Thrush is a fungal infection in the mouth. The fungus Candida albicans, which naturally occurs in the mouth, begins to overgrow along the mucous membrane lining, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Risk factors for developing thrush include a having suppressed immune system due to chemotherapy or AIDS, or from using medications such as inhaled steroids or antibiotics. Treatments for thrush include proper oral hygiene and anti-fungal medications. The symptoms of thrush may develop suddenly and can stay for an extended period, depending on the cause of the condition and the health of the individual.
Mouth Lesions
Thrush can cause a white coating to form inside the mouth. The white patches may appear on the cheeks, tongue, gums and along the roof of the mouth. The white growth may appear smooth or can have a cottage cheese-like appearance. When scraped, the coating does not come away from the surface of the mouth. In severe cases of thrush, the white lesions can spread down the throat and cause difficulty when swallowing, according to MayoClinic.com. As the condition progresses, the white sores can increase in size and number.
Pain
The mouth sores caused by thrush can cause pain. An infant with the condition may have trouble when attempting to eat. Thrush may also cause a burning sensation inside the mouth or down the throat, according to the website Skinsight. Painful cracks may also form in the corners of the mouth.
Bleeding
When attempting to scrape the white coating from the mouth or tongue, the underlying tissue may appear beefy and red. The scraping may cause bleeding to occur in the area or cause bleeding sores to form.
Decreased Taste and Sensation
Some individuals may experience a decreased ability to taste foods due to the white growths covering the surface of the tongue. The lesions may also cause a cottony, dry feeling in the mouth.
