Thrush Cure

Thrush, which otherwise known as yeast infection or candidiasis is caused by certain types of fungi. Read on to know more about how to cure this condition.
Thrush is a fungal infection, which is mainly caused by Candida albicans, but, in some rare cases, fungi strains like Candida tropicalis, Candida glabrata and Candida krusei, may also cause it. The fungus called Candida albicans is normally found in the human body, especially on skin and the mucosal surfaces like mouth, intestines and vagina. This fungus is controlled by the beneficial bacteria in our body. However, when the conditions become favorable for the rapid growth of these fungi, it results in symptoms of thrush. Basically, thrush can be classified into two types - oral and vaginal. In some cases, thrush becomes severe and attacks other bodily systems. Such conditions can be life-threatening.

Oral Thrush Cure

As mentioned above, oral and vaginal thrush are commonly seen in humans. Oral thrush is characterized by raised lesions inside the mouth, especially on the tongue, roof of mouth and inside the cheeks. These lesions will have creamy white coating, that can be removed, while brushing, but, the lesions may bleed. These lesions can cause mouth ulcers and lead to bad breath too. If left untreated, the infection may spread to the esophagus, lungs and stomach. While, infants are more prone to oral thrush, immunocompromised adults and those with diabetes or thyroid problems are also susceptible to thrush.

The treatment for oral thrush is topical anti fungal medication, for a minimum time span of seven days. If the condition does not improve with such treatment, oral anti fungal medicines are prescribed. Most cases of oral thrush can be treated effectively with oral drugs. In some cases, such treatment may also fail and the condition reappears. In such cases, steroids are given to the patient. However, systemic anti fungal drugs and steroids may cause serious side effects in some people and so, such drugs have to be taken as per the instructions of your doctor. Maintain good oral hygiene and use diluted apple cider vinegar or tea tree oil for rinsing mouth. Consumption of yogurt and garlic is also said to be beneficial for oral thrush cure.

Cure for Vaginal Thrush

Vaginal thrush is the most common form of candidiasis, that causes itching, soreness and redness in the vagina, vulva and anus. Another common symptom of this condition is unusual vaginal discharge, that resembles cottage cheese. The affected woman may also experience pain while urination and sexual intercourse. As in the case of oral thrush, both topical and systemic anti fungal medicines are used for treating vaginal candidiasis. While mild cases can be cured with topical application of such drugs on the vulva and vagina, severe ones need systemic drugs, along with topical ones. Oral anti fungal medicines have to be taken as cure for thrush, under the strict supervision of a doctor, as they can cause side effects. It has to be noted that oral anti fungal drugs should not be used by pregnant and breastfeeding woman. As mentioned above, consumption of yogurt is said to be good for people affected with thrush. Avoiding consumption of sugar and over use of antibiotics are also said to be beneficial for preventing and controlling thrush. Cranberry juice is also said to be one of the natural thrush cures.

The above said is only a brief overview about some common remedies for thrush. In case of recurrent vaginal or oral thrush, it is better to opt for a longer treatment, as per the advice of your doctor.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.
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Last Updated: 10/13/2011
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