Sometimes people get a yeast infection in their mouth called Thrush. Thrush is caused by a fungus and can be treated with over-the-counter medications or prescription drugs. In extreme cases, surgery may be necessary. If you think you have Thrush, please see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms of Thrush include white patches on the tongue or inside the cheeks, a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and changes in taste perception. Thrush treatment is usually very successful, and most people experience relief from symptoms within a few days.
What Is Thrush?
Thrush is a yeast infection that causes white patches in your mouth or tongue. Thrush is most common in babies, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.What Causes Thrush?
A type of yeast called Candida albicans causes Thrush. This yeast is usually found in small amounts in the mouth, digestive tract, and skin. But sometimes, these yeasts multiply too much and cause symptoms.Certain conditions encourage the growth of Thrush, including:- Diabetes
- A weakened immune system from cancer treatments or HIV/AIDS
- Use of corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive drugs
- Pregnancy
- A dry mouth
Why is Thrush a concern during breastfeeding?
If breastfeeding and your nipples are cracked or bleeding, Thrush can enter your breast milk ducts and multiply. This can lead to a breast yeast infection. Symptoms of this condition include sore, cracked, or bleeding nipples. If you have these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.How Is Thrush Diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider can often diagnose Thrush just by looking in your mouth. They may also swab the inside of your mouth and send the sample to a laboratory to identify the type of Candida causing your infection.What Are the Symptoms of Thrush?
The main symptom of Thrush is white patches in your mouth that look like cottage cheese. These patches usually don't hurt. You might also have a sore throat, trouble swallowing, or cracked lips.Thrush symptoms in women can also include:
Itching and burning in the vagina and vulvaRedness and swelling of the vulvaVaginal discharge that looks like cottage cheese.Thrush symptoms in men can include:
Itching and burning in the penisRedness and swelling of the head of the penis (glans)White patches on the glans or foreskin.Thrush in other areas
Thrush can affect other areas of skin, such as the armpits, groyne, and between the fingers. These infections often cause redness, itching, and a discharge.How Is Thrush Treated?
Thrush can usually be treated with antifungal medicines that are either applied to the affected area (topical) or taken by mouth (oral).You'll probably take oral medicine for 7 to 14 days. You may need a longer course of treatment if you have severe Thrush or you get it often.How can Thrush be prevented?
There are things you can do to reduce your risk of getting Thrush. These include:- Practise good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice daily, floss daily, and see your dentist regularly.
- Wear dentures that fit well and clean them daily.
- If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar under control.
- If you have a weakened immune system, talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk of Thrush.
- White patches that don't go away
- Sore throat
- Trouble swallowing
- Cracked lips
A pharmacist can help with Thrush.
If you think you have Thrush, speak to a pharmacist for advice. They can recommend the best treatment for you.You can also visit your local healthcare provider, but you may need to book an appointment. Categorized into General Health
Reviewed by
