and B and vitamins. To get rid of an allergy to fungi, you need to consume calcium gluconate for a month. Tavegil, Diazolin, Zirtek and other antiallergic drugs are also prescribed. For accelerated recovery, a candida vaccine, Methyluracil, is used.

Local treatment of fungus in the mouth

Local (local) treatment of candidiasis involves the use of drugs that act on the oral mucosa and do not penetrate into the blood. They stop the growth of the fungus, relieve symptoms and heal damage. Such medicines are:

• Absorbable tablets Lysozyme, Lizak.
• Medicines containing iodine: Iodomarin, Iodine balance.
• Treatment of a jam of a yeast type and damage to the lips is carried out with the help of Nystatin, Levorin ointments.
• Methyl violet, magenta, ethacridine and other aniline dyes.

In addition to tablets and ointments for the treatment of fungus, mouthwash solutions are prescribed. Their action is to clean the mucosa, heal injuries, relieve redness and inflammation. You should rinse your mouth every 2-3 hours after eating, as well as at night. Treatment takes place within two weeks. If the symptoms disappear before the end of the course, the treatment of the mouth should continue until the 14th day. The following solutions are used:

• Solution of iodinol and water.
• 2% boron acid.
• 2% sodium bicarbonate.
• 2% borax.
• An antiseptic rinse can also be used.

Treatment is also carried out by excluding sour and spicy food, sweets from the patient’s menu. Competent care is necessary for the oral cavity: maintaining the health and cleanliness of the mouth, cleaning and processing prostheses.

Treatment with traditional medicine

There are many traditional medicine recipes that are as effective as those prescribed by a doctor. These include:

1. Gargling with tea or calendula solution. How to make tea: in a container with a lid, a tablespoon of flowers is steamed with a glass of hot water, the vessel is wrapped and left for an hour. It is applied 2 weeks 4-5 times a day.
2. Use the juice of viburnum, cranberries. When rinsing, it is necessary to retain the juice in the oral cavity for as long as the patient can. The duration of treatment is a month.
3. A decoction of dill seeds has bactericidal properties and helps wounds heal faster. Method of preparation: a spoonful of dill seeds is poured with half a liter of hot water, wrapped up and infused for an hour. After the broth is cooled, filtered and taken on an empty stomach, a third of a glass three times a day.
4. Rinse the mouth with onion, garlic, wormwood juice. Before the procedure, it is necessary to remove plaque from the mucosa. Treatment lasts 14-21 days.
5. It is recommended to treat the fungus with honey. You need to get rid of plaque, then dissolve a spoonful of thick honey every four hours for 3-4 weeks.
6. Oil compresses quickly inhibit the growth of the fungus and kill it. It is necessary to soak a six-layer gauze napkin with sea buckthorn, rosehip, olive, aloe oil and blot the affected area with it for 10-15 minutes, repeat for two weeks.

Prevention of oral thrush

Prevention of an adult is mainly the treatment of chronic diseases on time. It is also necessary to keep the immune system in good condition. Of great importance is the health of the oral cavity and the care of prostheses. It doesn’t hurt to use mouthwash. A healthy lifestyle is also an important factor in disease prevention. It is desirable to observe the daily routine and the correct full-fledged diet.

The child’s mother should take care of the prevention of the disease in young children. You need to observe hygiene: take a shower every day, wash your breasts before feeding. Do not take the baby’s nipple in your mouth, take a bath with him. Sometimes children get the fungus from their parents, as almost all adults carry the fungus. It is also necessary to sterilize pacifiers and crumbs. Good immunity to the child will provide products with a high content of lactic acid bacteria.

Failure to take preventive measures does not mean that fungi will begin to multiply in the oral cavity: this will be only one of the reasons. If the patient has symptoms resembling a fungus in the mouth, he should be tested and treated appropriately.

Fungal infections of the vagina in women: causes and treatment

Contents

• What are fungal diseases of the genital organs
• Causes of fungal diseases
• Risk factors
• Symptoms of fungal infections
• Treatment of fungal infections

The most common cause of female genital inflammation is a fungal infection. Fungal infection of the genital organs most often affects women of reproductive age from 21 to 40 years, its prevalence is constantly growing. Three-quarters of women experience symptoms of a vaginal fungal infection at least once in their lives ¹ . Let’s figure out which fungus affects the female genitals, why the disease occurs and how to overcome it.

What are fungal diseases of the genital organs

Various fungal infections are known to medicine, but it is the yeast-like fungus of the genus Candida that affects the genitals. Therefore, the disease is called “candidiasis” ² . Candidiasis can occur in both women and men, but women are more commonly affected ³ . Candida’s favorite habitat is the skin of the labia and vaginal mucosa ⁴ .

The genus Candida includes more than 170 species of the fungus. For effective treatment, you need to know which type caused the inflammation. Scientists have found that the infection of the vulva and vagina in 75-80% of cases causes C. albicans. In other cases, the cause of vulvovaginitis is other fungi, which, for convenience, are called non-albicans species. These include C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. krusei and others. Recently, their prevalence has increased. Non-albicans species cause recurrent vulvovaginitis, which is difficult to cure ¹ .

Causes of fungal diseases

Candida fungi are opportunistic pathogens. This means that they are part of the normal microflora of the vagina in healthy women. However, under the influence of external and internal conditions, opportunistic microbes can cause disease. It is believed that the main reason for the appearance of symptoms of vulvovaginal candidiasis is a decrease in the general and local immunity of a woman’s body ¹ .

