How to cure thrush in the mouth. How to treat oral thrush. Release form and purpose

From this article you will learn:

• what is oral candidiasis,
• what does thrush look like on the tongue in adults,
• effective tablets against thrush.

Thrush in the mouth occurs due to damage to the oral mucosa by fungi of the genus Candida. The development of thrush is most often associated with a decrease in the body's defenses, as well as with a deterioration in local immunity of the oral mucosa. In professional language, this disease has a term - oral candidiasis.

It is important to understand that thrush in the mouth in adults is not some banal fungal infection of the mucosa that occurs accidentally or as a result of taking antibiotics. The fact is that damage to the mucous membrane by fungi of the genus Candida is often a marker of serious (not yet diagnosed) diseases.

Thrush in the mouth: photo

According to various sources - from 50 to 90% of all people are carriers of Candida. But such carriage is not considered a disease, since under normal conditions these fungi do not show their pathogenic properties (i.e., the symptoms of oral candidiasis are completely absent in carriers). And only under certain conditions, a fungal infection begins to show pathogenic properties, affecting the mucous membrane.

Oral thrush: causes

There are many subspecies of fungi of the genus Candida, but in about 50% of cases, oral candidiasis is caused by Candida albicans (C.albicans). Less commonly, in descending order of frequency, oral thrush can be caused by C.tropicalis, C.glabrata, C.krusei, C.pseudotropicalis and others.

Most often, oral candidiasis occurs in 2 groups of patients. Firstly, in patients with insufficient oral hygiene, with untreated carious teeth. This is due to the fact that such patients in the mouth have a large number of pathogenic bacteria that weaken the defenses of the oral mucosa (due to which Candida fungi begin to invade the mucous membrane).

The second most common cause is a weakened immune system, and therefore the main risk group are patients with a weakened immune system due to various diseases (for example, due to HIV / AIDS, diabetes mellitus, malnutrition, as well as patients with active cancer, or after undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy).

Other reasons for the development of oral thrush:

• After taking antibiotics
  the oral cavity normally contains a lot of types of microorganisms that not only coexist, but also inhibit the growth of each other. Taking broad-spectrum antibiotics eliminates some types of bacteria in the oral cavity, thereby disturbing the balanced composition of the microflora. The disappearance or reduction of certain types of bacteria can lead to the growth of fungi of the genus Candida.

• While taking corticosteroids –
  in patients with bronchial asthma while taking inhaled steroids, oral candidiasis can occur in about 5-10% of adults and 1% of children. In cases where inhaled steroids are the cause, candidal lesions usually have the appearance of erythema. Candidiasis appears precisely in those areas where the steroid has come into contact with the mucous membrane (usually the back of the tongue, sometimes in the sky).

• Diet -
  malnutrition can lead to a deficiency in the body of iron, vitamin B12, folic acid, which is a predisposing factor for oral candidiasis. There is also evidence that a high carbohydrate diet also predisposes to oral candidiasis. Therefore, it is very important for such patients to exclude the use of sweets, including sugar-containing drinks. Studies show that the growth of Candida and its adhesion to the mucosa is enhanced in the presence of sugars (glucose, galactose, sucrose).

• Smoking and other factors –
  other factors may include smoking, endocrine disorders (such as diabetes mellitus), the presence of certain diseases of the oral mucosa, such as lichen planus and leukoplakia. Often, oral candidiasis occurs in patients with a folded tongue or after a tongue piercing.

• In patients with removable dentures –
  most often in patients with removable dentures, candidiasis occurs due to insufficient hygiene of the prosthesis. In this case, the prosthesis is covered with a biofilm containing a large number of fungi of the genus Candida. For this reason, it is a very important part of the treatment of oral candidiasis in people with removable dentures.

  A predisposing factor may be if the patient does not remove their prosthesis while sleeping. In this case, the mucous membrane is constantly deprived of oxygen and saliva washing, which creates prerequisites for the development of anaerobes and fungi. Another reason may be that the prosthesis does not fit well with the tissues of the prosthetic bed and therefore it injures the mucous membrane. Such microtraumas of the mucosa also contribute to the onset of the development of oral candidiasis.

• Chronic dry mouth –
  a decrease in the amount of saliva and the content of various enzymes and antibodies in it is an important predisposing factor in the development of oral candidiasis. Constant dryness in the mouth is called by dentists a term. Her treatment is big problem in dentistry.

• Oral candidiasis in an infant –
  at a very young age the immune system not yet fully developed. Acute pseudomembranous candidiasis occurs in about 5% of newborns. Candida species are acquired from the mother's vaginal canal during childbirth. At an early age, the immune system is not yet fully developed and therefore infants do not have an individual immune response to Candida fungi (infant antibodies to fungi are usually supplied with mother's breast milk).

Thrush in the mouth: symptoms

When thrush occurs in the mouth in adults, the symptoms can vary greatly from patient to patient. The fact is that oral thrush (oral candidiasis) is of four main types, each of which has characteristic special symptoms. The following 4 main forms of this disease are distinguished:

• acute pseudomembranous candidiasis,
• acute atrophic candidiasis,
• chronic atrophic candidiasis,
• chronic hyperplastic candidiasis.

Below we will analyze the features of each form, but, despite the differences in symptoms, their treatment will be carried out almost the same.

This form of oral thrush is usually asymptomatic. Only discomfort may be present due to the presence of white films or plaques that rise above the oral mucosa (Fig. 4-6). With a mild course, the plaques are single, easily removed by scraping, and in this case, a bright red mucous membrane is found under them.

In severe cases, plaques, increasing in size, merge with each other, which leads to the defeat of almost the entire mucous membrane. When the plaques thicken, they become very difficult to scrape off. This type of candidiasis often develops in infants, in patients after taking antibiotics, corticosteroids or immunosuppressants, in patients with impaired immune status (due to leukemia, HIV).

Pseudomembranous candidiasis (Fig. 7-9) -

2. Acute and chronic atrophic candidiasis -

In acute atrophic candidiasis, the patient may feel as if the mouth has been scalded with hot liquid. At the same time, white plaque and plaques are absent here, and the mucous membrane has a bright red color. Another possible symptom is a metallic, acidic, salty, or bitter taste in the mouth, as well as dry mouth. Most often, acute atrophic candidiasis develops after taking antibiotics or corticosteroids.

