Oral thrush

Alternative names:

candidiasis - oral; moniliasis, oral

Treatment:

The goal of treatment is to control the rapid growth of Candida. Antifungal medications such as nystatin, clotrimazole, miconazole, etc. are given for 7 to 10 days. Underlying conditions/disorders should be identified and treated.

Good oral hygiene is important to aid healing. Patches may be gently brushed off with the toothbrush. Warm salt water rinses (1/2 teaspoon of salt in one cup of water) may be soothing.

Expectations (prognosis):

Oral thrush may be painful but is rarely serious. It can interfere with eating because of the discomfort. The infection is usually controlled with treatment, but it may recur. Thrush may spread to the palate, tongue, cheeks, or throat. Other spread of the infection is uncommon but it may occur.

Complications:

• insufficient nutrition
• esophagitis Candida
• spread of Candida to the gastrointestinal tract, lungs, skin, or other area

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of oral thrush develop.

If you have oral thrush, call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms worsen or persist despite treatment, symptoms recur, or new symptoms develop.