The human body carries a lot of hitchhikers, such as fungus and bacteria, which normally cause no problems and may in fact be helpful. When conditions change, for any of a number of reasons including the occurrence of an illness or the use of specific medications, these normally quiet passengers can suddenly cause problems.
What is Thrush?
Thrush, also known as oral candidiasis, is an infection of the mucous membranes of the mouth. It is caused by the growth of yeast from the genus Candida. Most commonly it is caused by the specific yeast Candida albicans, but other Candida types can also cause it. The presence of the yeast can cause a creamy, whitish growth on the lining of the mouth and on the tongue.
Why Do You Get Thrush?
Yeast is normally found in the mouth of all people in small numbers. Their numbers and their growth are typically kept in check by our immune systems and the presence of the other organisms found in the mouth, what are referred to as normal mouth (or oral) flora. When something happens to change the balance of power inside the mouth, the result can sometimes be the overgrowth of the yeast, leading to the development of thrush.
What Causes the Yeast to Grow?
Candida can start growing as a result of a number of changes in the body. Some of the causes are obvious, some of them less so. For example, it is not uncommon for otherwise healthy infants to develop thrush. This may occur after being treated with antibiotics for another reason, or may occur for no clear reason at all. In adults, thrush is seen most frequently when the immune system is compromised and not functioning at peak efficiency, as might often be seen when being treated with chemotherapy or for someone with HIV infection. It can also occur during treatment with medications such as some antibiotics or the use of some steroids. Thrush can also occur in people with diabetes where blood sugar levels are not adequately controlled.
How is Thrush Treated?
There are numerous ways to treat oral candidiasis. Generalized topical anti-fungal treatments such as Gentian violet can be used, but commonly more specific anti-fungal treatments such as Nystatin or fluconazole are administered. Along with active treatments, adults with thrush can also focus on managing other underlying disorders that lead to the development of thrush and help to keep it at bay by improving their oral care and prevention.
As always, if you suspect that you may have thrush contact your physician or other health care provider for appropriate treatment options. To learn more about thrush read this detailed discussion at WebMD.
 |
