Thrush is fungal infection of the mouth caused by a fungus called Candida albicans. This is normally kept in check by the immune system. Thrush commonly occurs in infants, those with weakened immunity, diabetics and those on prolonged antibiotic treatment. The treatment depends on treating the condition that causes thrush and anti-fungal drugs in severe cases.
Infant Thrush Cures
Thrush commonly seen in infants generally resolves without any treatment in a span of two weeks. According to the Mayo Clinic, even the nursing mother needs to be treated.
Apply gentian violet locally on the nipples for four to seven days. In babies, thrush can also occur due to the use of the pacifiers and nipples, which may be the source of infection. Sterilize the feeding equipment, or replace it. After feeding the baby, give him water to rinse the remaining milk in his mouth. This will also decrease the fungus in the mouth.
Dietary Measures
For mild cases in adults, which occur after antibiotic use, give yogurt or acidophilus capsules. Yogurt introduces good bacteria in the gut that controls yeast growth. Doctors advise plenty of acidic liquids. An alternative antibiotic can be taken with your physician's aid. Use an anti-fungal mouthwash to rinse your mouth. Reduce sugary and yeast foods in the diet.
Anti-fungal drugs
Your doctor may suggest drugs called anti-fungal drugs. They can be used in the form of solution, mouth rinse, lozenges or tablets. Anti-fungal mouthwash like nystatin or clotrimazole should be swished in the mouth before swallowing. It should be used for five to 10 days.
Stronger drugs like ketoconazole or flucanozole are used as second-line drugs where nystatin does not work or when infection has spread to the food pipe or in individuals with HIV, according to the National Institutes of Health.
They are given in the form of tablets. Fluconazole is used to treat recurrent fungal infections. It stops the fungus from multiplying. These are given for up to two weeks. When a patient is taking these drugs, the doctor will suggest liver function tests, as the drugs can damage the liver.
Treat Underlying Cause
Denture wearers should clean and remove the dentures daily in the night, according to the Consumer Guide to Dentistry. They should use an antibiotic mouth rinse for cleaning the dentures or try new dentures.
Diabetics should have their blood sugar under check.
Thrush can occur in asthmatics after using inhalers. Rinse thoroughly after inhaling the medication. Listerine mouthwash should be used.
Those with oral thrush should maintain good orodental hygiene. People with thrush should use a soft brush for brushing and should floss regularly.
