Oral Thrush Infection

If you develop an accumulation of the fungus Candida albicans in your mouth, this can result in oral thrush. Thrush can form thick, white lesions on the lining of your mouth, tongue or inner cheeks. Oral thrush can also spread to parts of your gums, tonsils, throat and the roof of your mouth. It may have the texture of cottage cheese and cause bleeding if scraped from the inside of the mouth. Oral thrush is most prevalent in infants and those who have compromised immune systems, such as HIV/AIDS patients. If left untreated, oral thrush can lead to severe complications in those with compromised immune systems.

Causes

• Oral thrush is caused by the fungus candida. According to the Mayo Clinic, candida can develop due to a weakened immune system or due to antibiotics. For example, taking antibiotics can sometimes cause a disturbance in the natural occurrence of healthy bacteria in your body. As a result, the candida can develop and grow at a quick rate. Certain conditions can also allow for the growth of candida if your immune system is weak. Medical conditions, such as yeast infections, diabetes, cancer and HIV/AIDS, can cause the growth of thrush.

Symptoms

• Signs of thrush can occur suddenly. Thrush can also be difficult to get rid of, especially in infants. Lesions will begin to appear within your mouth, and you may have pain associated with lesion development. The corners of your mouth may crack when you open your mouth. Other symptoms can include a loss of taste, or feeling as if you have swallowed a cotton ball. The thrush can become severe enough that you may have difficulty in swallowing your food.

Complications

• For healthy people, thrush can be resolved. The infection, however, has a tendency to return after treatment. If you have a compromised immune system, oral thrush can travel to other parts of your body. According to the Mayo Clinic, if thrush spreads to your intestines, you may be unable to get "adequate nutrition." Thrush can also spread to your digestive track, lungs and liver.

Treatment

• Once you have spotted oral thrush, it is important to treat it. In mothers who breast-feed, thrush can be continually passed from your infant's mouth to your nipple if the infection is not treated. Eating yogurts that contain acidophilus or taking acidophilus capsules can help decrease your chances of an infection. Gentian violet may also help. Take a cotton swab and dip the swab into the solution. Lightly dab the gentian violet on the affected areas. Use precaution when using gentian violet, as it stains furniture and clothing easily. If the oral thrush is severe, your physician may prescribe antifungal medication to kill the fungus.

Prevention

• Certain preventative methods can help prevent oral thrush from occurring. Eating yogurt can help maintain the natural balance of bacteria in your body. If you develop a yeast infection, treat it promptly. Take care of your teeth, especially if you have diabetes. Always brush and floss your teeth thoroughly. According to the Mayo Clinic, limit the amount of foods that contain sugar or yeast, as this can encourage candida growth.