Thrush is a condition in which yeast accumulates on the tongue or lining of the mouth. The Mayo Clinic reports that the fungus, Candida albicans is the most common source of thrush. Thrush may affect anyone, but is most common in infants, people who wear dentures, and those who have compromised immune systems or use corticosteroid inhalers. Disease like cancer, AIDS, diabetes and the presence of other yeast infections increase a person's likelihood of developing thrush. In healthy adults, treatment of thrush may only consist of eating plain yogurt in order to help restore the body's natural flora. In infants, nursing mothers or patients with compromised immune systems, treatment of thrush may include antifungal medications, creams, and mouth rinses.
Mouth Lesions
According to Medline Plus, thrush appears as white to yellowish, velvety lesions. Lesions may appear on the cheeks, gums, lips, tonsils, roof of the mouth and on the tongue. They be cottage cheese-like in appearance. In severe cases, the lesions may extend to the back of the throat and down the esophagus. The Mayo Clinic reports that treatment of thrush lesions may include an antifungal medication in the form of a lozenge, tablet, or liquid.
Pain and Bleeding
Lesions caused by thrush may be painful. The lesions cause delicate mouth tissues to become overly sensitive to hot or cold fluids and food. Medline Plus reports that irritated tissues may crack and bleed. People with thrush are encouraged to eat and drink room temperature food and fluids, and rinse the mouth thoroughly after eating or drinking.
Other Symptoms
According to the Mayo Clinic, other symptoms of thrush may include cracking at the corners of the mouth. Some people may experience a cottony feeling in the mouth or a loss of taste. As thrush spreads down into the esophagus, it creates a feeling that something is stuck in the throat, or swallowing can be difficult.
