Many of us have already heard of vaginal yeast infection caused by a fungus called candida. There are other infections caused by this fungus, and it is thrush, a yeast infection of the mouth. Thrush mainly affects babies and toddlers, the elderly and people with weak immune systems. Candida fungus is actually present in the mouth, digestive tract and skin in smaller quantities and is usually controlled by other bacteria in the body.
And what causes thrush?
Diseases such as diabetes, HIV infection, cancer and dry mouth can lead to yeast growth. Stress is also a factor. Some medicines that cause an imbalance with the candida fungus are corticosteroids, antibiotics and birth control pills. In addition, the infection will develop for people with uncontrolled diseases or pregnant women. Smokers are not spared from this infection of the mouth, as well as those who wear dentures that do not fit properly. In addition, children can develop thrush, but can be treated immediately; however, it may be permanent for a longer period of time.
Do you know the symptoms of oral yeast infections?
One of the common symptoms of thrush is the presence of white and creamy protruding lesions in your mouth, mouth cap, tongue or internal cheeks, gums, tonsils or back of your throat. The injuries are very painful and bleed when you try to clean them or brush your teeth. In some cases, the lesions can spread to your esophagus, which can cause pain or difficulty when swallowing and even cause fever. Yeast can infect the lungs, liver and skin for people with low immune systems due to cancer, HIV and the like.
How do doctors diagnose oral yeast infections?
The dentist will examine these white lesions in the mouth, tongue and cheeks, after which he can make his diagnosis. For an infection that spreads to the esophagus, throat culture is done for laboratory testing or endoscopy of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestines.
How do we treat oral yeast infection?
There are antifungal drugs prescribed for 10-14 days for the treatment of thrush. They are available in tablets, lozenges or in liquid form. Your dentist will make an accurate treatment based on the age and cause of the infection. He will also advise the patient to consult with a physician for further tests, because this infection may be a symptom of other medical problems in order to ensure that they are properly treated.
How do we prevent thrush?
We can always prevent a yeast infection of the mouth by applying proper oral hygiene. This means that you need to brush your teeth two or three times every day. Mouth and mouth rinses can cause an imbalance of the microorganism in the mouth, so try to minimize or avoid their use. Regularly perform a dental check-up if you have diabetes or wearing dentures. Minimize the consumption of sugar and foods that stimulate the growth of yeast. Avoid smoking or, if you want, start giving up the habit to avoid thrush.
By and large, we learned that thrush can be prevented and controlled. In addition, for those who have special medical conditions, special attention should be paid. Knowing its causes, symptoms and diagnosis, treating a yeast infection of the mouth is very easy.
