Oral Candidiasis FAQ
What causes oral thrush?
Oral thrush is caused by the overgrowth of the Candida fungus in the mouth. This overgrowth can be due to factors like weakened immune system, antibiotics, or certain medical conditions.
How is oral thrush diagnosed?
Oral thrush is usually diagnosed based on the appearance of the lesions in the mouth. In some cases, a swab or biopsy may be taken for confirmation.
Is oral thrush contagious?
Oral thrush is not considered contagious as the fungus is already present in the oral cavity. However, it can be passed from mother to infant during childbirth.
What are the symptoms of oral thrush?
Symptoms of oral thrush include white lesions in the mouth, soreness, difficulty swallowing, and loss of taste.
Who is at risk of developing oral thrush?
Individuals with weakened immune systems, infants, elderly, people on certain medications, and those with medical conditions such as diabetes are at higher risk of developing oral thrush.
How is oral thrush treated?
Treatment may involve antifungal medications such as oral gels or suspensions, lozenges, or in severe cases, oral antifungal tablets.
Are there any home remedies for oral thrush?
Home remedies such as saltwater rinses, probiotic yogurt, and maintaining good oral hygiene can help manage oral thrush, but medical treatment is often necessary for complete resolution.
Can oral thrush be prevented?
Preventive measures include maintaining good oral hygiene, promptly treating oral conditions, and managing any underlying medical conditions that increase the risk of developing oral thrush.
Can I buy oral thrush medications over the counter?
Some oral thrush medications are available over the counter, but it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
How long does it take for oral thrush to clear up?
The time taken for oral thrush to clear up varies depending on the severity of the infection and the chosen treatment method. Improvement is usually seen within a few days of starting treatment.
Is oral thrush a sign of HIV?
Oral thrush can be a sign of a weakened immune system, which could be due to conditions such as HIV. However, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and testing.
Can oral thrush go away on its own?
In some cases, mild oral thrush may resolve on its own. However, it's advisable to seek medical attention, especially if the symptoms persist or worsen.
Can oral thrush cause bad breath?
Yes, oral thrush can contribute to bad breath, often described as a 'yeasty' or 'bread-like' odor, due to the fungal overgrowth in the mouth.
Is oral thrush common in babies?
Yes, oral thrush is common in babies, especially during the first few months of life. It can also occur during breastfeeding and is easily treatable.
Can oral thrush cause throat pain?
Yes, oral thrush can cause throat pain, especially when swallowing, due to the presence of the lesions in the mouth and throat.
Can oral thrush lead to complications?
In some cases, if left untreated, oral thrush can lead to the spread of the infection, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems, leading to potential systemic complications.
Releated topics
- Are there non-prescription remedies for Erectile Dysfunction?
- Are there medications for pulmonary hypertension?
- How long do sexual side effects from SSRI medications last?
- What causes Hyperprolactinemia?
- Can I use over-the-counter pain relief for abnormal uterine bleeding?
- Do birth control methods have age restrictions?
- Does emergency contraception protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?
- Can stress impact female fertility?
- When can I start lactation suppression after giving birth?
- What are the available treatment options for oligospermia?
Information provided by Maryam Abdullahi-Mahdi. Reviewed by Mr. Matthew Liew