In chronic atrophic candidiasis, there is also reddening of the mucous membrane, a burning sensation. Most often, this form of oral thrush occurs in patients with removable dentures, and therefore it is sometimes also called.

What does atrophic candidiasis look like (Fig. 7-9) -

3. Chronic hyperplastic candidiasis -

It occurs mainly only in adults and is quite rare (in relation to other forms of candidiasis, the frequency of its occurrence is no more than 5%). Most often occurs on the mucous membrane of the cheeks, near the corners of the mouth, on the back of the tongue, and also on the soft palate. It is characterized by the appearance of white plaques that grow and merge over time. In the expressed stage, the surface of the plaques becomes rough, knotty. Plaques may become yellowish over time.

Important : most types of oral candidiasis are painless and present only as lesions on the oral mucosa, sometimes with a burning sensation. This is why candidiasis can sometimes be misdiagnosed as "burning syndrome".

In order to make a correct diagnosis, it is very important to cytological examination plaque taken from the oral mucosa. This is all the more important because very often an abundant accumulation of non-fungal microflora (especially on the tongue) - may resemble a fungal infection of the mucous membrane.

Drugs against thrush -

Before treating thrush in the mouth in adults, it is necessary to conduct a cytological examination. It will not only confirm the diagnosis of oral candidiasis, but also determine the sensitivity of the fungi isolated from a particular patient to the main antifungal drugs. It is the systemic antifungal drugs will be the basis of oral candidiasis therapy.

It should be noted that every year the level of resistance of fungi of the genus Candida to the main antifungal drugs increases. For example, today there is almost complete resistance of Candida to Fluconazole, which has long been considered the "gold standard" in the treatment of candidiasis. From this it becomes clear that fluconazole-based anti-thrush drugs (such as Diflucan or Flucostat) will not be particularly effective.

Table. Antifungal drug resistance rates(the study was published in 2015; conducted at the Samara State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, Department of Therapeutic Dentistry, IPO).

Conclusions : basic therapy for oral candidiasis can be carried out with systemic antifungal drugs, to which Candida species show minimal resistance. It is such drugs against thrush as Nystatin or Amphotericin (the latter is prescribed only for systemic candidiasis) that have the lowest resistance rates.

• Scheme of taking Nystatin for oral candidiasis -
  for adults apply tab. Nystatin 500 thousand units. Every 6 hours you need to dissolve 1 table. (after eating and oral hygiene) - within 7-14 days. For children, a single dosage will be 125 thousand units or 250 thousand units, depending on age, and the regimen will be similar.

• As an alternative to nystatin, the antifungal drug Miconazole (in the form of mucoadhesive tablets) can be used. Such a tablet is fixed on the buccal mucosa, after which its slow dissolution begins within 8-13 hours. Such a slow prolonged release of the active substance from the tablet can significantly increase the effectiveness of therapy.

It should be noted that the treatment of thrush on the tongue in adults is carried out exactly according to the same schemes as for localization in other parts of the oral mucosa.

Additional local therapy –

As an additional local therapy, solutions for rinsing the mouth, antifungal drugs in the form of gels (for application to the affected areas of the oral mucosa) can be used -

Important points in the treatment of oral candidiasis -

It is very important to carry out treatment with simultaneous sanitation of the oral cavity, i.e. it is necessary to cure all carious teeth, foci chronic inflammation in the oral cavity. Otherwise, there is a high probability that oral thrush will reappear very quickly. Patients with removable dentures - it is important to teach them how to regularly disinfect them, and also if the denture is old - to replace it. It will be useless to treat oral candidiasis in patients whose dentures continue to be a source of infection.

For smokers, it is very important to reduce the frequency of nicotine consumption in this case, but it is better to abandon it. If candidiasis occurs during the use of inhaled steroids (in asthmatics), you need to tell the patient about the need to rinse the mouth with water after spraying the steroid. At the time of treatment, it is also very important to reduce the amount of carbohydrates consumed, and it is desirable to completely abandon sweet and sugar-containing drinks.

Great help in the treatment and prevention of candidiasis and stomatitis can be provided by toothpastes containing lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase, lysozyme, glucose oxidase. Such pastes increase the local immunity of the oral cavity, and reduce the risk of developing stomatitis and candidiasis. For example, such pastes are among the line.

Why is it important to seek medical treatment?

As we said above, it is very important to conduct a cytological examination and determine the sensitivity of a fungal infection to various antifungal drugs. Otherwise, you can spend a lot of money on expensive drugs, which then will not be effective for you.

The cost of a cytological examination(for 2019) –

• Sampling of material for fungi of the genus Candida with the determination of sensitivity to 6 antifungal drugs by the disk-diffusion method (using disks manufactured by NITsF, Russia) - the cost is 300 rubles.

• Sampling of material with the selection of an effective antifungal drug on the VITEK analyzer, France - the cost is 800 rubles (this method is much more accurate and shows the true picture of microflora resistance to various drugs).

Seeing a doctor is also important because it will allow you not to miss any serious disease that has not yet been diagnosed, one of the manifestations of which may be thrush of the oral mucosa. Well, the third reason is that there are a large number of diseases of the oral mucosa (for example,) that can be mistaken for oral candidiasis. Improper self-treatment in this case will only lead to the progression of the disease.

Prevention of re-development of oral candidiasis -

Prophylactic use of antifungals is mandatory in people with HIV infection, during radiation therapy, during immunosuppressive therapy, or during long-term antibiotic therapy.

Important : remember that if oral candidiasis is prone to regular relapses, then it is best to undergo a complete examination of the body. Candidiasis can only be a symptom (marker) of an underlying disease that you may not even be aware of. For example, candidiasis can sometimes be the result of a serious yet undiagnosed pathology, such as HIV / AIDS, a sign of oncology or blood disorders. We hope that our article on the topic: Thrush in the mouth in adults, symptoms, treatment - turned out to be useful to you!

Candidiasis is always treated: untreated thrush is fraught with infections in the internal organs. Thrush is a common disease of the oral cavity. Its appearance is due to the action of fungi of the genus Candida. This disease occurs in both adults and children. The main symptom of thrush is the appearance white plaque on the oral mucosa. In addition, dryness and a slight burning sensation sometimes appear in the mouth. To distinguish candidiasis from another disease will help the photo to the article.

