Tips on Yeast Infection of the Mouth

Yeast infection of the mouth is when the mouth develops an infection in the mucous membranes. There can be many causes for this condition. It can be caused by fungus, bacteria, or disease of some kind. The most common cause of yeast infection of the mouth is the fungus Candida albicans. In infants it is called Thrush and in adult’s this type of infection in the mouth and throat is called Candidiasis or momiliasis.

Candida, also known as Monilia occurs naturally in the body and resembles yeast. It can be found in the digestive tract as well as in the vaginal area of women. Vaginal yeast infections are caused by the same Candida that causes yeast infections of the mouth. Theses infections occur when the normally small number of Candida start multiplying rapidly. The fungi then attack the areas of the mouth and throat causing some burning and painful symptoms.

There are many reasons that the overgrowth of Candida can cause yeast infection of the mouth. Among these are taking antibiotics or drug treatments like chemotherapy. Theses treatments make the body more susceptible to Candida growth, by lowering the good bacteria that keeps the candida in check.

Older people and babies are more susceptible to yeast infections of the mouth because of weaker immune systems, this can be caused by Diabetes, malnutrition, drug abuse. Their immune systems are just not strong enough to withstand major changes in the environment that allows the overgrowth of Candida.

Poorly fitting dentures have also been found to be a cause of yeast infection on the mouth. Dentures that do not fit properly may damage the mucous membranes in the mouth, which allows an avenue of entrance for the Candida.

Yeast infections of the mouth sometimes have discharges that range from white to cream colored. Yellow spots can sometimes be observed this indicates a chronic condition of yeast infection of the mouth. This can be very uncomfortable for the sufferer since oral yeast infections cause burning sensations in the mouth and throat.

Depending on the cause the first step towards treating yeast infection of the mouth is to get the excessive growth of bacteria under control, if dentures are the problem a new pair that fits properly will fix the problem. If the problem is a compromised immune system then it is more difficult but Doctors will be able to find a way around it.

For further treatment of yeast infection of the mouth you will be prescribed antifungal drugs to help eliminate the fungi from your mouth and throat. The most common way to do this is in the form of pastilles you suck on the lozenges and it acts directly on the oral infection.

There are cases of chronic ongoing yeast infection of the mouth that is advanced to the point where the lozenges will not help. There are other treatment options that can be used and your physician will be able to judge which treatment is best for your condition.