Oral Thrush – Natural Remedies at Home, Causes and Symptoms

Key Facts

Oral thrush, also known as oropharyngeal candidiasis, is a fungal infection caused by a yeast called Candida. While small amounts of Candida are usually harmless, an overgrowth can lead to symptoms. The condition can affect people of all ages, but it’s particularly common in newborns, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. The main symptoms are white patches on the tongue and inside of the cheeks. Oral thrush can usually be effectively treated with antifungal medications.

What is Oral Thrush?

Oral thrush is a condition where the fungus Candida albicans overgrows in the mouth and throat. Candida is normally present in the oral cavity, but under certain conditions, it can multiply and cause an infection. This results in the characteristic white patches of oral thrush, which can appear on the tongue, inside the cheeks, on the roof of the mouth, and on the back of the throat.

Risk Factors of Oral Thrush

Several factors can increase your risk of developing oral thrush, including:

• Weakened immune system: This could be due to conditions such as HIV/AIDS or treatments like chemotherapy that suppress the immune system.
• Age: Oral thrush is more common in infants and the elderly.
• Diabetes: If not well-controlled, diabetes can create an environment that encourages Candida growth.
• Medications: Certain medications, including corticosteroids, antibiotics, and birth control pills can upset the balance of microorganisms in your mouth.
• Dentures: Poorly fitting dentures can provide spaces for Candida to grow.
• Dry mouth: Conditions and medications that cause dry mouth can contribute to the development of oral thrush.

Causes of Oral Thrush

Oral thrush is caused by a yeast fungus called Candida albicans. Under normal circumstances, this fungus exists harmlessly in your mouth without causing an infection. However, when the environment in the mouth changes, the fungus can multiply and cause symptoms. Such changes might occur due to illness, pregnancy, medications, or fluctuations in the immune system.

Symptoms of Oral Thrush

Symptoms of oral thrush may vary in severity and include:

• White, creamy yeast patches on the tongue, inside of the cheeks, and sometimes on the roof of the mouth, gums, and tonsils.
• Redness or soreness that may be severe enough to cause difficulty eating or swallowing.
• A cottony feeling in the mouth.
• Loss of taste or an unpleasant taste in the mouth.
• Cracking and redness at the corners of the mouth (a condition known as angular cheilitis).

What does oral thrush look like?

Oral thrush manifests as white, creamy patches that may resemble cottage cheese. These patches may be found on the tongue, the inside of the cheeks, the roof of the mouth, the gums, or the back of the throat. The tissue under these patches might bleed when scraped. In some cases, the lesions may spread into the esophagus, causing pain or discomfort when swallowing.

What are the complications of thrush?

In most cases, oral thrush isn’t serious and can be effectively treated. However, for people with weakened immune systems, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, such as the esophagus, lungs, liver, and skin, leading to more serious complications. If not treated, severe oral thrush can result in difficulties eating and drinking, leading to malnutrition and dehydration.

How is thrush diagnosed?

Oral thrush is usually diagnosed based on typical clinical features. A dentist or doctor can often diagnose oral thrush simply by examining your mouth. To confirm the diagnosis, they might take a sample from your mouth to examine under a microscope. In some cases, if the infection has spread beyond the esophagus, an endoscopy may be performed to examine the extent of the infection.

Treatments for Oral Thrush

Treatment for oral thrush typically involves antifungal medications. These may come in the form of lozenges, tablets, or liquid that you swish around your mouth and swallow. In severe cases, systemic treatment with antifungal medications may be required. It’s important to follow the prescribed treatment regimen fully, even if your symptoms seem to improve before all the medication is finished.

How soon after treatment will I feel better?

The length of treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms and the individual’s overall health. With proper treatment, oral thrush usually improves within two weeks. However, in people with weakened immune systems, symptoms might persist and require more prolonged treatment.

Ways to Prevent Oral Thrush

To help prevent oral thrush, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene. This includes brushing teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily. If you use dentures, ensure they fit properly and clean them every night. Regular dental visits can also help prevent oral thrush. Individuals with dry mouths can benefit from sipping water throughout the day or using a saliva substitute.

How can I lower my risk for thrush?

Certain lifestyle modifications can help lower your risk for thrush:

• Control blood sugar levels: If you have diabetes, keeping your blood sugar levels in check can help prevent thrush.
• Quit smoking: Smoking creates an environment in the mouth that promotes the growth of Candida.
• Eat a balanced diet: Proper nutrition can boost your immune system and help prevent infections.
• Avoid mouthwashes or sprays: These products can disrupt the normal flora in the mouth.

What can I expect if I have thrush?

If you have thrush, you might experience discomfort in your mouth and difficulty eating and swallowing. You might also notice an unpleasant taste in your mouth. With appropriate treatment, these symptoms should improve within a few weeks. However, in individuals with weakened immune systems, the condition might be more difficult to treat and may recur.

Home Remedies for Oral Thrush

While home remedies should not replace medical treatment, they can help manage symptoms and prevent recurrence of oral thrush:

• Saltwater rinses: Rinsing your mouth with salt water can soothe the symptoms of oral thrush.
• Yogurt: Eating unsweetened yogurt that contains live cultures can help restore the normal flora in your mouth.
• Coconut oil: Swishing coconut oil in your mouth might have an antifungal effect.

These remedies should be used in conjunction with prescribed treatments, not as a substitute.

Is oral thrush contagious?

Oral thrush is not typically considered contagious. However, in certain circumstances, such as kissing, it might be possible to pass the Candida fungus to another person, but it’s unlikely to cause an infection unless other risk factors are present.

