Thrush is a fungal infection that is medically known as Candidiasis. The name comes because of the type of fungus that affects you, that is the Candida family of fungus. Candidiasis is easily treatable and is not a very threatening condition. In people with weak immune systems, however, it is a cause for concern. However it could raise an alarm if the infection has not been treated over a period of time and has been allowed to grow and spread.
Thrush presents itself in the form of redness and is accompanied by symptoms of itching and discomfort in the affected area. When you have a working immune system, thrush should be restricted to certain parts of the body that are affected by the infection. The oral cavity is where thrush is experienced. Other areas include the intestines, bladder or genitals. However, this is considered to be candidiasis and not thrush.
Thrush is caused by Candida yeast. Some may be surprised to learn that Candida yeast is present in nearly all healthy individuals and there are no symptoms associated with it because of the immune system functioning properly. When a person has a weak immune system, thrush may cause candidiasis all over the body and this is a dangerous situation. At the same time, other infections can also spread quickly in a person with a compromised immune system.
If you develop an inflammation in your throat or tongue and you suspect thrush you can visit your doctor for a diagnosis. Your doctor will swab the area and check for cultures of the Candida virus.
Thrush is treated medically. Oral thrush requires extremely good oral hygiene to be treated effectively. You should wash your mouth regularly, possibly with a medicated mouth wash added to the water. You should Brush your teeth twice a day and rinse your mouth immediately after eating. If you are suffering from discomfort you can drink cool liquids to temporarily ease your symptoms. You can also rinse your mouth thoroughly with warm salted water. Just as you would gargle for a sore throat with this mixture, you could gargle your mouth and spit out the water. Wash your mouth with plain water 5 minutes after salt gargling.
Gentian violet is another alternative to use to treat thrush. However, it is not recommended for infants and must be taken very carefully as it can cause complications. Excessive usage has been linked to cancer. This method can be adopted if the thrush is resistant to antifungal drugs.
answered by M W