Oral Thrush

Overview

Oral thrush, also known as oral candidiasis, is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans inside the mouth.

It often appears after antibiotic use, steroid inhalers, smoking, or when the immune system is weakened. While it can feel uncomfortable and sometimes embarrassing, the infection is usually harmless and responds quickly to antifungal treatment.

Symptoms

Oral thrush can affect the tongue, cheeks, roof of the mouth, and throat. Common symptoms include:

• White or creamy patches on the tongue, gums, or inside the cheeks
• Soreness or burning in the mouth
• Cracking at the corners of the lips (angular cheilitis)
• Altered taste or a cotton-like feeling in the mouth
• In more severe cases, pain when eating or swallowing

Diagnosis

Most cases are diagnosed based on your symptoms and medical history. A doctor or prescriber may also examine the mouth to confirm the presence of white patches that can be wiped off, often leaving a sore red surface beneath.

Recurrent or severe infections may require a swab or blood tests to check for underlying conditions.

Treatments

Oral thrush responds well to antifungal medicines, which stop the yeast from multiplying. At SwiftMedi, we offer:

• Nystatin oral suspension – a liquid that coats the inside of the mouth and throat, directly targeting infection.
• Fluconazole capsules – a once-daily tablet that works systemically, particularly useful for stubborn or recurrent cases.

Treatment usually lasts 7–14 days, with symptoms often improving within a few days.

Prevention

Simple steps can help reduce the risk of thrush coming back:

• Rinse your mouth after using steroid inhalers.
• Limit sugar intake, as yeast thrives on sugar.
• Maintain good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and dental check-ups.
• Avoid smoking, which increases risk.
• If wearing dentures, clean them daily and remove at night.

Misconceptions

“Oral thrush only happens to people with poor hygiene.”
Not true. It can affect anyone, especially after antibiotics, inhaler use, or illness.

“It’s contagious like a cold.”
Oral thrush is not usually contagious, though it can very occasionally pass through close contact like kissing.

“It will just clear on its own.”
Mild cases sometimes improve, but most people need antifungal treatment for reliable relief.

“If it comes back, it must be serious.”
Not always. Recurrent thrush can happen if underlying triggers aren’t managed, but most cases are not linked to serious illness.