What is Oral Thrush?

Oral Thrush is a condition that affects the lining of the mouth. The fungus Candida albicans begins to accumulate within the mouth. This produces white lesions within the mouth, which generally appear on the inner cheeks and tongue. The lesions can become painful and may bleed if they are scraped. In severe cases, the fungus can spread to affect the gums, roof of the mouth, tonsils, gums, and even the throat.

This condition an affect anyone but it is often seen in babies and people that wear dentures. Certain medications may cause Oral Thrush to develop. The condition is generally not considered serious; however, in rare instances serious complications can develop.

Symptoms of Oral Thrush

Symptoms of Oral Thrush can be very mild in appearance or severe, depending on how long the fungus has been present. The most obvious symptoms include white lesions that appear creamy on the inside of the mouth. Common areas to see these lesions include the cheeks, tongue, gums, tonsils, and the roof of the mouth. These lesions appear to look like cottage cheese which can result in a cotton type feeling within the mouth. These lesions can become painful and even bleed if they are scraped. Loss of taste is known to occur, as well as cracking by the corners of the mouth. In severe cases, the lesions can continue into the esophagus.

Infants that are breastfeeding and have Oral Thrush can pass the condition to the mothers' breasts. Symptoms of Oral Thrush for breastfeeding women include sensitive, itchy, and red nipples. The surrounding skin of the nipples can begin to flake or even become shiny. The nipples usually become painful during feeding and in between feedings. Stabbing pains can also occur in the breasts when Oral Thrush is present.

Risks and Complications of Oral Thrush

Oral Thrush can affect anyone; however, there are risk factors that increase the risk for developing the fungus. As stated earlier, infants and people that wear dentures have an increased risk for developing the condition. People with weakened immune systems also have an increased risk for Oral Thrush. Certain pre-existing health conditions and medications can cause the fungus to develop. Smoking and excessive dry mouth can also cause the fungus to develop.

Oral Thrush rarely produces serious complications; although the condition is likely to reoccur. People with compromised immune systems can have the condition progress to include the esophagus and intestines. If this occurs, serious complications can occur and the condition can become more difficult to treat.

Treatment for Oral Thrush

Oral Thrush is often diagnosed with a physical exam conducted by a physician. Sometimes throat cultures are taken if areas other than the mouth are affected. Biopsies may also be taken.

Home treatment is usually used for healthy adults and children. This includes eating foods that contain acidophilus or taking acidophilus capsules. In severe cases, and for babies and breastfeeding mothers with the condition, antifungal medications are often used to kill the bacteria.

Preventing Oral Thrush

Preventing Oral Thrush is fairly simple. The key aspect of preventing the fungus is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing and flossing the teeth properly and replacing the tooth brush frequently. Saltwater rinses are also a good habit to get into to prevent oral thrush. If you are breastfeeding, use nursing pads to reduce the risk of the fungal infection.

References:

"Oral Thrush" Mayolinic.com
"Oral Thrush" KidsHealth.org
"Dental Health and Thrush" WebMd.com