Treating Thrush

Daily Health Solutions, Women's Health
on February 13, 2012

Thrush is one of the most common forms of fungal infection, which is caused by Candida albicans. This oral infection can spread very quickly and will persist over long periods of time without appropriate treatment. Candida albicans is the same fungus that is responsible for yeast infections and other such common fungal infections, and there is a possibility that the oral infection can spread to other parts of the body. Thrush will generally look like cottage cheese, or even have a somewhat moldy appearance and usually first appears in the back of the throat. According to the Mayo Clinic, “The goal of any oral thrush treatment is to stop the rapid spread of the fungus, but the best approach may depend on your age, your overall health and the cause of the infection.” Your doctor will be able to help you pinpoint the best options.

Home remedies. Gargling with warm salt water may help control the spread of thrush and is often recommended in conjunction with other treatments since there is no chance of salt interacting with antifungal drugs. Unsweetened yogurt may also help encourage the growth of good bacteria and other microorganisms in your digestive tract.

Medical treatments. The most common prescription for thrush is an antifungal agent, though in some cases the infection won’t completely respond to this. Especially if you’re immune-compromised, your doctor may opt for Amphotericin B in order to ensure the fastest possible infection control. This is also the second in line after normal antifungal treatments have failed.

Lifestyle considerations. Anything that you touch with infected parts of your body may be a potential source of re-infection after successful treatment. Make sure that all dentures or other mouthpieces are sterilized regularly, and change your toothbrush and other oral care items in a timely manner. During a thrush outbreak, you may want to consider changing to a cheap toothbrush that can be disposed of after the infection has cleared, and disinfect it in between brushing with an agent that’s safe to use on oral items, such as denture cleaner. Thoroughly clean any rinsing cups, waterpick ends, silverware and other such items that may re-infect you or spread the infection to other members of your household.