Oral Thrush

Oral thrush is a fungal infection of the mouth and throat. It is sometimes called oropharyngeal candidiasis. The yeast Candida albicans is usually to blame for this condition. Oral thrush develops when a yeast that is ordinarily present in the mouth and intestines grows to unhealthy proportions for a variety of reasons.
Oral thrush symptoms often include:
- Lesions or patches on the tongue, cheeks, roof of the mouth, gums, or tonsils that are white, creamy, or slightly elevated.
- Discomfort or soreness in the afflicted regions.
- A sensation of dryness or cotton in the mouth.
- Alteration or loss of one's ability to taste.
Infants, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems due to HIV/AIDS, cancer treatment, or the use of certain drugs (antibiotics, corticosteroids, etc.) are more likely to experience oral thrush. Poorly managed diabetics and denture wearers are also at risk. Antibiotics can upset the delicate microbial balance in the body, making it easier for Candida to flourish, making those who have just taken or taken multiple courses of antibiotics especially vulnerable.
Antifungal drugs, either in the form of a topical ointment, lozenges, or an oral solution, are commonly used to treat oral thrush. Systemic antifungal medicines are sometimes administered when a fungal infection is particularly severe or when topical therapies have failed. It's crucial to stick to the treatment plan your doctor has laid out for you, and to look into any underlying health issues that could be making the infection worse.
Preventative actions can include brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, washing your mouth after using inhaled corticosteroids, and keeping your blood sugar under control, among other things. Getting checked out by a doctor is a good idea if you think you could have oral thrush or are at risk for it.