Oral thrush in adults treatment

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Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.

Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.

Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.

Learn about Oral thrush in adults

Oral thrush, also known as oropharyngeal candidiasis, is a fungal infection inside the mouth caused by the overgrowth of Candida, a type of yeast. It commonly affects infants but isn’t limited to them; many adults experience this uncomfortable condition too. Its prevalence is significantly higher among individuals with weakened immune systems, denture wearers, and those undergoing antibiotic or corticosteroid therapies which can disrupt the natural balance of microorganisms in the mouth.

Causes

The primary cause of oral thrush is the fungus Candida albicans. While this yeast is normally present in small amounts in the mouth and other areas of the body, certain conditions can lead to its overgrowth. These include compromised immunity, changes in the oral environment, certain medications like antibiotics that kill off the good bacteria, and health conditions such as diabetes which can alter the sugar balance in the saliva, providing a more conducive environment for yeast growth.

Signs and symptoms

- White, creamy spots or patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, or tonsils - Redness or soreness in the mouth and throat - Cracking at the corners of the mouth - Difficulty swallowing - A feeling of cotton in the mouth - Loss of taste or an unpleasant taste in the mouth

Diagnosing Oral thrush in adults

Diagnosing oral thrush typically involves a thorough examination of the mouth and a review of the patient's medical history. Healthcare providers might also take a small sample from the mouth's lesions to examine under a microscope or culture in a lab to confirm the presence of Candida fungus. This helps distinguish it from other conditions that might cause similar symptoms.

Prevention and natural treatment

Preventing oral thrush centers on maintaining good oral hygiene and a healthy balance of microorganisms in the body. This includes regular brushing and flossing, limiting sugar intake, and avoiding mouthwashes or sprays that can alter the mouth's normal flora. For those with a high risk of developing thrush, such as denture wearers, ensuring proper denture fit and hygiene is essential. When it comes to treatment, functional medicine offers several natural remedies aimed at restoring the natural balance and health of the mouth. These include: - Probiotics: Consuming probiotic-rich foods or supplements to support the growth of healthy bacteria in the mouth and gut. - Coconut oil pulling: Swishing coconut oil in the mouth for a few minutes daily can help reduce the presence of Candida. - Limiting sugar: Since Candida feeds on sugar, reducing sugar intake can help limit its growth. - Herbal rinses: Tea tree oil, peppermint, and thyme can have antifungal properties when used as mouth rinses, but they should be diluted and used cautiously. - Garlic and turmeric: Both have natural antifungal properties and can be included in the diet for general health benefits and to combat yeast overgrowth. It's important to address the underlying causes of oral thrush, such as immune system issues or poorly controlled diabetes, to prevent recurrence. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment to ensure it's safe and appropriate for your specific situation.

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