Oral Thrush

The good news is, effective relief is closer than you think. For those struggling with oral thrush, our selection of oral thrush treatments offer a practical way to manage and overcome your oral thrush infection. At Pharmacy Online, we're here to help you find the right oral thrush medication to get back to feeling your best.

Understanding Oral Thrush

While it's a common yeast infection, oral thrush is more than just a nuisance; it's a signal from your body that something is out of balance.

What is oral thrush?

Oral thrush, medically known as oropharyngeal candidiasis, is a fungal infection that occurs when the yeast Candida albicans accumulates on the lining of your mouth.

Candida is a normal organism that naturally resides in your mouth and digestive tract, but sometimes it can overgrow and cause symptoms. Oral thrush can affect anyone, but it is more common in babies, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems i.e. those going through cancer treatment, or certain health conditions.

What causes oral thrush?

Oral thrush is primarily caused by an imbalance that allows the Candida yeast to grow more than usual. Several factors can contribute to this imbalance:

• Antibiotic use: Taking Antibiotics can kill off healthy bacteria in the mouth, which can disrupt the balance of microorganisms and allow Candida to overgrow.
• Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to infections, including oral thrush. This includes individuals with HIV/AIDS, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, or those taking immunosuppressive drugs.
• Diabetes: High sugar levels in the saliva of people with uncontrolled diabetes can encourage the growth of Candida.
• Dentures: If you wear dentures and they're ill fitting, this can create areas where Candida can accumulate and overgrow.
• Dry mouth: Conditions or medications that reduce saliva flow can increase the risk of oral thrush, as saliva helps keep Candida growth in check.
• Inhaled corticosteroids: People who use inhaled corticosteroids for asthma without rinsing their mouths afterward can have an increased risk of developing oral thrush.

Common oral thrush symptoms

The symptoms of oral thrush can include:

• White patches: Creamy, white patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, roof of the mouth, gums, tonsils, or back of your throat.
• Redness or soreness: Areas of redness and soreness that may be painful and cause difficulty eating or swallowing.
• Cracking and redness at the corners of the mouth: Also known as angular cheilitis.
• Loss of taste: Some people may experience a loss of taste or an unpleasant taste in the mouth.
• Cottony feeling: A sensation of having cotton in your mouth.
• Difficulty swallowing: In severe cases, the oesophagus may be affected, leading to pain or difficulty swallowing.

If you suspect you have oral thrush, it's important to seek treatment, as the condition can spread and lead to complications, especially in people with weakened immune systems.

When to see a doctor

While mild cases of oral thrush can often be managed with over-the-counter treatments, there are certain symptoms that warrant a visit to the doctor to get your oral thrush diagnosed and prescribed stronger antifungal medication.

These include:

• Symptoms that persist despite over-the-counter treatment.
• Difficulty swallowing or feeling as if food is stuck in your throat.
• Spreading of the white lesions to other parts of the body.
• Recurring episodes of oral thrush.

Why see a doctor?

Seeking professional medical advice can provide several benefits:

• Accurate diagnosis: A healthcare provider can confirm that your symptoms are indeed caused by oral thrush and not another condition.
• Tailored treatment: They can prescribe medication that is more effective for your specific situation, especially if over-the-counter options haven't helped.
• Underlying conditions: A doctor can check for any underlying health issues that might be contributing to your oral thrush, ensuring you receive comprehensive care.

Treatments for Oral Thrush

Treatments for oral thrush offer a convenient and effective way to combat this condition. These antifungal remedies work by directly targeting the Candida yeast, helping to reduce symptoms quickly.

At Pharmacy Online, we understand the discomfort and inconvenience oral thrush can cause. That's why we offer a variety of medications to treat oral thrush in adults and children.

This includes Nystatin oral suspension, a prescription-only medication that's part of the antifungal, antibiotic family. This treatment is renowned for its effectiveness in both treating and preventing oral thrush. We also have Fluconazole and Daktarin Sugar Free 2% Oral Gel 15g.

How to choose the right oral thrush treatment

Selecting the appropriate treatment depends on several factors, including the severity of your symptoms and your age. Our pharmacists are on hand to offer advice and ensure you pick the most suitable option.

Oral thrush and babies

Oral thrush in babies can affect both the infant and the breastfeeding mother.

If your baby develops oral thrush, you might notice they are unsettled, especially during feeding, due to mouth pain. The white coating in their mouth associated with thrush can sometimes be mistaken for milk residue but unlike milk, these patches don't easily wipe away.

Breastfeeding mothers can also be affected by thrush, developing symptoms on your nipples or in the breast. You might experience nipple soreness, itching, or a burning sensation, making breastfeeding painful. In some cases, the yeast can lead to a deep breast infection, which may cause pain during and after feeding.

The Candida fungus can be passed between your baby's mouth and your nipples. It's important for both you and your baby to be treated simultaneously to break this cycle of reinfection. Treatment typically involves antifungal medication for both your baby's mouth and your nipples.

If you suspect that you or your baby has thrush, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. With prompt and proper care, thrush can be quickly managed, allowing you and your baby to continue breastfeeding comfortably.

Buy oral thrust treatment online from Pharmacy Online

At Pharmacy Online, we're committed to providing not only the best oral thrush treatments but also comprehensive support and advice. Our pharmacists are ready to assist you in choosing the right treatment and offer tips for prevention and care.

Browse our selection of oral thrush treatments today and take the first step towards a more comfortable, healthier mouth. Trust Pharmacy Online for all your oral health needs.

For further assistance or to consult with our pharmacists, contact us or visit our FAQ section for more information.