Everything That You Need to Know About Oral Thrush

Oral Thrush

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Oral thrush is a fungal infection of the mouth and throat caused by the yeast-like fungus Candida albicans. It is estimated that up to 75% of all adults have been affected by oral thrush at some point in their lives. Given how common it is, it’s in your best interest to be as informed as possible in order to manage total thrust in case you get it in the future. If this is something that you’re interested in learning more about, read on as we explain everything that you need to know about oral thrush.

What is Oral Thrush?

Oral thrush is a common yeast infection that affects the mouth and throat. It is caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans. This fungus is found naturally in the mouth, but in some cases it can overgrow and cause an infection. Symptoms of oral thrush include white patches on the inside of the mouth and throat, redness, soreness, and difficulty swallowing.

The most common cause of oral thrush is an imbalance in the natural bacteria in the mouth. This can be caused by certain medications, such as antibiotics, steroids, and certain chemotherapy drugs. Other causes include poor oral hygiene, smoking, and diabetes.

How Do You Treat Oral Thrush?

The good news is that oral thrush is usually easy to treat. The most common treatment is an antifungal medication, such as nystatin or clotrimazole, which can be taken orally or applied directly to the affected area. In some cases, a doctor may also prescribe a topical antifungal cream or ointment.

In addition to medication, there are also a few simple steps you can take to help prevent and treat oral thrush. The first is to practice good oral hygiene. This means brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and using a mouthwash that contains fluoride. It’s also important to rinse your mouth out with warm salt water several times a day.

It’s also important to avoid foods and drinks that are high in sugar, as this can feed the fungus and make the infection worse. Foods that are high in sugar include candy, cakes, cookies, and sugary drinks.

Finally, it’s important to keep your immune system strong. This means eating a healthy diet and getting plenty of rest and exercise. Taking a daily multivitamin can also help support your immune system.

By following these simple steps, you can help prevent and treat oral thrush. If the infection doesn’t go away with these treatments, it’s important to see your doctor for further evaluation and treatment.

Conclusion

We hope this article proves to be useful when it comes to helping you gain a better understanding of what oral thrush is and how to best manage it. Oral thrush is generally not a serious condition, but it can be uncomfortable and cause difficulty eating and speaking. If you think you may have oral thrush, it is important to see your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Fergus Pharmacy in Ontario is your go-to spot for all your health needs. Our trained staff is here to deliver quality care and advice. Whether it’s medication, medical supplies, or advice, you can trust us to provide what you need in a comfortable, friendly environment. The next time allergies happen, visit us at 500 Garafraxa Street East, Unit B Fergus, Ontario N1M 1E7!