If you have small children, it is not totally uncommon for them to get thrush in their youth. It is not fatal, and can be treated if caught quickly.
This issue is a mouth infection caused by Candida fungus. The fungus is also commonly known as yeast.
This infection can become problematic due to its recurring nature and the ability to infect other parts of the body such as yeast infections in the vaginal area and diaper rash in babies. The people affected by Thrush can be of any age group and sex, though it is mostly seen in toddlers as well as babies.
Even older adults are not immune to Candida infection. It is also common among immuno-compromised patients such as AIDS patients
The cause for this disease is generally fungus Candida albicans. It is a fungus, which is normally present in the skin, mouth, and the digestive tract of the people without causing any problem.
The activity of Candida fungus is closely controlled by other bacteria inside the mouth and elsewhere. Its when this control over the growth of the yeast is lost, problems occur.
Illnesses, medications and stress can cause an imbalance of bacteria in the mouth (which control the fungus). This is sufficient enough for the growth of the fungus Candida in a countless manner, which ultimately leads to infection.
Some examples of medications which upset the microbial balance of mouth include corticosteroids, birth pills and antibiotics. People with HIV infection, uncontrolled diabetes, cancer, and dry mouth are more likely to be infected by candida fungus.
Smoking and ill-fitting dentures are also risk factors. You should understand what the symptoms are so you can identify it in yourself or your child immediately.
People who face such kind of infections can suffer from it for a long period of time. Some of the common symptoms of thrush include, occurrence of creamy white, slightly raised lesions in the mouth.
These lesions normally occur on the surface of the tongue and inner cheeks. Sometimes it also occurs in the palate region of the mouth, tonsils, gums, and the back region of the throat.
These lesions can be irritating, and bleeding can occur from them, when you brush your teeth or rather try to scrape them. If lesions reach into the esophagus, then it can lead to severe complications like difficulty in swallowing food, fever, and a feeling like the food getting stuck in the throat or the mid- chest area.
Thrush can even spread beyond the esophagus area to the extremely crucial internal organs like liver, lungs etc. Thrush can easily be diagnosed by oral examination.
If there are lesions present inside, then diagnosis can be confirmed with the help of a microscopic examination of the affected tissue. If it reaches into the esophagus, then you may be required to go through multiple tests.
If you see any of these symptoms, you should seek treatment immediately. The treatment of Thrush is done according to the severity of the problem.
For people with weak immune systems, it can become much more difficult to get rid off. Antifungal medications are available, which are given to the patient for the duration of two weeks.
These medicines are readily available in liquids, lozenges, and tablet form. Treatment is designed specifically according to the age of the patient and the cause of infection.
If there are any other underlying health problems which may be stimulating candida growth, they needs to be taken care of as well. You should do everything you can to prevent the spread of this disease.
If you are going to prevent the spreading of this infection, you should be vigilant when it comes to brushing your teeth twice a day, and avoiding artificial sprays and mouth washes.
This is important because they are mainly responsible for creating imbalance between the microorganisms in the mouth. Be sure to visit your dentist regularly, especially if you are suffering from diabetes or wear braces.
Be sure to avoid a huge amount of sugar and alcohol, and give a shot at quitting smoking as soon as you can. It not only causes problems for you, but the others around you as well.
As previously mentioned, be sure to seek a doctor immediately if you see this in yourself, or in your family. Do everything you can to prevent the spread of this nasty illness.
Author Resource:-
Tom Selwick is a former dental assistant, has authored hundreds of articles relating to oral health and has worked for an Family Dentist Scottsdale. He has been a guest dental lecturer for over 15 years.
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