Fungal infection of the mouth is the colloquial term for the medical condition known as, 'candidiasis' or 'oral thrush'. It is the name given to any infection which is caused by fungi of the Candida culture. Candida yeast is normally present in the human body. Their growth is contained by other bacteria that co-exist with them or by the defense mechanisms of the human immune system. The condition results when the immunity of the patient goes low and these fungi go unchecked. They then form a layer on the surface of the mouth, chiefly the tongue and the palate. This must be shown to the doctor immediately as it may be indicative of a viral infection or an allied sickness. Moreover, HIV infection also cannot be ruled out. Low immunity may also result from the consumption of steroids and other drugs which suppress the immune system. If the situation isn't remedied by providing immediate medical help, the condition may deteriorate further so the patient must rush to the doctor immediately. In such cases, only medical advice should be taken and home remedies should be generally avoided. If a viral infection is ruled out, only then should home remedies be resorted to. Also, while using home remedies, one need to be consistent and must discontinue its use if the condition is aggravated.
Hygiene is the most important as well as the simplest remedy for any kind of mouth infections. You must gargle your mouth after meals and brush your teeth in the morning as well as before going to bed. You may also rub your gums and the insides of your mouth with salt from time to time and subsequently gargle with water. Salt is a natural disinfectant and an excellent fungicidal. A mouth wash involving gargling with potassium permanganate crystals dissolved in hot water is also known to help. Potassium permanganate has the same properties like salt. A little glycerin mixed with rose water, when used as a mouth wash gives good results. The leaves of the holy basil plant can be either eaten raw or can be drunk by preparing a decoction with holy basil leaves and water. It is known to keep mouth infections at bay.
answered by G R