What is Oral Thrush?
Oral thrush (oral candidiasis) is a fungal infection caused by Candida albicans that develops on the mucous membranes of the mouth.
Common Symptoms
- White, creamy lesions on tongue, inner cheeks, and roof of mouth
- Slightly raised lesions resembling cottage cheese
- Redness and soreness inside the mouth
- Loss of taste
- Difficulty swallowing
- Cracking at corners of mouth
Risk Factors
- Weakened immune system
- Diabetes
- Antibiotic use
- Denture wear
- Corticosteroid use (including inhalers)
- Young age (infants) or advanced age
- Poor oral hygiene
Treatment Options
Antifungal Medications
- Nystatin (oral suspension or tablets)
- Fluconazole (for severe cases)
- Clotrimazole troches
Supportive Care
- Good oral hygiene
- Salt water rinses
- Regular dental check-ups
- Proper denture care if applicable
Prevention
- Maintain good oral hygiene
- Rinse mouth after using corticosteroid inhalers
- Control blood sugar if diabetic
- Clean dentures properly
- Quit smoking
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if:
- Symptoms persist over 2 weeks
- Difficulty swallowing or eating
- Fever develops
- You have a weakened immune system
Complications
If left untreated, oral thrush can:
- Spread to esophagus
- Cause difficulty eating
- Lead to poor nutrition
- Affect overall health in immunocompromised patients