Oral thrush is caused by yeast called candida albicans which is present with many other organisms in the mouth. 50% of the population has candida in their mouths. Under normal circumstances candida albicans is kept under control by bacteria.
Causes of Oral Thrush
Sometimes the growth of Candida albicans spirals out of control and oral thrush develops. The most common cause is the use of antibiotics. Oral thrush can also be due to:
Long term use of corticosteroids
Immune disorders, such as HIV
Diabetes Mellitus
Men with long term illness
Men who wear dentures will have candida in their mouths. This usually happens when the dentures do not fit properly and damage the mucous membranes.
Small infants can often get it but it is not usually associated with any disease. (Frequent oral thrush should always be investigated in infants to find out cause).
Signs Symptoms of Oral Thrush
Signs and symptoms usually include:
Diagnosis of Oral Thrush
Diagnosis is usually made through observation or through laboratory sample.
Treatment of Oral Thrush
Antifungal medications are used to control the growth of candida albicans in oral thrush. A course of antifungal medication is given from between 5 to 10 days which are taken into the mouth an held as per instruction by the pharmaceutical company.
These antifungal medications include clotrimazole and nystatin.
A single dose medication is available called Diflucan.
Prognosis for Oral Thrush
Eating can be difficult and uncomfortable. The infection can spread to other parts of the body in some cases. Oral thrush usually responds quickly to treatment.
If oral thrush persists then checks by your doctor will be needed to see if there is an underlying illness that could be causing oral thrush.