subject: Thrush in Adults - Why You Should Avoid Drugs When Treating Oral Thrush [print this page] Thrush in Adults - Why You Should Avoid Drugs When Treating Oral Thrush
Oral thrush in adults is most commonly the end product of an prodigious build up of a fungus called Candida in the mouth. It is easily identified by white lesions on the tongue and cheek that ache.
Although this infection can affect anyone it is more likely to trouble those with dentures, anemia, diabetes or a weakened immune system which can make it harder to treat. In some extreme cases the infection can spread to the oesophagus and consequently your medical practicioner may perform a throat culture to figure out what specific bacteria are causing the infection, in general Candida bacteria that spread to the esophagus should be treated without delay.
Symptoms may not become apparent right away but appear abruptly and last for a prolonged period. Initial indication of an oral thrush infection will be white lesions, which typically have a cottage cheese like quality, that coat the tongue and inner cheeks before growing to the roof of the mouth, gums and tonsils. Cracking at the corners of your mouth, difficulty in tasting, a dry mouth and pain are additional symptoms. In very severe cases that affect your oesophagus then it will be difficult to swallow.
Antibiotics, which affect the balance of micro organisms in the immune system, can increase the possibility of developing thrush. In a similar way complexes such as HIV/AIDS impairs the immune system and opens you up to opportunistic infections like thrush. Chemotherapy following cancer treatment can also imperil your immune system which boosts your chance of developing thrush. For individuals with diabetes, your saliva can contain sugars and this can provide an ideal environment for candida to flourish.
Except in the case of severe oesophagul infections natural remedies afford you the best chance of long-lasting results. Most often, doctors will advocate the use of an antifungal prescription but the danger is that certain antifungal medications can cause liver damage. Oral solutions and sprays can alter the proportion of flora in the mouth and should be steered clear of. The best way to approach the situation is to try and build up the natural internal bacteria balance of your body by eating unsweetened yoghurt and acidophilus tablets. Likewise, limiting the amount of sugar and yeast containing foods in your diet, you can help to ward off thrush.
Other simple home remedies such as gargling with salt and water, cleaning your teeth twice a day, flossing once a day and switching your toothbrush often until the candida is gone are good safeguards to take. Also, try sloshing a half tablespoon of extra virgin coconut oil around your mouth for several minutes and then spit it out. You can also add three drops of tea tree oil into warm water and do the same thing. These natural remedies are always a more suitable choice when it comes to remedying oral thrush because of the health dangers connected with using antifungal medications.