Thrush can appear not only in the mouth, but also on the skin, in the stomach and intestines, as well as on the genitals. Signs of the disease can be detected after excessive use of antibiotics in men and women, as well as children. The disease often appears during pregnancy. If immunity is not reduced, then candidiasis, as a rule, does not make itself felt.

How to treat oral candidiasis?

When symptoms of thrush appear in an adult, it is necessary to use not only pharmaceutical drugs, but also rinses with the help of folk decoctions. Measures aimed at correcting nutrition and taking vitamins will be useful. During the treatment of candidiasis, oral hygiene should be observed.

Note that before starting drug treatment disease, you need to visit your doctor, who will determine the specific form of candidiasis and prescribe the appropriate therapy. Prescriptions include antifungal drugs - Fluconazole, Nistatit, etc.

Thrush in acute form

The acute form of thrush, today, manifests itself most often, including in infants. It affects such parts of the oral cavity as the tongue, palate, gums and cheeks. Often, thrush also captures the lips. This form of the disease is easily recognized by the following symptoms:

At the initial stage of the disease, white plaque is easily removed from the affected surface. If candidiasis has begun to progress, then the plaque is already difficult to remove, and the mucosa under it looks painful and swollen, a pronounced bad smell. The external signs of the disease described above are clearly visible in the photo.

Acute thrush can sometimes be confused with an allergy to dentures. If this is precisely an allergic reaction, then it is necessary to visit and control a doctor, to pass the appropriate tests after removing the prostheses. Thrush in this form does not harm the general health of the patient, provided that it is cured in time.

Chronic candidiasis in the mouth

In addition to acute, there is also a chronic form of thrush. It is easy to distinguish - the plaque is no longer white, but yellowish in color, its layer is thick, attempts to remove it are almost never successful. However, if it was still possible to scrape off the plaque, a bleeding wound opens in this place.

Unlike acute, with a chronic form of candidiasis, plaque appears on the palate and tongue. Chronic atrophic candidiasis occurs in elderly people who constantly wear dentures. In addition to the tongue and palate, the corners of the mouth are affected, due to which this form is simply distinguished from the other.

Treatment of candidiasis at home

In combination with drugs in the treatment of thrush, use different kind folk recipes. Before putting them into practice, be sure to get advice and instructions from your doctor, especially if the disease appeared during pregnancy. Many prescriptions are allowed to be used exclusively by adults.

• In the treatment of candidiasis, herbs such as chamomile, calendula, sage are used. Decoctions are prepared from them, for which the dry collection is poured with boiling water and kept on low heat for 10-15 minutes. After the resulting broth has cooled, it is filtered and rinsed with it in the mouth 3 times a day.
• Good efficiency in fungal disease shows sea buckthorn oil. It is used in its pure form to lubricate the affected oral mucosa - several times a day after brushing your teeth.
  To get rid of candidiasis in the oral cavity as quickly as possible, apply next recipe: mix a little onion, garlic and wormwood herb. This mixture, despite its smell, gently lubricate the mouth 4-5 times a day. People who have recovered from thrush in this way assure that after a week of intensive use of the mixture, there will be no trace of the problem.
• A useful and effective remedy for a fungal disease is carrot juice, which is used to rinse. Due to the fact that it contains many vitamins and essential oils, this juice has a beneficial effect on the affected mucous membrane, accelerating the healing process.
• Another folk way, helping to recover from an unpleasant thrush - bee honey. It is carefully absorbed after the oral cavity is cleared of curd plaque.

diet for candidiasis

When using drugs and folk remedies at home in the treatment of candidiasis, it is extremely important to follow a correct diet. Sweets, which are loved by both women and men, are completely excluded from the diet. Otherwise, the Candida fungus will return again and again. In order to partially get rid of such unpleasant sensations as pain and burning in the oral cavity, it is desirable to refuse salty and peppery foods. In the selection of food during the treatment of the disease, you should be very careful, since with the help of a diet you can get rid of thrush much faster.

How to treat thrush in adults?

Candidiasis is always treated - untreated thrush is fraught with infections in the internal organs. After suspicions of candidiasis have appeared, it is urgent to consult a doctor for advice and prescribing therapy. The specialist will prescribe a diet, which, as mentioned above, will help defeat the disease much faster and drug therapy.

Antifungal antibiotic

In the treatment of common candidiasis, antifungal antibiotics are used, and the most effective of them is Nystatin. This drug is of natural origin and is available in the form of a cream for topical use, as well as in tablet form for oral administration. For the treatment of thrush on the genitals in women, Nystatin suppositories are used.

Before using antibiotics for candidiasis in one form or another, you should consult your doctor. He will prescribe the dosage of Nystatin and determine the duration of the course of treatment. This is especially true in cases where it is necessary to cure the fungus during pregnancy.

Mucosal treatment with imidazoles

For local treatment of candidiasis, imidazoles are often used, represented by a list of drugs. One of them is Clotrimazole - in the form of a gel, cream, tablets, solution and suppositories. For greater effectiveness of the drug in case of candidiasis of the oral cavity, advance mouth rinsing is performed. This procedure will partially remove plaque, due to which Clotrimazole will penetrate much deeper into the tissues. The gel is applied to the oral mucosa with a clean finger or cotton swab 1-2 times a day for no more than 7 days.

Antifungal drugs

In the treatment of thrush, and especially its advanced stages, effective antifungal drugs are used that help to quickly get rid of a fungal disease in the mouth, suppressing its development.

For the treatment of candidiasis, doctors prescribe the following drugs for internal use:

As for local treatment, the following means are used for these purposes:

• Decamine sweets, which are held on the cheek for a long time;
• lozenges Lizobakt;
• Furacilin solution, which is used to rinse the mouth 6-7 times a day;
• baking soda solution for rinsing the mouth;
• drops Candide;
• Clotrimazole, used in the form of a gel.

In some cases, infusion solutions are used: Diflazon, Fluconazole, etc. At the first symptoms of thrush in the mouth, it is necessary to consult a doctor, namely, a dentist or periodontist. If the disease also appeared on the surface of the throat or captured other parts, an infectious disease specialist should be consulted.

Vitamins and minerals for candidiasis

Candidiasis of the oral cavity can be triggered by a lack of vitamins - beriberi. That is why, in combination with other means for the treatment of thrush, the corresponding vitamins are also taken. Often, along with them, the doctor may prescribe other drugs that can increase immunity. These funds include:

• calcium in tablet form;
• vitamins belonging to groups B, C and PP.