Candidiasis develops in stages ¹ :

• the fungus attaches to the vaginal mucosa and begins to multiply rapidly;
• fungus cells overcome defense mechanisms and penetrate deep into tissues;
• fungal particles enter the blood vessels, spread through the body with the blood flow, form new lesions.

With vaginal candidiasis, infectious inflammation often affects only the surface layers of the mucosa. The fungus seeks, but cannot penetrate into the deeper layers, and the human body tries, but is not able to completely get rid of the pathogen. In this case, the infection can exist and periodically worsen over many years ¹ . The preservation of the infection is also facilitated by the fact that the inflammatory process in the vagina is rarely caused by one pathogen. In addition to the fungus, opportunistic bacteria, protozoa, sexually transmitted infections may also be present ⁵ .

Risk factors

An exacerbation of a fungal infection in the vagina occurs against the background of provoking factors.

Internal provoking factors include a decrease in immunity and changes in hormonal levels. Favorable conditions for the fungus occur during pregnancy, against the background of endocrine diseases (diabetes mellitus, thyroid pathology), allergies, pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract, lack of vitamins, when infected with sexually transmitted infections ¹ .

Of the drugs, thrush can be provoked by the long-term use of immunosuppressants, glucocorticoids, hormonal contraceptives, antibiotics, etc. ¹ Beneficial lactic acid bacteria die from antibiotics, and fungi are able to use antibacterial drugs as a source of nutrition and at the same time actively multiply ⁶ .

External factors that provoke thrush are trauma to the tissues of the vagina or conditions of high humidity ¹ :

• first sexual contact;
• wearing tight synthetic underwear;
• rinsing with a pressure shower;
• use of sprays;
• constant wearing of pads;
• the presence of an intrauterine device.

Vulvovaginal candidiasis is not a sexually transmitted infection. However, this does not exclude the sexual route of infection ³ .

Symptoms of fungal infections

Women with vulvovaginal candidiasis are most often concerned ¹ :

• an increase in the volume of secretions from the genital tract and a change in their consistency. They can be creamy, curdled, in the form of films and flakes, watery with crumbly inclusions, yellow or white with a sharp sour smell;
• intense itching in the area of ​​the labia, vagina, which leads to scratching;
• reddening of the skin of the vulva, swelling, rash and fissures on the labia;
• Painful urination due to contact of urine with inflamed skin and mucous membranes. Because of the pain, women are afraid to urinate, delay urination;
• pain and discomfort during intercourse.

With a recurrent course of candidiasis, the symptoms are not so bright: there may be no discharge, lesions are less common, mild swelling and redness. Due to chronic inflammation, the skin and mucous membranes change: areas of thickening or thinning, pigmentation, and dryness appear on them. The process can capture the inner thighs, the area around the anus. A week before menstruation, the symptoms intensify, and during menstruation they are relieved. Recurrent disease occurs in about 20% of women, with episodes of candidiasis occurring 4 or more times a year ¹ .

Treatment of fungal infections

The goal of treatment is to get rid of the pathogen. Before starting therapy, the doctor conducts a diagnosis. Usually there is enough questioning, examination and smear from the genital tract. In case of unsuccessful attempts at previous treatment, the pathogen is additionally cultured with an assessment of sensitivity to antimicrobial drugs ³ . Most cases of vulvovaginal candidiasis are amenable to topical treatment, that is, intravaginal forms of antifungals and antiseptics are used ¹ .

One of the drugs indicated for the treatment of inflammatory diseases of the vagina is Depantol ^® vaginal suppositories. Depantol ^® contains two active ingredients at once: chlorhexidine and dexpanthenol. Chlorhexidine is an antiseptic that is active against not only Candida fungi, but also concomitant infections: bacterial, protozoal, STIs. Dexpanthenol is a derivative of vitamin B ₅ . Provitamin B ₅ helps relieve inflammation and accelerate the regeneration of mucosal tissues, eliminates dryness ⁷ .

Recovery will be facilitated by continuous prevention of vulvovaginal candidiasis, which includes ¹ :

• use of barrier contraceptives;
• treatment of the underlying disease that caused the decrease in immunity;
• additional intake of antifungal agents during antibiotic treatment;
• rational wholesome nutrition;
• reduction in alcohol consumption, smoking cessation;
• observance of intimate hygiene.

For daily care of the intimate area, instead of soap, special products are suitable – for example, Defemilema ^® with antibacterial components. Defemilema ^® supports the natural microflora of the intimate area and optimal pH levels, which helps to limit the growth of opportunistic pathogens ⁸ .

14 days after the completion of treatment, even if nothing bothers you, you need to make sure that you are recovering. To do this, you need to visit a gynecologist and take a control swab from the genital tract ³ .

¹ Pestrikova T.Yu., Yurasova E.A. et al. Vulvovaginal candidiasis: a modern view of the problem. breast cancer. Mother and child No. 26 dated 01.12.2017 p. 1965-1970.

² Serov V.N., Tyutyunnik V.L. Vulvovaginal candidiasis: features of the course and principles of treatment. Pharmateka. 2005; 15:8-9.

³ Urogenital candidiasis Clinical recommendations.