Get oral thrush treatment online
Seeing white lesions on the tongue? This thick white layer with a cottage cheese-like appearance is an oral thrush and is an overgrowth of fungus in your mouth.
Oral thrush is a nuisance but can be treated with an antifungal medication. Talk to our doctor online to determine whether it is an oral thrush or something else.
What is oral thrush?
Oral thrush, also known as oropharyngeal candidiasis, oral candidiasis, or simply thrush, is a yeast infection that predominantly develops inside the mouth. This condition is quite prevalent, particularly among infants and young children.
The onset of oral thrush is attributed to an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida albicans within the oral cavity. Under normal circumstances, Candida albicans exist harmlessly in the mouth, but when it proliferates excessively, it can form white lesions on the tongue and inner cheeks. Although oral thrush can affect individuals across various demographics, it typically poses minimal risk to most people, except for those with compromised immune systems.
How do I know if I have oral thrush?
Oral thrush may initially occur without noticeable symptoms, but certain signs may become apparent as the infection progresses. Recognizing these symptoms is essential for timely diagnosis and treatment. Here are the common indicators of oral thrush:
- Creamy white bumps or patches resembling cottage cheese on the inner cheeks, tongue, gums, roof of the mouth, lips, or tonsils. These may also have a slightly yellowish hue.
- Bleeding from the affected areas.
- A sensation of cotton-like texture in the mouth.
- Soreness or burning sensation in the mouth.
- Dry, cracked skin at the corners of the mouth.
- Loss of taste or altered taste sensation.
- Persistent bad taste in the mouth.
- Difficulty swallowing.
- Irritation, redness, and pain beneath dentures.
- Gum inflammation or irritation.
- A large, painless red patch on the tongue.
The primary cause of oral thrush is often prolonged use of antibiotics, disrupting the balance of bacteria in the mouth and facilitating the overgrowth of yeast, specifically Candida albicans.
What Causes Oral Thrush?
- An overgrowth of Candida albicans in the mouth primarily causes oral thrush.
- Normally, a small amount of Candida albicans is present in the mouth, but excessive growth can lead to oral thrush.
- Factors contributing to the overgrowth of Candida albicans include a weakened immune system.
- A compromised immune system proliferates Candida albicans, leading to oral thrush.
- Imbalances in the body’s microorganisms, often due to antibiotics or radiation therapy for cancer, can also trigger oral thrush.
- Diabetes is a significant risk factor for oral thrush, as uncontrolled diabetes weakens the immune system and provides an optimal environment for Candida albicans to flourish.
How can oral thrush be treated?
Oral thrush can be effectively managed through various medical treatments and home remedies. A healthcare provider may prescribe anti-thrush medications such as gels, drops, or lozenges. Topical oral suspensions may also be recommended to target the affected areas. Individuals with compromised immune systems may require oral or intravenous antifungal medications. In severe cases, when other treatments fail, Amphotericin B may be administered to alleviate symptoms and prevent further spread of the infection.
Treatment based on severity:
- Mild Oral Thrush: Typically treated with antifungal medications such as clotrimazole, miconazole, or nystatin applied inside the mouth for 7-14 days.
- Moderate Oral Thrush: Similar treatment approach as mild cases, with antifungal medications administered orally or topically.
- Severe Oral Thrush: May require prescription injections of Amphotericin B if other treatments prove ineffective.
Always adhere to the full course of prescribed medications, even if symptoms improve. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized treatment recommendations.
Oral thrush medication we prescribe
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Preventing oral thrush
Taking proactive measures to maintain good oral health can significantly reduce the risk of developing oral thrush. Here are some preventive strategies:
- Use an alcohol-free antiseptic mouthwash twice daily, as your dentist or healthcare provider recommends.
- Brush your teeth twice daily and floss regularly to remove food particles and plaque buildup.
- Remove dentures at night and clean them thoroughly daily.
- Ensure that dentures fit properly and do not cause irritation. Consult your dentist if adjustments are needed.
- If you experience dry mouth, discuss treatment options with your healthcare provider to help maintain moisture in the mouth.
- Limit consumption of sugary foods and beverages, as these can promote the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush.
- Keep blood sugar levels under control, especially if you have diabetes. Elevated sugar levels in saliva can create an environment conducive to Candida overgrowth.
Incorporating these preventive measures into your daily routine can help minimize the risk of developing oral thrush and maintain optimal oral health.
How to connect with doctor for oral thrush
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Hi Dr. Nicole, I have white patches on my tongue. Is it oral thrush?
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Prescription
- Lozenges (Clotrimazole) 10mg
- Take by mouth and slowly dissolve five times a day for ten days.
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FAQs about oral thrush treatment online
What is the strongest medication for oral thrush?
For persistent oral thrush, your doctor may prescribe you stronger antifungals like fluconazole 200mg taken for 1-2 weeks. It is an oral antifungal medication that helps reduce the overgrowth of thrush-causing yeast. Another option is an oral solution called Itraconazole 200mg, taken once daily for four weeks.
What kills oral thrush in the mouth?
Oral thrush in the mouth can be treated with antifungal medications such as lozenges, tablets, and liquids like Nystatin antifungal mouthwash.
How long does oral thrush last without treatment?
Oral thrush without treatment can take eight weeks or more. It can develop into other infections if not treated right away; therefore, consult a doctor if you have the symptoms of oral thrush.
Can online doctors diagnose oral thrush?
Yes, online doctors can diagnose oral thrush by discussing your medical condition, history, and the current medications you are taking. They will then advise you on the appropriate medicine to effectively treat your medical issue.
What makes oral thrush worse?
Oral thrush can aggravate if you are on medications like prednisone, corticosteroids (inhaled), or antibiotics, which disturb the natural microbiota. Consult a doctor for proper diagnosis of the condition, medical history, and medications you are taking to treat oral thrush effectively.
Can stress cause oral thrush?
Stress is not the cause of oral thrush, but it can be a contributing factor if you neglect oral hygiene, have a poor diet, or overdose on medicines or drugs due to stress. Moreover, stress can disturb the balance 0of microorganisms in your mouth, contributing to the growth of Candida causing oral thrush.
Should I brush my teeth with oral thrush?
Yes, it is important to take good care of your oral hygiene for faster results. It reduces the risk of infection getting worse. Discuss with your healthcare provider the choice of toothpaste and other oral hygiene options during an oral thrush infection.
Should I brush my tongue if I have oral thrush?
Yes, you can brush your tongue alongside taking the medication course for fungal removal. Both will prevent it from growing again.
Can oral thrush be a symptom of something else?
Other mouth infections develop symptoms like oral thrush-like hairy leukoplakia and frictional keratosis. Consult a doctor for further insights.
What can be misdiagnosed as thrush?
Other mouth infections can be misdiagnosed for thrush-like hair leukoplakia is a herpes infection that also causes white patches, itching, and redness like that of thrush. In other cases, it can be mistaken for canker sores and milk tongue in children. A simple swab test can determine the cause.
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