Thrush (candidiasis) is an infectious disease that affects the mucous membranes of the body. If the fungal microflora progresses in the oral cavity, then we are talking about oral candidiasis. This is accompanied by the development of discomfort and loss of taste. With untimely treatment, serious complications occur. What effective remedies for oral candidiasis exist? How to approach the treatment of fungal infections of the oral mucosa?

Thrush develops due to a decrease in protective functions organism. can independently fight fungus or bacteria, but only when it is in a normal state. With a decrease in the resistance of the protective barrier, the progression of pathogenic microflora in the body, including the fungus, occurs.

Most often, oral candidiasis is diagnosed in women during pregnancy. In men, this disease is very rare. Predisposing factors in this case are smoking, because tobacco smoke contributes to the violation of the natural microflora of the oral cavity.

Thrush is an infectious disease that can be transmitted from one person to another: through kissing, sexual contact, and even through household contact, using other people's hygiene products.

The risk group includes:

1. Persons using removable dentures.
2. Taking corticosteroids by inhalation.
3. Undergoing antibiotic or hormonal therapy.
4. People who take drugs and abuse alcohol.
5. HIV infected.

More than others, the development of candidiasis in an adult contributes to damage to the mucous membrane.

Classification or how to be treated correctly

How to treat thrush in the mouth? It all depends on what stage the disease is in. It is possible to determine the severity of the fungal infection of the mucous membrane by the symptoms of the disease. To confirm the diagnosis, it is necessary to pass a series laboratory research. After receiving the results of the diagnosis, the doctor will make a conclusion and prescribe an effective drug therapy.

Use funds traditional medicine acceptable in the initial stages of the progression of candidiasis or as a supportive method for a speedy recovery when using medications. Self-medication can cause the progression of a fungal disease, which causes serious complications.

Types of oral candidiasis in adults:

• Pseudomembranous (acute). It is characterized by the appearance of a white cheesy coating on the lips, palate, tongue and cheeks. Under a thick, dense coating is a reddened smooth mucous membrane. There are cracks in the corners of the lips. There is an increase in the submandibular lymph nodes. The disease resembles diseases such as stomatitis, diphtheria and tonsillitis.
• Atrophic (acute). It develops mainly when wearing dentures. At the same time, the mucous membrane dries out, burning and pain appear. The mucosa becomes red and shiny. The papillae on the tongue will atrophy. Curd plaque appears in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe folds. It is removed with great difficulty.
• Hyperplastic (chronic). It is manifested by pain that occurs when eating spicy and acidic foods. The mucous membrane dries up and becomes covered with gray plaques. When they are removed, ulcers and a papular rash form on the palate, cheeks or tongue. There are no signs of general intoxication.
• Atrophic (chronic). It is characterized by the appearance of cracks in the corners of the lips. Dryness of the mucous membrane provokes pain during eating. The entire oral cavity is hyperemic. In the folds in the region of the upper palate, a cheesy plaque appears, which is removed easily and leaves no traces behind.

The acute stage of thrush is easy to cure. With timely drug therapy, treatment takes no more than 7-10 days. In the case of the chronic form of the disease, things are different. Treatment should be complex and long. In some cases, it takes 1-3 months.

When should you start treatment?

If you have a thrush in your mouth, then you should not delay a visit to the doctor. Only by taking timely measures can you cure a fungal disease quickly and eliminate the likelihood of relapse.

If you experience the following symptoms, you should immediately go to your doctor:

1. Burning and itching in the mouth.
2. Violation of the swallowing functions.
3. Violation of taste perception.
4. The appearance of a continuous or dotted white coating.
5. The development of signs of intoxication of the body: weakness, fever, headaches.

It is important to correctly determine what kind of disease we are talking about. In order to differentiate thrush from stomatitis or tonsillitis, attention should be paid to the fact that the cheesy plaque in candidiasis decreases when the oral cavity is treated with soda. At the same time, there are foci of inflammation and ulcers on the mucous membrane.

What measures should be taken

To prescribe effective remedies for oral candidiasis, you need to contact a dentist, mycologist or infectious disease specialist. For primary care, you can visit a therapist. An additional examination by an allergist or endocrinologist may also be required.

The specialist conducts and makes an accurate diagnosis. After determining the type of pathogen and the nature of the course of the fungal infection of the oral mucosa, drug therapy is prescribed.

Antifungal drugs for resorption

Thrush in the mouth in an adult in the initial stages of progression can be stopped with the help of special antimycotic lozenges. Among the most effective drugs are Diflucan, Lysozyme and Clotrimazole.

local processing

Solutions to relieve symptoms and stop progression infectious disease are very popular. Among the most effective against oral candidiasis, Amphotericin and Decamine can be distinguished. The oral cavity can be lubricated with brilliant green or lugol, which also allows you to remove the symptoms of candidiasis.

Antifungal irrigation

Antimycotic aerosols containing hexoral or chlorhexidine have high efficiency. Swallowing such drugs is unacceptable, so use with caution.

You can treat the mucous membrane with solutions such as baking soda and storm. These remedies eliminate the acidic environment, replacing the alkaline one, which helps to relieve the symptoms of the disease and prevents its progression. For these purposes, you can use potassium permanganate. The number of procedures per day should be at least five. The course of therapy depends on the degree of progression of the disease.

An unconventional approach to treatment

How to rinse your mouth with candidiasis at home? Medications have a number of contraindications and can cause the development of adverse reactions. In some cases, for example, during pregnancy, their use is highly undesirable. How to be in such a situation? If there is no predisposition to the development of allergies, then you can use the means folk therapy, the effectiveness of which has been tested by time.

Universal rinse

Thrush in the mouth can be cured very quickly. For this you need to use essential oils. Among the most effective are:

• and eucalyptus.
• Fir and lavender.
• Geranium and cedar.

To carry out the procedure, it is enough to add 5-7 drops to 200 ml of water. essential oil. 3-5 rinses should be carried out per day. After the symptoms of the disease disappear, you should not stop treatment. Cleansing procedures should be carried out for another 3-5 days.

natural juices

In the treatment of oral candidiasis, simple vegetables can be used. This method is the most accessible and inexpensive. The composition of vegetables includes substances that have a pronounced antiseptic and antifungal effect. Among the most effective vegetables and berries against fungal microflora, the following should be highlighted:

• Garlic and onion.
• Carrots, viburnum and cranberries.