Is oral thrush painful?

Oral thrush can cause discomfort and sometimes pain, particularly when eating or swallowing. If the infection spreads to the throat or esophagus, it can cause significant pain and difficulties swallowing.

When should I see my healthcare provider?

You should seek medical attention if you notice white patches in your mouth, have trouble swallowing, or if your symptoms persist despite trying home remedies. Also, if you have a persistent dry mouth, chronic sore throat, or recurring oral thrush, it’s important to see a healthcare provider as these could be signs of an underlying medical condition.

Why is thrush a concern during breastfeeding?

Thrush can be a concern during breastfeeding because the infection can pass between the mother and baby. If a breastfeeding mother has thrush, it’s possible for the infection to pass to the baby’s mouth during feeding. Conversely, if a baby has oral thrush, it can pass to the mother’s breasts, causing a yeast infection (known as thrush of the nipple).

Oral thrush in babies

Oral thrush is common in infants due to their immature immune systems. Babies with thrush can have white patches in their mouths, be fussy and irritable, and may have difficulty feeding. If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to see a pediatrician for appropriate treatment.

Oral thrush in adults

In adults, oral thrush can be a sign of an underlying health condition or result from factors such as poor oral hygiene, wearing dentures, or the use of certain medications. Adults with thrush may have white patches in their mouths, a burning sensation, or difficulties swallowing.

Oral thrush and diet

Diet can play a role in the management and prevention of oral thrush. Diets high in sugar can promote the growth of Candida, so reducing sugar intake can be helpful. Additionally, consuming probiotic-rich foods, such as yogurt, can help restore the normal balance of bacteria and yeast in your mouth.

Can a pharmacist help with oral thrush?

Yes, a pharmacist can help with oral thrush. Over-the-counter antifungal medications are available that can effectively treat oral thrush. However, if symptoms persist after using these products, it’s essential to see a healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.

Other questions related to oral thrush that you have asked

Thrush tongue is drinking Pepsi ok?

Consuming sugary drinks like Pepsi while dealing with oral thrush might not be the best idea. Candida, the fungus responsible for oral thrush, thrives in sugary environments. Therefore, consuming high-sugar foods and drinks can potentially exacerbate the condition by encouraging Candida growth. In general, it’s a good idea to maintain a healthy, balanced diet while dealing with oral thrush and limit the intake of sugary foods and beverages. If you have oral thrush, consider drinking water, unsweetened herbal teas, or other non-sugary beverages until your condition improves. Let’s not forget that your diet is just one aspect of managing oral thrush. Proper oral hygiene and following prescribed treatments are equally, if not more, important.

Tongue scraper for oral thrush

Tongue scraping can be a useful adjunct to your oral hygiene regimen, particularly if you’re dealing with oral thrush. The practice involves using a tongue scraper – a small, rounded tool usually made of plastic or metal – to remove the coating of bacteria, food debris, fungi, and dead cells from the surface of the tongue. When dealing with oral thrush, tongue scraping can help physically remove the Candida fungus from your tongue’s surface. However, it should not be relied upon as the primary treatment method for oral thrush, but rather as a supplementary action to prescribed antifungal medication.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when using a tongue scraper:

• Gentleness: The tongue is a sensitive organ, and vigorous scraping can cause injury. Always scrape your tongue gently and stop if it feels uncomfortable or painful.
• Consistency: For best results, make tongue scraping part of your daily oral hygiene routine. This can help keep Candida levels in check.
• Hygiene: Always clean your tongue scraper thoroughly after each use to prevent reinfection or the spread of the fungus.
• Consultation: If you’re dealing with a severe case of oral thrush, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider before starting a tongue scraping regimen, as the action might irritate the inflamed areas.

While tongue scraping can help control Candida levels in your mouth, it’s crucial to also follow the recommended antifungal treatment plan and maintain good oral hygiene overall. Additionally, addressing any underlying conditions or risk factors contributing to oral thrush is key to managing the condition effectively.

Getting rid of oral thrush – having trouble getting, can’t get rid

Oral thrush can indeed be stubborn and recurrent, especially in people with weakened immune systems or other health conditions. If you’re having trouble getting rid of oral thrush, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider, as there may be an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.
Here are some strategies that might be suggested:

• Antifungal Medication: Oral thrush is primarily treated with antifungal medications. If the thrush is not responding to the initial treatment, your healthcare provider may prescribe a different antifungal drug or a longer course of treatment.
• Address Underlying Conditions: Conditions like diabetes or immune system disorders can increase your risk of oral thrush. Ensuring these conditions are well-managed can help to prevent recurrent thrush infections.
• Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, and getting regular dental check-ups. If you wear dentures, ensure they’re cleaned properly each day and that they fit correctly.
• Dietary Adjustments: Consuming a balanced diet can boost your immune system and help prevent infections. Reducing the amount of sugar and yeast in your diet can also help inhibit the growth of Candida.
• Stop Smoking: If you smoke, consider quitting. Smoking can increase your susceptibility to oral thrush.
• Medication Review: If you’re taking medication such as corticosteroids or antibiotics, speak to your healthcare provider. These drugs can disrupt the balance of microorganisms in your mouth. Your healthcare provider might be able to suggest alternative treatments.
• Probiotics: Probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria, can help to keep Candida growth in check. Probiotic supplements or foods like yogurt with active cultures can be a beneficial addition to your diet.

This article is complete and was published on June 5, 2023, and last updated on August 25, 2023.