Thrush, also known as oral candidiasis, is a mycosis that affects the mouth region caused by the fungus Candida albicans.
Thrush, also known as oral candidiasis, is a ringworm that affects the mouth area. Furthermore, it is caused by the fungus called Candida albicans.
When there is a failure in our immune system, this fungus has a tendency to multiply and be capable of causing a disease. Therefore, it deceives those who think that it does not cause diseases in a healthy individual, as all it takes is a drop in immunity and it starts to act.
Therefore, in today’s article we will learn what thrush is, causes, symptoms, treatment and a specific summary of oral candidiasis in babies.
What is Thrush
As seen, thrush is an infectious disease caused by the fungus Candida albicans. Although it occurs mainly in the mouth, if not cured at first, it can spread and, consequently, cause multiple organ failure.
Therefore, this disease occurs in the following individuals:
- Babies;
- People with immune system deficiencies;
- Elderly people with dental prostheses.
Additionally, the Candida fungus can be found normally in the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, the diagnosis made through the culture of the fungus obtained by scraping the lesions is not considered efficient, since the fungus is already found in our body.
Causes of Thrush
The immune system of healthy people is capable of defending itself against some fungi, and one of them is the Candida fungus, responsible for thrush. However, people who do not have a good immune system are subject to this type of disease. As seen previously, these are babies, elderly people and immunocompromised people.
Furthermore, there are some chemical treatments that facilitate the development of the fungus. In other words, they affect the oral mucosa and thus weaken it. Being them:
However, in babies the causes are different. A rare case is that the Candida fungus can be transmitted through childbirth, when passing through the vaginal canal. However, the most frequent and normal cause of thrush is the baby’s contact with a bottle or pacifier, where the fungus may be present.
Furthermore, if the mother is taking antibiotics and the baby is still breastfeeding, the risk of the fungus proliferating is greater.
Symptoms of Thrush
With a lack of oral hygiene, it can be seen that a white coating appears on the oral mucosa. However, if this coating does not come off when you brush your teeth, you can see a doctor because you have thrush. Therefore, the disease may present the following symptoms:
- The first characteristic of thrush is inflammation of the mucosa;
- The oral wall is covered with a whitish layer: on the wall of the cheeks, tongue and throat. Therefore, the tongue is often white, which may be partially or completely;
- Sore throat;
- If the thrush has spread to the esophagus, it is possible to notice difficulty swallowing both food and saliva;
- Dry mouth;
- Bad breath;
- Loss of taste or an abnormal sensation in the mouth;
- Fissures and cracks in the lips.
In babies, thrush can be identified by the following symptoms:
- Just like adults, it is possible to see white plaques in the mouth. However, these plaques can be confused with leftover milk, and therefore deserve full attention;
- Constant crying;
- Fever above 38ºC;
- Pain, in some cases;
- Just like in adults, the fungus can spread to the esophagus, making it difficult for them to swallow.
Thrush Treatment
This disease is treated with the application of a local antifungal in the form of a liquid, cream or gel, such as nystatin or miconazole.
However, if thrush is not treated quickly and it expands into the esophagus, systemic treatment will be necessary. Therefore, the doctor will prescribe an oral antifungal, such as fluconazole.
In babies, treatment is also carried out with a local antifungal. However, the ideal is to see a pediatrician.
Furthermore, there are also some home remedies to treat oral candidiasis. See below:
- Salt water gargle;
- Milk with honey (to soothe a sore throat);
- Application of gauze soaked in pomegranate tea. Pomegranate helps to disinfect the baby’s mouth, as it has antiseptic properties.
Thrush Prevention
Next, we’ll look at some prevention tips:
- To prevent the proliferation of fungi, people who wear dentures should clean them frequently and carefully;
- It is important to start treating vaginal mycoses as soon as they are discovered;
- Adopt excellent dental hygiene. Additionally, visit your dentist regularly.
However, in babies, the following precautions must be taken:
- Every day for 20 minutes, boil pacifiers and toys that the baby puts in his mouth;
- After a week of use, pacifiers and bottles should be replaced;
- Wash all clothes with a cup of vinegar. This way, it is possible to eliminate the fungus from them;
- Wash your hands frequently, especially after diaper changes. However, do not wash with antibacterial soap, as it can kill good bacteria;
- Make it a routine to dry your hands with paper towels and discard them after each use;
- Whenever possible, leave the baby without a diaper;
Petit Papillon Baby & Child
So, now that you know everything about this disease, also find out about treatments for white teeth.
Sources: Cria Saúde, Colgate, Tua Saúde
Images: MD.Saúde, Tua Saúde, Lift, Sorrisologia, Portal Avôvó, Petit Papillon Bebê & Criança, Gestação Bebê
