What is oral thrush?

It occurs because of yeast infection which develops on the inside of mouth and tongue. This condition is also known as Oropharyngeal candidiasis. It most commonly occurs in infants and toddlers.

Causes

It is caused by Candida albicans fungus but the small amount of this function normally lives in the mouth without causing harm. When it starts to grow uncontrollably, an infection develops in your mouth.

Symptoms

In its initial stages, it may not cause any symptoms. However with the time, following symptoms may develop:

• Creamy white bumps on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, or tonsils
• Slight bleeding when the bumps are scraped
• Pain at the site of the bumps
• Dry, cracked skin at the corners of the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing

In infants, it may cause

• Difficulty feeding
• Fussiness
• Irritability

Babies who have oral thrush can pass it to their mothers by breastfeeding. If you are breastfeeding and your breasts become infected with the fungus, you may experience:

• Intense itching, sensitivity, or pain in the nipples
• Flaking or shiny on the area surrounding the nipple
• Severe pain during breastfeeding
• Sharp, piercing pain in the breast

Diagnosis

It can be diagnosed by simply examining the mouth and tongue for the characteristic white bumps. In some cases, the doctor may take a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends on age and overall health. There are several medications for oral thrush depending upon the intensity of infection. It usually goes away within a couple of weeks.