What is Oral Thrush?
Oral thrush, a fungal infection in the mouth, is usually caused by a yeast fungus (Candida yeasts). The most common pathogen is the Candida albicans fungus. This condition is also known as oral candidiasis or “thrush.”
The fungus settles on the mucous membranes of the oral cavity. It can develop without causing disease in many people. However, under certain conditions, such as when the immune defense is weakened due to a serious illness or as a side effect of certain medications, these fungi can proliferate strongly.
Oral thrush may not be immediately noticeable. It is often harmless and not always painful. However, it can be very bothersome and significantly impact patients’ quality of life.
If there is a constant furry feeling throughout the mouth, it may be due to oral thrush. It is rarely dangerous but often very annoying. A weakened immune system makes a person more susceptible to oral candidiasis. Learn more in detail.
At a Glance
- Oral thrush is not necessarily a disease that is immediately apparent.
- The infection is caused by yeast fungi (Candida yeasts), with the most common pathogen being a fungus called Candida albicans.
- Oral fungal infection is usually harmless but can be very bothersome and significantly impact quality of life.
- The fungus can easily spread with a weakened immune system.
- Other factors such as dentures, diabetes, and certain medications can also promote oral thrush.
Note: The information in this article cannot replace a doctor’s examination and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment.
What Are the Symptoms of Oral Thrush?
A white coating on the affected mucous membranes of the mouth and throat is a typical sign of an oral fungal infection. These coatings can be removed with a wooden spatula, revealing red, inflamed areas underneath that often bleed easily.
Despite good oral hygiene, patients often feel a constant furry sensation in their mouths. Additionally, the sense of taste may change, and sometimes there is pain or a burning sensation on the tongue. These symptoms make eating and drinking difficult. If the oral fungal infection is severe, swallowing and speaking may also become difficult.
What Causes Oral Thrush?
Oral candidiasis typically occurs as a result of illness or as a side effect of treatment. This fungal infection is often a secondary condition, especially in cancer treatment. Chemotherapy can attack mucous membranes and weaken the immune system, making it easier for the fungus to spread. Radiation therapy in the head and neck area also increases the risk. The risk of developing a fungal infection increases with the intensity of the treatment.
Other factors can also cause candidiasis, such as dentures, diabetes, and certain medications, including broad-spectrum antibiotics used for several weeks. When the body and immune system are weakened, fungal infections develop more quickly. This is the case, for example, in people with HIV/AIDS. Generally, weakened, malnourished, or artificially fed individuals who require care are at high risk.
How to Prevent Oral Thrush?
Healthy individuals do not need to take any specific measures to prevent oral candidiasis. However, there are measures for people at increased risk to protect themselves. Those in the risk group, such as those undergoing cancer treatment or living with HIV/AIDS, can take antifungal medications as a preventive measure. Antifungal drugs inhibit the growth of fungi or kill them.
Other measures that protect against oral thrush have not yet been sufficiently researched. Good oral hygiene is always recommended, especially for people with dentures. Probiotics may help prevent oral fungal infections, particularly in elderly individuals.
How Is Oral Thrush Diagnosed?
Anyone at high risk of developing an oral fungal infection should inform their doctors or caregivers early about any discomfort or pain in the mouth. An examination is then conducted to determine if there is a fungal infection. In unclear cases, a swab is taken from the mucosal coating with a sterile cotton swab and examined in the laboratory.
Cancer or HIV/AIDS patients are recommended to have regular oral examinations. This allows the infection to be detected at an early stage. Changes such as white coating or inflamed areas can also be checked by looking into the oral cavity with a mirror. Relatives or caregivers can assist in this regard.
How Is Oral Thrush Treated?
Fungal infections can be treated with antifungal medications. Some medications are applied directly to the affected area (locally). Other medications are ingested or swallowed and then spread throughout the body (systemically). Some of the active ingredients applied topically also enter the gastrointestinal system via saliva. There, they are absorbed in parts and then distributed throughout the body.
Studies on Cancer and HIV/AIDS Patients
Studies on cancer and HIV/AIDS patients show that oral antifungals may be more effective than the medications currently in use. However, stronger side effects are observed with oral administration. These side effects can include temporary headaches, skin rashes, nausea, bloating, and diarrhea.
Choosing the Right Antifungal Treatment
The appropriate antifungal for treatment depends on the patient. The determining factors in the selection are the patient’s health status and the severity of the infection. The medication is typically taken for a period of one to two weeks.
Dietary Adjustments for Oral Pain Relief
To protect the painful areas in the mouth, dietary adjustments can be made. Soft foods and avoiding hot and alcoholic beverages have proven to be beneficial. Honey is said to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, making it recommended as a sweetener instead of sugar.