In order to treat oral thrush, you need to prepare juice from the above products. They treat the affected areas 3-5 times a day. The course of treatment depends on the degree of damage. Even if the symptoms of the disease disappeared 2-3 days after the start of treatment, you should not stop therapy. The course of using vegetable and berry juice is at least 7 days.

medicinal plants

preferred way folk treatment thrush is use medicinal plants. They comprehensively fight the problem of fungal infection of the mucous membranes. On their basis, infusions and decoctions are prepared, which can be washed or irrigated with mucous membranes. Fight candidiasis with medicinal herbs by rinsing.

To prepare a medicinal infusion and decoction, it is recommended to take 1 tbsp for 200 ml of boiling water. l. dry crushed raw materials. The resulting solution should be infused for 1-2 hours or simmer in a water bath for 30 minutes. It is recommended to rinse your mouth 5 times a day for 7-10 days.

Among the most effective medicinal herbs can be distinguished:

• St. John's wort and calendula.
• Oak bark and wild rosemary.

Applications

The treatment procedure should be carried out only after cleansing the mucous membrane from curdled plaque. This increases the effectiveness of the means used, speeding up the healing process.

Among the generally accepted medicinal products can be distinguished:

• Honey. With its help, the oral cavity is treated and kept on the mucous membrane until completely dissolved.
• Natural oils (rosehip, sea buckthorn). A napkin soaked in oil for 5-10 minutes is applied to the areas of the mucous membrane affected by the fungus, depending on the degree of progression of the disease.

The duration of non-traditional therapy with the help of applications is 1.5-2 weeks. After the symptoms of the disease subside, treatment should be continued. This approach eliminates the possibility of recurrence.

Treatment of advanced thrush

If the disease is in a chronic stage, then local medicinal or folk remedies will not work. Without fail, the doctor prescribes medications for systemic action.

Among the most popular and effective drugs against oral candidiasis are:

1. Polyenes ("Natamycin", "Levorin" and "Nystatin").
2. Echinocandins ("Caspofugin").
3. Allylamines ("Lamisil" and "Terbinafine").
4. Triazoles ("Intraconazole" and "Fluconazole").

The effectiveness of these drugs is aimed at the destruction of fungal microflora throughout the body. Medicines are taken orally, after which the active substances penetrate into the bloodstream and suppress the activity of the causative agent of thrush. Such treatment gives a faster and more lasting result.

Please note that all of the above drugs have a number of contraindications and can cause serious complications. That is why a preliminary consultation with a doctor is required.

In order to select the most effective remedy For the treatment of thrush of the oral cavity, it is necessary to undergo a diagnosis. Only an experienced doctor, based on the results obtained, can prescribe the most effective and safe therapy.

Candida fungus, which causes damage to the mucous membrane of the genital organs in men and women, can also actively multiply in the mouth, then candidiasis or oral thrush is formed in adults.

The disease is not rare and brings a lot of suffering to patients, dramatically reducing the quality of life and disrupting the process of eating.

There are a large number of different stomatitis, that is, inflammation of the oral mucosa, of a bacterial, viral and fungal nature. Sometimes mixed. The signs of these diseases are very similar, but the correct treatment tactics and recovery depend on the exact definition of the nature of the disease. In this article, we want to tell you exactly what thrush is in the mouth in adults, the symptoms and treatment of this fungal infection of the oral cavity.

In general, Candida albicans is present in small quantities on almost all mucous membranes, including in the oral cavity. But being in a balanced ratio with other representatives of the microflora, it does not cause any diseases. That is, just like that, without visible reasons thrush in the mouth in adults will not occur.

Causes of oral thrush

1. Entry into the oral cavity of a large number of candida from the outside during oral sexual contact with a partner who has a fungal infection of the genital organs, with a kiss, less often from infected dishes and fruits. Especially rapidly and resistant to treatment are candidiasis caused not by Candida albikans, but by "imported" candida, such as Candida krusei, glabrata, tropicalis, parapsilosis.
2. Active reproduction of the fungus in the oral cavity due to the development of dysbacteriosis. This happens mainly during long-term antibiotic therapy, when normal saprophytic bacteria, which inhibited the reproduction of Candid, die. The balance of microflora is disturbed, the spread of fungi is not restrained by anything, and their uncontrollable growth begins with the development of oral thrush in adults.
3. Treatment with immunosuppressive drugs and corticosteroids for various autoimmune, chronic and oncological diseases. These drugs reduce local sustainability mucous membrane. Immune cells cannot control the amount of fungi, candidiasis develops.
4. Diabetes is also a risk factor and cause of thrush in the mouth in adults. A large amount of glucose in saliva and on the mucous membrane creates favorable conditions for the reproduction of Candida albicans.
5. The use of mouth rinses with solutions containing antibiotics, or the treatment of gingivitis with dental pastes and gels with antibacterial drugs.

Everyone can face a candidal lesion, the complications are quite serious, so it is important to know what causes and how thrush in the mouth occurs in adults, the symptoms and treatment of this disease.

The incubation period is about 1-3 days if the fungus has come from outside, that is, through orogenital contact, deep kissing or from objects. If the disease is caused by its own fungus, thrush develops gradually, starting with minor symptoms, subsequently capturing the entire mucous membrane of the oropharynx and lips. The danger of the disease lies not only in ulcerative lesions of the oral mucosa, but in the spread of the infectious process to the larynx, trachea, bronchi, esophagus and other organs. gastrointestinal tract. In severe cases, the disease can be fatal. This does not happen often, mainly with serious immunodeficiencies.

Much more often there is the formation of chronic candidiasis of the oropharynx, which can disturb the patient throughout his life.

Symptoms of oral thrush in adults

Signs of candidiasis and complaints presented by patients are very diverse. The severity of the process can vary from a slight reddening of the lips and the so-called "jam" in the corners of the mouth to a total lesion of the mucous membrane of the oropharynx, larynx, tongue, when the patient cannot eat, talk, and he is worried about severe, constant pain in the mouth.

So, let's move on to a description of the typical symptoms of oral thrush, depending on the level of spread of the infectious process.

