Oral Thrush (Oral Candidiasis): Causes, Symptoms & Effective Treatment

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What Is Oral Thrush?

Oral thrush, also known as oral candidiasis, is a fungal infection of the mouth caused by Candida albicans. It appears as white, creamy patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, tonsils, or palate and may cause redness, soreness, or difficulty swallowing.

Causes of Oral Thrush

  • Weak immune system (HIV, cancer therapy, long-term illness)

  • Use of antibiotics or steroids (especially inhalers)

  • Diabetes mellitus

  • Poor oral hygiene

  • Dentures that are not cleaned properly

  • Infants and elderly individuals

Signs and Symptoms

  • White patches that can be wiped off, leaving red areas

  • Burning sensation or pain in the mouth

  • Altered taste or loss of taste

  • Cracks at the corners of the mouth (angular cheilitis)

  • Difficulty feeding in infants

Management of Oral Thrush

1. Medical Treatment

Antifungal medications are the mainstay of treatment:

  • Topical antifungals:

    • Nystatin oral suspension

    • Clotrimazole lozenges

  • Systemic antifungals (for severe or recurrent cases):

    • Fluconazole

    • Itraconazole

Always complete the full course as prescribed.

2. Oral Hygiene Care

  • Brush teeth twice daily with a soft toothbrush

  • Rinse mouth after using steroid inhalers

  • Clean dentures daily and remove them at night

  • Avoid mouthwashes containing alcohol

3. Dietary Management

  • Reduce sugar and refined carbohydrates

  • Avoid very spicy or acidic foods during infection

  • Include probiotics like yogurt or curd to restore healthy oral flora

4. Management in Special Groups

Infants

  • Treat both mother and baby if breastfeeding

  • Sterilize feeding bottles, pacifiers, and nipples

Diabetic Patients

  • Maintain strict blood sugar control

Immunocompromised Patients

  • Longer antifungal therapy may be required

  • Regular oral examination is essential

5. Home Care Measures (Supportive)

  • Rinse mouth with warm salt water

  • Maintain adequate hydration

  • Avoid smoking and alcohol

Prevention of Oral Thrush

  • Maintain good oral hygiene

  • Use antibiotics only when prescribed

  • Control chronic illnesses like diabetes

  • Regular dental check-ups

  • Rinse mouth after inhaled medications

When to See a Doctor

  • Symptoms persist beyond 7–10 days

  • Recurrent episodes of oral thrush

  • Painful swallowing or spreading infection

  • Occurs in infants, elderly, or immunocompromised individuals

Conclusion

Oral thrush is a treatable condition with timely antifungal therapy, good oral hygiene, and management of underlying causes. Early intervention prevents complications and recurrence.

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