Open Source Health|

What causes thrush and its disgusting effects on the oral cavity?  Thrush is caused by yeast, commonly referred to as candida fungus.  Small amounts of candida fungus reside in the digestive tract, skin, as well as the mouth.  Small amounts of candida fungus are normal; however, certain illnesses, stress, and/or medications can cause the candida fungus to grow out of control, which results in thrush.

Thrush can develop over a period of time or it can develop suddenly.  Either way, thrush can become a serious problem and cause numerous health issues.  Thrush presents itself as slightly raised lesions that appear on the tongue, cheeks, roof of the mouth, gums, back of the throat, and/or the tonsils.  These lesions are a creamy white color that most often resemble cottage cheese.  These lesions are very painful and may bleed when they are touched or rubbed.  It is also possible to have thrush on the esophagus as a result of the infection spreading.

Thrush also has the ability to spread to other parts of the body including the skin, liver, and lungs; however, thrush in these areas of the body are more common in those people with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), cancer, and other conditions that weaken the immune system.

Once diagnosed with thrush it is time to determine the cause of the thrush and the steps needed to cure the thrush.  A dentist can diagnose thrush by thoroughly examining the mouth, tongue, and cheeks.  During the examination the dentist will be looking for white, raised lesions.  A portion of the tissue from the lesion will be removed and examined under a microscope.  At this time a diagnosis of thrush infection can be confirmed.

Thrush can occur in anyone including babies, toddlers, older adults, and those persons with a lowered immune system; however, thrush symptoms are more commonly diagnosed in babies and toddlers.  Older adults who are diagnosed with thrush are usually taking medications which upset the balance of the microorganisms within the mouth.  Some medications which may contribute to thrush include:

• Antibiotics
• Corticosteroids
• Birth control pills

Certain illnesses and health problems can also contribute to the diagnosis of thrush infection.  Some of the most common illnesses and health problems include:

• Uncontrolled diabetes
• AIDS
• Cancer
• Dry mouth
• Pregnancy
• Hormonal changes

Another cause of thrush is a result of smoking and using tobacco products.  The use of tobacco products dries out the mouth, which promotes the growth of bacteria within the mouth.  Persons who wear dentures which do not fit properly are also at an increased risk of getting thrush.  Lastly, mothers who are breast feeding are increasing their risk of getting an infection from their children, even if no signs of thrush are visible.