Q: I understand there are mouthwashes or lozenges for mouth thrush. Do you know of any over-the-counter products for this and is there any other way of treating the thrush on my tongue?
A: Thrush is brought on by a yeast infection known as candida albicans. It can present in the mouth and elsewhere — such as causing diaper rash in babies, or a vaginal yeast infection in women. It is rather common in individuals who wear dentures, in those who have a compromised immune system, in those with dry mouth diseases, in people taking antibiotics and following radiation to the mouth area.
The candida fungus is present in the mouth, digestive tract and skin of most healthy individuals and is kept in check by other bacteria and microorganisms present. However, when specific illnesses, medications or stress disrupt the balance, the candida grows out of control, resulting in thrush. As I have often said, the body is a well-balanced unit when everything runs according to plan but when it doesn’t, problems can occur. For example, medications such as antibiotics, corticosteroids and birth control pills are known for disrupting specific bodily function balances. Those individuals at increased risk include smokers, diabetics, denture wearers, cancer patients who are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, and others.
Symptoms may develop rather suddenly and include oral lesions creamy white in color that take on an appearance of cottage cheese. There may be pain and bleeding if the lesions are scraped inadvertently, the corners of the mouth may be red and cracked, and there may be a loss of taste.
Diagnosis is commonly made by a health care provider examining the inside of the mouth. When questions remain, a tissue sample may be taken for viewing under a microscope. Should the thrush extend into the esophagus, a throat culture may be ordered or an endoscopic exam may be performed.
On the home front, unsweetened yogurt or acidophilus taken in liquid or capsule form might help bring things under control. While these products will not destroy the fungus present, they will help restore normal bacterial flora in the body. Salt water rinses several times a day might also help. Simply dissolve ½ teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Swish the liquid around in your mouth but do not swallow it. Spit it out and repeat the process until you have emptied the glass. Gentian violet 1% is purported to kill bacteria and fungi and is available without prescription, as is diluted 3% hydrogen peroxide. Commercial mouthwashes should probably be avoided, since they can alter the normal balance of flora in your mouth. Tea tree oil, oregano, clove and lavender may have sufficient anti-infection elements that can relieve your symptoms. You can either add a small drop of any of these oils to your toothpaste before brushing or make a mouthwash solution by mixing two drops in a glass of warm water. Gargle two to three times daily. Boric acid is also considered a natural home remedy for thrush. Mix one cup water with l/4 teaspoon only as a mouthwash. Do not swallow the solution because it is an acid and even this small amount may upset the stomach. Boric acid powder can be purchased at Wal*Mart stores nationwide. One half cup water with one tablespoon of unfiltered, raw apple cider vinegar might also help. It should be available through your local grocery store. The product contains ingredients that may improve the immune system.
When all else fails at home and it’s time to visit your doctor, prescription antifungal medication might be appropriate, particularly for those with a weakened immune system. On the downside, some antifungals may cause liver damage necessitating periodic blood testing. Your physician may choose to prescribe nystatin which is a mouthwash, or lozenges such as Mycelex for short-term use.
In terms of prevention, add unsweetened yogurt to your regular diet and be sure to take acidophilus if you are on an antibiotic regimen. Avoid sugar and products containing yeast, both of which can encourage the growth of candida. Use a soft toothbrush and if you wear dentures, keep them clean. Be sure to speak with your health care provider or dentist before initiating any home remedies.