Oral Thrush - A Quick Read
Do you have white or yellowish bumps in your mouth?
Wiping off the white patches causes it to bleed?
What is Oral Thrush?
is result of a yeast or fungal infection inside the mouth.
Also known as oral candidiasis or thrush.
Appearance and Symptoms
white or yellow patches inside the mouth
may or may not bleed
burning or sore sensation in the mouth
loss or a bad taste in the mouth
difficulty swallowing
Location
inner cheeks of the mouth
tongue
tonsils
gums
inner lips
Causes
overgrowth of fungus in the mouth due to antibiotics
immune system is suppressed from sickness
chemotherapy
contagious from infected person
Affected Group and Risk factors:
Babies , toddler and older adults are more prone to thrush.
Dry mouth conditions increases risk
Denture users
Smokers
Treatment
oral antifungal medications
Oral antifungal lozengers and or drops
Prevention and lifestyle adaptations
Use soft toothbrush during the thrush
Replace toothbrush after the thrush
increase probiotic intake
consume more yogurt to assist recovery
Use a healthy balanced diet
Practise good oral hygiene
If using dentures, clean properly before and after use.
Complications
Yeast infections in other parts of the body
vaginal infection from patient with oral thrush if performing oral sex
penile infection from patient with oral thrush if performing oral sex
fungal infection to newborn if mother has vaginal yeast infection during natural childbirth
fungal infection to newborn if mother has breast or nipple yeast infection during breast-feeding
Can spread to the esophagus
Can lead to systemic candidiasis and cause septic shock
All these and more are available at Health First pharmacy...visit us for all your health needs first...talk to us first!!!