Yeast Infection of the Mouth

Overgrowth and spread of candida fungus can result to yeast infection of the mouth. Candida fungus, which is commonly referred to as yeast, affects other parts of the body causing various forms of yeast infection such as vaginal candidal infection in women as well as diaper rash in infants.

Anyone can get thrush yeast infection of the mouth. However, the highly susceptible individuals include infants and toddlers, older individuals as well as people whose immune systems are weakened.

Causes of Yeast Infections of the Mouth

Candida fungus naturally occurs in small amounts in various parts of our body. It is found in the mouth and throat, skin, digestive tract and the vagina. It is kept in check by a corresponding number of beneficial bacteria. However, there are external as well as internal vectors that can alter this balanced state between these harmful organisms and the beneficial ones.

There are certain medical problems and medications that trigger yeast infections. These medications alter the balanced state of the beneficial organisms and the pathogenic bacteria inside the mouth. This condition is the underlying cause of thrush. Examples of these medications are antibiotics, corticosteroids and contraceptive pills.

On the other hand, the illnesses and medical conditions that can give rise to yeast infections of the mouth include HIV infection, diabetes, cancer and pregnancy. Heavy smokers as well those individuals who wear poorly fitting dentures also have higher chances of developing thrush. Interestingly, even infants who are infected with thrush can also pass on the infection to their nursing mothers.

Signs and Symptoms of Yeast Infection of the Mouth

The typical yeast infection of the mouth symptoms includes the presence of whitish skin lesions inside the mouth which normally affects the inner checks and the tongue. In some case of yeast infections of the mouth, the skin lesions can also be found in the palate, gums and extend up to the back of the throat and the tonsils.

This type of candidal infection breaks out abruptly without initial signs and can easily become recurrent type of fungal infection affecting the mouth and other areas of the body over a longer time period.

In the severe types of the candidal infection, the skin lesions that are associated with the condition will also affect the esophagus which will result to the following:

• Difficulty and pain in swallowing

• Discomfort in passing food along the throat and mid-chest part

• Fever, when the candidal infection reaches the esophagus

If the condition remains untreated, the yeast infection of the mouth will eventually affect other vital organs of the body as it continues to proliferate and infect the lungs, skin and liver. This advanced and more severe case of candidal infection is more common in individuals who are diabetic, HIV-positive and those whose medical conditions is associated with compromised immune system. 

Treatment of Thrush Yeast Infection of the Mouth

Most cases of yeast infection of the mouth can be easily and effectively managed and controlled through various treatment options. However, the infection may present challenges, particularly those that are concerned with the control and management of associated signs and symptoms, if the individual has compromised immune system.

The treatment regimen for yeast infection of the mouth will normally require 10 to 14 days treatment protocol using antifungal preparations that are prescribed by a doctor or sold over the counter. The forms of antifungal medications used in treating candidal infection in the mouth include liquids, lozenges and tablets.