Oral thrush or oral candidiasis is an overgrowth of fungus that causes an infection in the mouth that presents as creamy white lesions on the tongue or inner cheeks. Oral thrush is most common in babies and elderly people who wear dentures but it can affect people of all ages. It can be quickly and easily treated using an anti-fungal suspension or gel.
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Oral thrush is a fungal infection that affects the mouth. It is sometimes referred to as oral candidiasis because it is caused by the group of yeasts known as Candida. Candida is found naturally in the mouths and digestive systems of most people. Normally this yeast is harmless, but it can lead to oral thrush when its numbers multiply. This multiplication can be triggered by a variety of factors, such as:
Oral thrush is not contagious in the same way a cold is. However, it can be caught through direct contact with the infection, such as kissing. The condition is more likely to affect babies, children, the elderly and those with an underlying condition that makes them more prone to the infection. These conditions include; diabetes, hypothyroidism (under-active thyroid), HIV, and iron/vitamin B12 deficiencies. Oral thrush is not usually serious and can be successfully treated with a range of anti-fungal medicines.
There are a variety of symptoms associated with oral thrush, these include:
For some sufferers, these symptoms can make eating and drinking more difficult.
Most simple cases of oral thrush can be self-diagnosed based on recognisable symptoms however, you should consult a doctor if the symptoms of oral thrush do not respond to treatment. If left untreated, the symptoms will most likely persist, leaving the mouth feeling very uncomfortable. In more severe cases, there is the risk of the infection spreading further into the body, which can potentially be more serious.
A doctor will usually be able to diagnose oral thrush through a simple visual inspection of the mouth. In some cases, a blood test may be required so that any underlying conditions can either be identified or ruled out.
Oral Candidiasis can be successfully treated with anti-fungal medicines. Typically, these medicines will be in a gel or liquid form, which allows for direct application inside of the mouth. Topical oral thrush treatments like these usually need to be applied several times daily for up to two weeks.
An example of an oral thrush treatment available over-the-counter is Daktarin Oral Gel. Prescription-strength treatments, such as Nystan Oral Suspension are also available.
However, for more severe or persistent infections, tablets or capsules are also available after having consulted with your doctor. Tablet and capsule alternatives are typically taken just once daily.
There are a number of ways that you can help to reduce the chance of developing oral thrush. These include:
Oral thrush is a fungal infection that affects the mouth and throat.
The infection is caused by a group of yeasts called candida. Oral thrush is sometimes referred to as oropharyngeal candidiasis. The condition will cause small white bumps to form inside the cheeks and on the tongue, which will usually cause the sufferer some level of discomfort.
Typically, oral thrush is a mild fungal infection that rarely causes complications.
It is recommended you visit your GP should you present with the symptoms of oral thrush. If left untreated, the symptoms can persist. In more severe cases, untreated oral thrush can carry the risk of the infection spreading further into the body, which can potentially be serious.
In most cases, your GP will be able to diagnose oral thrush with a simple visual examination. The doctor may also take a small scraping from one of the infected plaques in the mouth. This can then be sent to a laboratory, where it can be tested for the presence of the candida fungus.
In some cases, the doctor may recommend a blood test, which will help identify any associated condition, such as nutritional deficiencies or diabetes.
Oral thrush is not contagious in the same way a cold or the flu is.
However, under certain circumstances it can still be passed on. It is possible to contract oral thrush through oral contact with an infected person. Though this will depend on the strength of your immune system and whether there are other risk factors at play. For this reason it is advised to avoid oral contact, such as kissing, until the symptoms have fully resolved.
Oral thrush, in most cases, isn’t dangerous. Though if left untreated it can potentially spread further into the body, which can make the condition more serious.
However, this usually only happens in severe cases, and for those with weakened immune systems.
It is recommended to seek treatment for oral thrush as the infection can make the sufferer feel very uncomfortable. If left untreated, the condition will likely persist. Plus, if the infection spreads to other areas of the body it can cause further complications.
Oral thrush can be successfully treated with topical antifungal medicines. These are typically in the form of a gel of liquid, allowing for direct application to the infected area. Topical medications, such as gels or liquids, will usually need to be used several times daily, for approximately 1-2 weeks.
Examples of topical oral thrush treatments include:
In some cases, oral antifungals may be used, which are usually administered once daily. Examples of oral preparations include:
Fluconazole capsules
Itraconazole capsules
When suffering from oral thrush, it can be beneficial to alter your oral care regime at home. This will include:
Brushing teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush, as to avoid scraping the plaques.
Replacing your toothbrush daily, until the infection has cleared.
Avoid using mouthwashes and sprays.
Use a saltwater mixture for rinsing your mouth.
Oral thrush medications don’t often carry side-effects, although some have been known to cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and bloating.
If you are pregnant, it is recommended you speak to your doctor or pharmacist before attempting treatment.
Oral thrush is usually safe to treat using topical preparations, such as gels. However, capsules or tablets should be avoided if; you’re pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
You can reduce the chances of contracting oral thrush by following these simple routines:
If you suffer from, or are receiving treatment for a condition that puts you at a higher risk of developing oral thrush, your doctor can recommend taking a course of prescribed antifungals to help prevent oral thrush from developing.
Authored by
Andy is a co-founder and the Superintendent Pharmacist and Director at The Independent Pharmacy.
Reviewed by
Dan is an experienced pharmacist having spent time working in both primary and secondary care. He currently supports our clinical team by providing robust clinical governance review of our internal processes and information.
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