• damage to the lips and corners of the mouth: there is redness of the red border of the lips, swelling, the appearance of cracks and white plaque in the corners of the mouth. Peeling, scales and erosion can be observed on the lips themselves. A person is concerned about itching of the skin of the lips, burning, with sores and cracks, pain, the inability to open the mouth wide.
• the spread of the fungus on the mucous membrane of the cheeks, gums, tongue, soft palate: visually, you can determine the bright hyperemia (redness) of these areas, swelling, the appearance of white plaques, which at the beginning of the disease are easily removed with a spatula, exposing a bright erosive surface. With a prolonged course, plaques attach to the mucous membrane more tightly and their removal can provoke bleeding. Often there are erosions, sores, covered with purulent films. The tongue acquires a "geographical" appearance due to spots of different colors. If the thrush in the mouth becomes chronic, then the color of the mucosa will be stagnant red, with a bluish tinge, shells are possible, the formation is long non-healing cracks. The patient is concerned about pain, burning in the mouth, difficulty in eating and hot drinks, bad breath, increased salivation. With a strong swelling of the tongue, speech becomes difficult.
• further fungal infection affects the pharynx and tonsils. In this case, the symptoms of thrush in the mouth are accompanied by difficulty in swallowing, sore throat, body temperature may rise, cervical lymph nodes may increase. The disease mimics a sore throat, bacterial tonsillitis or pharyngitis. On the surface of edematous and red tonsils, the back wall of the pharynx, the dermatovenereologist sees white films, sometimes with a grayish tint, which are easily removed with an instrument in the acute phase.

Examination of patients with oral candidiasis

Laboratory diagnosis of oral thrush is not difficult, but for some reason, many doctors do not perform it in full.

First of all, films, plaque and scrapings from erosions and ulcers are taken for analysis.

The resulting material is examined microscopically, detecting elements of yeast fungi in it, as well as by PCR and inoculation.

PRP for Candida helps to determine the type of fungus, its amount in a fairly short time - in 1 day. With erosion, it is also recommended to take an analysis for treponema pallidum, the causative agent of syphilis, and herpes viruses that cause similar symptoms.

Sowing will help to find out which antimycotics candida is sensitive to and which concomitant microflora is involved in the inflammatory process. It is done within 5-7 days. Although its variety has now appeared - spectral analysis, which allows you to get a result in 3 days, but its cost is much higher.

Blood tests are also needed to evaluate a patient with oral thrush. They will help identify diabetes, syphilis, HIV and immune problems.

Also, this diagnosis is needed to determine the condition of the liver and kidneys, which will have to deal with the processing of antifungal drugs during the treatment of thrush. If the function of these organs is impaired, the selection of drugs for drug therapy is complicated, because they have a pronounced effect on the liver and kidneys. This diagnosis is no less important than scrapings from rashes.

If signs of thrush in adults arose after sexual contact, then from the oropharynx, from erosions, sores, from the tongue, the venereologist takes tests for STIs - sexually transmitted infections. PCR diagnostics is also used mainly. Determine the presence of chlamydia, gonococcus, mycoplasmas, gardnerella, HPV, which can also affect the oral mucosa.

With an increase in the level of glucose in the blood, an endocrinologist consultation is prescribed. Because without the normalization of high levels of “sugar”, it is simply impossible to cure thrush in the mouth, no matter what methods and preparations the doctor used.

The patient may be referred to an immunologist if serious deviations in the immune status are detected. Sometimes, without the correction of immunity, it is also not possible to cope with a candidal lesion.

Only having all these data, the doctor will prescribe the correct treatment. Without a complete diagnosis, there are risks of transition to a chronic form of the disease, the success of which is already more doubtful than a fresh infection.

Treatment of thrush in the mouth in adults

It is developed on the basis of a previous examination, taking into account the detected type of Candida fungus, its quantity, concomitant diseases, microflora and immunity, and the severity of the inflammatory process.

This article describes the general treatment options for oral candidiasis.

1. Of course, systemic antifungal drugs are prescribed, preferably taking into account the sensitivity of the candida to drugs, or at least focusing on its type. Most drugs are well tolerated by patients. Tablets, capsules, intravenous infusions of antimycotics-imidazoles can be prescribed. The course of treatment can range from 7 to 21 days, depending on the stage and severity of the disease. In severe cases, amphotericin B is prescribed, but this is already with systemic candidiasis, damage to internal organs, and is carried out only in a hospital. Intravenous drip improves the bioavailability of drugs, reduces the effect on the liver, and allows you to achieve a higher working concentration in the affected tissue. On an outpatient basis, fluconazole is mainly dripped, which, unlike its tablet form, works well in moderate cases of oral thrush in adults.
   In the clinic, doctors determine the total duration of the course not only according to the initial data of the examination and examination, but also according to the results of intermediate tests. That is, during treatment, scraping from the oral mucosa can be performed once every 7-10 days to determine the number of candida and evaluate the effectiveness of therapy.
2. Topical treatment is the most difficult part of the course and is no less important than general antifungal treatment. It is local therapy that helps reduce pain, swelling, and restores the ability to eat. A number of factors are taken into account:
   
