Oral Thrush
Oral Candidiasis (also called oral thrush) is an infection of the mouth caused by the candida fungus, also known as yeast. Oral thrush causes creamy white lesions to form in your mouth, most often on your tongue and your inner cheeks. It may also spread to the roof of your mouth, inner lip region, gums, tonsils, or to the back of your throat.
Noramlly, small amounts of the candida fungus are present in the mouth, digestive tract, and skin of most healthy people. They are usually kept in check by other bacteria and microorganisms in the body. However, certain illnesses, stress, or medications can disturb the delicate balance, causing the fungus candida to grow out of control and causing thrush.
Medications that upset the balance of microorganisms in the mouth and may cause oral thrush include:
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Corticosteroids
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Antibiotics
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Birth control pills
Illnesses or medical situations that make candida infection more likely include:
Oral thrush can affect anyone of any age, though it occurs most often in babies and toddlers, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. People who smoke or wear dentures that don't fit properly also are at increased risk for thrush. In addition, babies can pass the infection to their mothers during breast-feeding. This disease is not contagious, and may not be a major cause for concern if you are generally healthy. Furthermore, it is usually successfully treated with antifungal medication.
If you or your child suffers from symptoms of oral thrush, the
Teeth and Skin services at The Aga Khan University Hospital will be able to assist and assist and treat you effectively.
