Oral Thrush Home Remedies - The Infection of Mouth

An oral thrush is basically the infection of the mouth caused by a fungus called the Candida albicans. It is characterized by furry white plaques that adhere to the mucous membranes around the oral cavity. These plaques, if left untreated, may form bigger patches to ulcerations. These areas may include the tongue, which may bleed when it is scraped; the outer lips, which may appear cracked; or the gums and buccal cavity. Transmission of the bacteria may be from mouth – to – mouth transmission, or from concomitant diaper rash.

To diagnose that the oral thrush is indeed caused by the fungus Candida albicans a wet smear may be done. The procedure of choice to confirm the presence of Candida albicans is to culture the sample.

Typical signs and symptoms may be pain and sensitivity. There may also be a decrease in the patient's appetite. Irritability may also be evident with both adult and pediatric patients. If the patient is an infant and is breastfeeding, the mother's nipples may appear sore and red.

There are a number of treatments that a physician may offer the patient's watcher or the patient. A topical antifungal may be prescribed fro the diaper rash of the child. Treatment of the nipples may also be done for the prevention of another infection when planning to continue breastfeeding. The treatment can include the usage of nystatinn powder or a cream containing ciclopirox or an azole. Oral antifungals may also be administered. Generally a nystatin oral solution is administered. Instruct on the proper administration of antifungals and the site it is to be applied to. Studies has also shown that the use of clotrimazole troches is more convenient and effective when taken five times a day than with the use of a nystatin oral solution. For infections unresponsive to nystatin oral solutions then Gentian violet may be applied. Application of the medication should be done after eating or at least 20 minutes before feeding. Before administration, inform the parent or the patient that the medication will most probably stain clothing, teeth, and surrounding skin. Though it is washable when it stains body surfaces, though it may take some time to remove them, it might not hold true when clothing is stained. Washing nipples, pacifiers, baby bottles is also recommended to reduce or avoid the chance of reinfection.