   
   1. clinical manifestations on mucous membranes. That is what caused the fungus. Are there ulcers, erosions, cracks, purulent discharge, or only redness and plaque.
   2. severity of pain syndrome
   3. difficulty in processing the mucous membrane of the oral cavity and pharynx due to frequent flushing of the drug with saliva, water and food
   4. the presence of a concomitant bacterial or viral infection
   The choice of drugs, the sequence of their use, combinations of active ingredients is practically a creative process that is not clearly described in any manual on dermatovenereology and is based on the experience of a doctor.
   Solutions, pastes, gels are used, containing, if necessary, anesthetics, antiseptics, antifungals, antibiotics, wound healing - regenerating, immunomodulating medicines, sodium chloride solutions saturated with ozone. Ozone destroys the fungus on its own, enhancing the effect of antimycotics and also accelerates the healing of mucosal defects.
   Solutions penetrate well into all parts of the oral cavity, but are quickly washed off with saliva. Pastes are well fixed, but are applied only to the most affected areas. Gels provide good penetration of active agents into the mucosa, but also act for a short time.
   Sometimes you have to prescribe on the same day both solutions and pastes in a certain sequence. Here it is very important that the patient strictly follows the recommendations of the doctor. Then success is guaranteed.
   In some cases, oral thrush in adults is treated jointly by a dermatovenereologist and a dentist, especially if there is severe damage to the gums, periodontium and teeth.
3. Immunomodulating or immunostimulating therapy. In addition to local immunomodulators, systemic therapy is used in the form of the introduction of polyoxidonium, thymalin, cycloferon, pyrogenal and others. immune preparations depending on the results of a clinical blood test and immunogram, the presence of viral infections.
   General ozone therapy has proven itself very well, which has practically no contraindications and perfectly restores immunity indicators.
   Starting to use intravenous drip of polyoxidonium and general ozone therapy, we noticed a faster and more active closure of ulcerative defects on the tongue and buccal mucosa.
4. Antiallergic or desensitizing therapy. The fact is that the fungus, like any other infectious agent in large quantities, causes an allergic reaction in the tissues, which is enhanced by the accumulation of its metabolic products. Drugs are used that reduce the severity of this reaction, promote the removal of allergens, antigens and metabolic products.
5. Physiotherapy - low-intensity laser, ultraviolet irradiation of the affected areas of the skin and mucous membrane helps to destroy the fungus and accelerate the healing of erosions and ulcers. The clinic has special nozzles for the treatment of the oral cavity. The duration of the procedure is from 1 to 10 minutes. The number is also determined by the doctor - from 5 to 10 sessions.

With timely treatment of the patient, fresh acute thrush of the mouth in adults is treated quite well and quickly, and most importantly, without consequences.

Unfortunately, patients with an advanced chronic form of candidiasis turn to the clinic, when the fungus has firmly grown into the mucous membrane and caused persistent inflammation, supported not only by infection, but also by allergic factors. Many people try to drink fluconazole on their own, rinse with miramistin, a decoction of chamomile without effect. But the difficulty is that such methods do not always help. And in the end - a neglected form of the disease and the spread of the fungus to the pharynx, larynx and esophagus.

Some of the patients have even passed the necessary examination, but the necessary, specific treatment was not prescribed.

Having gone through all the possible treatment regimens taken from the Internet, from familiar doctors of other specialties, or simply from acquaintances and neighbors, a person finally turns to a dermatovenereologist with the question: how to treat oral thrush in adults?

And only now the diagnostic data are analyzed, an adequate course is prescribed, taking into account all the symptoms, factors and the condition of the oral mucosa, and culminating in the patient's recovery.

Effective remedies for oral candidiasis help get rid of not only the symptoms of the disease, but also the microorganisms that cause this fungal disease. Only a doctor can choose the appropriate drugs. Pre-diagnosis is carried out. After that, systemic and local treatment is carried out.

Systemic therapy

Before starting therapy against candidiasis, it is necessary for the attending physician to undergo a diagnosis in order not only to confirm the presence of the disease, but also to determine the underlying causes. Only then will the doctor be able to select the appropriate medications. Diagnosis includes determining the main symptoms, studying the condition of the oral mucosa. Another doctor must do a scraping from the mouth, take blood for research and determine the level of sugar concentration in the blood. All the results obtained in the course of such studies influence the choice of treatment regimen.

To eliminate thrush in the mouth, it is necessary to begin treatment of diseases with a chronic course. For example, this applies to various diseases of the digestive tract, diabetes, leukemia, etc.

Treatment of oral candidiasis is carried out by a periodontist or dentist. If the lesion has also spread to other mucous membranes, then the infectious disease specialist or mycologist is involved in this. Allocate local and systemic therapy.

General therapy boils down to the fact that you need to take those pills that have a systemic effect on the patient's body. Such drugs not only destroy the fungal microorganisms that caused the disease on the oral mucosa, but also help get rid of mycotic lesions of other organs. In addition, such funds eliminate the carriage of fungi. Antifungal tablets are conventionally divided into 2 groups: imidazoles and polyene-type antibiotics.

As for the latter group, Levorin and Nystatin are examples. They are supposed to be consumed 4-5 times a day after a meal. Therapy lasts 1.5–2 weeks. It is recommended to dissolve such medicines. Then the effect will be more pronounced, and the duration of action on the mucous membranes of the mouth will be extended. Improvements in the patient's condition will be noticeable already on the fifth day of such therapy: there is less plaque, and cracks and wounds begin to heal. If such drugs do not help, then Amphotericin B is prescribed. It is administered through a vein. You can also take the medicine in tablet form. The therapy lasts a couple of weeks. You need to take medicine twice a day after a meal.

The second group of drugs that are used in the treatment of oral candidiasis are called imidazoles. Examples of such medicines are Clotrimazole, Econazole, Miconazole. The dosage is prescribed by the doctor depending on the severity of the patient's condition and his age. The therapy lasts from 1 to 3 weeks.

To strengthen the human body, especially its immunity, prescribe drugs from the group of vitamins. For example, ascorbic acid, vitamins PP and group B are very useful.

They will stabilize the redox processes and enhance the protective properties of the body. In addition, products that contain iron are very useful. For example, these are Conferon and Ferroplex. They can be purchased in the form of dragees. They will restore the metabolic processes of iron in the human body, which were destabilized due to thrush.

All month you need to take calcium gluconate. This medicine also has a tonic effect, eliminates the symptoms of an allergic reaction that are caused by candidiasis. As for products with anti-allergic properties, Pipolfen, Suprastin, Dimedrol, Fenkarol are also suitable.

To quickly cure the patient and strengthen his immunity, a candida vaccine is used. It is also used as a prophylaxis for various diseases that are caused by fungi of the Candida class, including thrush. To do this, use Methyluracil and Pentoxyl. They cause activation of the synthesis of leukocytes and a certain group of globulins that can fight a fungal infection.

It is also necessary to treat oral candidiasis with the help of drugs with local action. They act directly on the oral mucosa. Will not be absorbed into the blood. Such drugs stop the reproduction and growth of candida, eliminate the unpleasant signs of the disease. In addition, they accelerate the process of tissue regeneration, so that erosion, cracks and wounds that were caused by the fungus heal quickly.

For the treatment of oral candidiasis, aniline-type dyes are usually used. For example, brilliant green, methylene blue are perfect. In addition, Fukortsin is very effective.

