Oral Thrush

Oral thrush is a fungal infection in the mouth caused by an overgrowth of Candida yeast. It commonly affects the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, and throat, and can cause discomfort, altered taste, and difficulty eating or swallowing. While oral thrush can occur at any age, it is more likely in infants, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

Typical symptoms include creamy white patches in the mouth, redness or soreness, a cotton-like feeling, cracking at the corners of the lips, and mild bleeding if the patches are scraped. Oral thrush may develop after antibiotic use, inhaled steroid medication, poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, or certain health conditions such as diabetes.

Treatment usually involves antifungal medication, along with addressing underlying risk factors to prevent recurrence. Maintaining good oral hygiene and managing contributing conditions can help reduce the risk. This section explores the causes of oral thrush, common symptoms, treatment options, and signs that indicate medical advice should be sought.