When you think of a yeast infection the first thing that may come to mind is a vaginal infection, but the fact is they can occur on all areas of the body. One type of infection that may be particularly bothersome is the oral yeast infection.

Candida is a fungus that causes an oral yeast infection by invading the oral cavity of a person who has a weakened immune system. This would include infants and those people who have suffered any chronic illness.

What causes an oral yeast infection?

Oral yeast infections are caused by someone not having enough of the good bacteria in their body to fight bad bacteria. Most people who have these sort of problems are either chronically ill or infants.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms of an oral yeast infection usually will come on pretty suddenly and will have lingering affects if let go. It is important that you recognize the symptoms of this infection immediately.

The first thing that you will experience from an oral yeast infection is a thick white liquid covering your tongue and inner cheeks. Lesions can form on the inside of your mouth and back of the oral cavity.

Lesions discharging a thick and clumpy liquid with begin forming in your mouth. This will be followed by some blood and a lot of pain. You may run a fever or have a hard time swallowing shortly thereafter.

An oral yeast infection can quickly get out of control if left untreated. This could lead to more serious diseases from this fungal infection travels into the body through the throat.

What does diagnosis involve?

As soon as you see your first signs of thrush you will need to see your dentist. They can perform various tests in order to determine whether or not you have this infection. The test may include a sample of the lesions being viewed under a microscope, or even an x-ray. Your doctor will then talk to you about your treatment plans.

Treatments

Treating an oral yeast infection is easy as long as you catch it quickly. The symptoms are commonly controlled by a simple antifungal medicine which comes in the form of pills or liquid. Probiotic yogurt may also be very effective in treating oral yeast infections.

People who develop thrush generally have underlying health issues. If you have developed this infection you will want to make an appointment with your family physician to find the cause of your compromised immune system.

The best way to eliminate the chances of oral yeast infections is by taking preventive measures. Always follow good oral hygiene and avoid foods with a lot of yeast in them. These foods will cause yeast infections in your oral cavity and digestive system.

Anyone can develop an oral yeast infection, but with a little bit of prevention and a whole lot of treatment you will be symptom free in no time at all.