You can use iodine preparations and make applications from them. For example, Lugol and Yoddicerin are suitable. For resorption, Lysozyme is prescribed in tablet form. It has bactericidal properties. If the lips are affected (that is, cheilitis develops), then it is recommended to use levorin and nystatin ointment. They also help with seizures, which are caused by a yeast infection.

It is very important to reorganize the oral cavity in order to cure a person from thrush. In other words, it is necessary to begin the treatment of all diseases, pathologies and inflammatory processes in the mouth. This applies to gums, teeth. Mandatory proper care for prostheses. They are recommended to be treated with various agents with antifungal properties (with the exception of aniline-type dyes).

If candidiasis develops in the oral cavity, then it is recommended to rinse your mouth with various alkaline compounds. In addition, solutions with disinfectant properties help well.

Such solutions help to remove plaque, fungus, eliminate inflammation. They also speed up the healing process of tissues. For rinsing the mouth, it is recommended to use the following means:

• a mixture of iodinol and water;
• boric acid (solution with 2% concentration);
• baking soda;
• borax (solution with 2% concentration).

You need to rinse your mouth every 2 hours every day. In addition, the procedure is performed every time after a meal and before going to bed. The therapy lasts 1-2 weeks. Even if there is an improvement in the condition of the oral cavity, it is recommended to continue the procedure.

Helpful for candidiasis folk methods treatment. They can be used as ancillary measures to the main drug therapy. Here are the popular options:

1. Calendula. It will take a spoonful of inflorescences to pour a cup of boiling water. Then cover the container with a lid and wrap in a towel. Leave it like that for an hour. Then drink this drink. Prepare a new one every day. You can also dissolve a spoonful of alcohol tincture in a cup pure water. Then use this solution to rinse the mouth. The treatment will take approximately 2 weeks. Calendula contains natural antibiotics, as well as phytoncides and oils that destroy the fungus. In addition, inflammation and pain disappear.
2. Onion. It is necessary to squeeze the juice from the bulb and wipe the affected areas of the oral cavity with it. Perform the procedure 2-3 times a day. Remove plaque first.
3. Garlic. Use the same way as onions. The plant contains phytoncides that kill fungi and strengthen local immunity.
4. Sagebrush. It is necessary to use its juice to lubricate the affected areas in the oral cavity. In addition, you can pour a spoonful of raw materials with boiling water and then use such an infusion.
5. Cranberry. Candidiasis in the mouth can be eliminated using regular cranberries. It contains a large amount of antibiotics of natural origin and vitamins. You will need to use the juice for rinsing within a month.
6. Kalina. It has the same effect as cranberries. Berry juice is supposed to rinse the mouth several times a day.
7. Carrot. You need to use its juice to rinse your mouth. It has a large number of various vitamins, phytoncides, oils. In addition, it is recommended to drink juice in half a glass 4 times a day. The therapy lasts a month.
8. St. John's wort. It is supposed to prepare a decoction from this herb, then use it to rinse your mouth. To prepare a drink, you need to pour a spoonful of grass with a cup of water, boil for 10 minutes and wait until the product cools down. After that filter. Rinse to carry out 5 times a day for 2 weeks. The tool has antimicrobial, bactericidal and wound healing properties.
9. Rosemary. From it, too, you need to prepare a decoction. It will take 20 g of dried herb per cup of boiling water. Then boil for 20 minutes and use as the previous remedy. Improvements will be noticeable already on the fifth day.
10. Oil. It is recommended to make applications using oils. For example, sea buckthorn, olive, rosehip oil and aloe liniment are suitable. It is necessary to fold the gauze 6 times, soak in oil and apply to the damaged area for 15 minutes. Repeat the procedure for 2 weeks. Oils contain substances that destroy the fungus, accelerate tissue regeneration, strengthen the immune system, and eliminate inflammation.
11. Oak bark. On its basis, you can also prepare a decoction. It will take about 20 g of dried bark for 200 ml of water. It should be cooked for half an hour in a steam bath. Then moisten a piece of gauze in the decoction and apply to sore spots in the mouth. You can also use a decoction for rinsing. Repeat the procedure 4 times a day for 3 weeks.
12. Parsley. To prepare a decoction, you need to use its roots. It will take a spoonful of dried roots to pour a cup cold water and boil. Then wait until the remedy is infused for an hour. After that, filter and take 2 tablespoons 5 times a day. Before swallowing, keep the medicine longer in your mouth. It will take about 1.5-2 weeks to get rid of thrush.
13. Dill. The seeds are used to make a decoction. You will need a spoonful of seeds for 500 ml of boiling water. Means to insist hour. Then strain and consume on an empty stomach a third of a cup 3 times a day.
14. Honey. This product is great for treating oral thrush. First you need to remove the plaque. Then moisten gauze in saline solution and treat sore spots. Then take a spoonful of honey in your mouth and suck it. It will take about a month to heal. Repeat the procedure 4 times a day.

In addition, there are many other traditional medicines that will also help get rid of candidiasis in the mouth.

If oral candidiasis develops, then a diet is also needed. In addition, it helps not only in the treatment, but also in the prevention of such a fungal disease. You will have to exclude from the diet or limit the consumption of various confectionery products and products that contain yeast. It is not recommended to eat fatty meat and fish, mushrooms, sauces. Sweet fruits, coffee, tea, carbonated and alcoholic drinks are harmful. Too sour and spicy food will irritate the mucous membranes, which provokes burning and pain.

But the diet is allowed to include pastries that do not contain yeast. Sour-milk products, greens, vegetables will benefit. You can eat lean meat and fish, cereals. It is recommended to eat nuts and seeds, blueberries, lingonberries, cranberries, and various not too sweet fruits.

Herbal teas and various juices are very useful. It will be best if the food is liquid or semi-liquid. After the patient recovers, it is allowed to gradually expand the diet.

• regularly consult a dentist, cure all diseases of the oral cavity;
• refuse uncontrolled and prolonged use of drugs from the group of sulfonamides and antibiotics;
• stop smoking;
• when using an inhaler during asthma, always rinse it;
• take care of hygiene;
• reduce the consumption of sweets and foods that contain yeast.

To prevent thrush in newborns, you should always wash your nipples and their dishes.

Conclusion

Many people think about how to treat oral candidiasis. Now many medicines have been developed, both with systemic and local action, which will help get rid of such an ailment. But before using them, you need to consult a doctor. In addition, you can always use folk remedies that are no less effective than pharmacy drugs.