Oral thrush, also referred to oral candidiasis, is an opportunistic infection that deals with millions of people and it can be manifested in any age bracket. We are going to cover details on it in this post.
Oral Thrush
Oral thrush (oral candidiasis) sets in as a result of an overgrowth of Candida albicans (an opportunistic fungus) that is naturally occurring in the mouth, alimentary canal, and skin up to the vaginal of female reproductive system.
It got manifested and expresses itself when the body’s immune system get affected and compromised or when any conditions create a fertile ground for its multiplication and increase its number. When it multiplies it causes overgrowth of white lesions on the tongue, inner area of the cheeks, gingiva, throat region and may even include the tonsils.
In mild immune compromise cases, oral thrush may bring about minimal expression and discomfort. Though, if left unattended to, it may spread and migrate to other areas of the body, leading to a threatening and severe health risks, most especially for people with already dismembered immune system.
Oral thrush in most cases considered not communicable and contagious especially in healthy ones whether adults or children. However, those with weakened and compromised immune systems, which may include those with HIV/AIDS, cancerous diseases, diabetes mellitus, or a patient that undergone recent organ transplants, may contract and develop the infection if they come close to or even contact with Candida.
As for these group of health risks individuals, it is paramount to take care around others with candidiasis to avoid an avoidable spread or contraction of oral thrush.
Causes of Oral Thrush
Oral thrush can express itself due to several factors which are multifaceted in nature, with each factor has something to do with body’s balance of bacteria and fungi. The most common of those causes include the following;
1- Weakened Immune System
Certain conditions including HIV/AIDS, diabetes, and some forms of cancers suppress the functionality of the immune system and as such create a fertile ground for the manifestation of oral thrush.
2- Medications
Antibiotics, corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs among others cause the natural balance of microbes (such as the oral flora) to be abnormal, making fungal infections more likely as they increase in size beyond the normal natural size.
3- Medical Treatments
Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and organ transplantation disrupts and weakens the body’s immunity and defence against foreign bodies and microbial attacks therefore increasing susceptibility to infections.
4- Diabetes
Increased blood sugar levels than normal range in diabetics create an atmosphere for Candida growth and multiplication.
5- Poor Oral Hygiene
Lack of good oral care and maintenance gives chances for Candida to proliferate and develop in the oral cavity.
6- Dentures
Wearing of dentures especially removable dentures without regular removal and cleaning can create fertile ground for Candida accumulation, which will eventually lead to infections.
7- Dry Mouth
Xerostomia and some certain health conditions, infected salivary glands which brings about reduced saliva production generally make the mouth more open and easily infected opportunistic organisms including yeast.
Other factors that may lead to oral thrush are smoking, changes in normal range of hormones, malnutrition and so on. In a nutshell, anything that can suppress the functionality of immune system can bring about oral thrush.
Symptoms of Oral Thrush
Oral Thrush Symptoms
Oral thrush can express a several forms of symptoms, which can be shown in different manifestations based on severity. However, having a quick diagnosis of oral thrush signs and symptoms can bring about prompt intervention and relief.
Common symptoms include:
1- White Lesions:
Elevated white patches on the tongue, vestibular area of the cheeks, gums, and even throat are the hallmark of a possible thrush infection.
2- Redness and Soreness:
Attacked areas may have a reddish colouration, sore in nature, and slightly bleed if rubbed or scrapped for removal.
3- Cracked Corners of the Mouth:
Crusted or cracked corners of the lips with manifestation of little series of fissures or soreness is expressed in some patients.
4- Loss of Taste:
High degree of thrush multiplication can dull the taste buds, leading to a transient loss of taste sensation.
5- Burning Sensation:
A possible report of burning or painful sensation can be encountered in a patient of oral thrush especially while eating or swallowing or anything that can bring about direct contact.
Last but not least, oral thrush may migrate to other regions of the body system, leading to a more fatal health issues, if left untreated. Detecting these symptoms early can go a long way in avoid its complications and outcomes of late interventions.
Treatment of Oral Thrush
"Effective treatment options for oral thrush depend on the severity of the infection, overall health, and underlying conditions. Here’s a breakdown of the most common treatments:
Antifungal Medications
Topical Antifungals: Nystatin, clotrimazole, or miconazole are effective for mild to moderate cases.
Oral Antifungals: For severe or recurrent cases, doctors may prescribe fluconazole or itraconazole, which target fungi throughout the body."Source
Rinsing of the mouth
"Using an antifungal mouthwash can help clear mild cases of thrush and provide symptom relief.
Probiotics
Probiotic supplements or yogurts with live cultures can help restore the balance of healthy bacteria in the mouth, creating an environment less conducive to Candida overgrowth.
Hygiene And Lifestyle Changes
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene, regularly cleaning dentures, and quitting smoking can help manage and prevent oral thrush."Source
That's all as regards oral thrush and its effect on the oral cavity. The other aspects will be discussed in the subsequent posts and happy reading.
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