How to treat oral thrush to prevent recurrence
Jan 24, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
Oral thrush is usually associated with factors such as inadequate oral hygiene, malnutrition, improper medication use, Candida infection, and immune system abnormalities. Treatment involves maintaining proper oral hygiene, adopting a balanced diet, disinfecting personal items, and, when necessary, using topical or systemic antifungal medications. However, medication should be taken strictly as directed by a physician, and regular follow-ups are required.
Normally, thrush is an inflammation of the oral mucosa caused by a fungal infection of Candida in the mouth and throat. Thrush isn't absolutely non-recurrent during treatment. It's usually associated with factors such as inadequate oral hygiene, malnutrition, improper medication use, Candida infection, and immune system abnormalities. After diagnosis, general treatment and drug therapy can be used to reduce the recurrence rate. If the condition is severe, timely medical treatment is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Inadequate Oral Hygiene
If oral hygiene is neglected and bacteria remain in the mouth, it may increase the risk of oral infection, thus causing thrush. Therefore, maintaining good oral hygiene is important. Rinsing the mouth with warm water or saline solution regularly is recommended. Alternatively, you may gently wipe the affected area with a clean towel soaked in warm water to reduce the risk of cross-infection.
2. Malnutrition
Long-term malnutrition, such as deficiencies in vitamin B2, vitamin C, etc., without timely supplementation, may reduce the resistance of the oral mucosa, thus triggering thrush. It may even lead to physical fatigue and poor mental condition. If supplementary food is added, reasonable feeding should be emphasized. Choose bland, soft, and easily digestible foods, such as rice porridge, thin gruel, noodles, etc., to reduce irritation to the oral mucosa and alleviate pain.
3. Improper Medication Use
Long-term use of antibiotics or glucocorticoids can disrupt the microbial balance in the mouth, leading to the appearance of white spots or patches on the oral mucosa, which increases the likelihood of developing thrush. If the condition is determined to be related to medication, the drug should be discontinued or the dosage reduced as advised by a physician.
4. Candida Infection
Infection with Candida albicans is one of the causes of thrush. This pathogen repeatedly irritates the oral mucosa, causing inflammation that gradually develops into thrush. It may even cause symptoms such as fever and dizziness. If the thrush is severe, it is recommended to follow medical advice for local application of medications, such as applying miconazole nitrate solution, compound clotrimazole solution, compound chlorhexidine mouthwash, etc., to the oral mucosa, tongue surface, and gums to inhibit the growth and reproduction of pathogenic fungi.
5. Immune System Abnormalities
Abnormalities in the immune system can damage body organs, including the mouth, kidneys, etc., which may also increase the risk of developing thrush. Symptoms may include rashes, joint pain, etc. Treatment may follow medical guidance using medications such as methylprednisolone sodium succinate for injection, dexamethasone sodium phosphate injection, spleen aminopeptide lyophilized powder for oral use, etc.
It should be noted that the treatment of thrush should be decided based on the severity and progression of the condition, avoiding self-medication. During treatment, regular follow-up visits are necessary to adjust the treatment plan promptly.
