Thrush is a fungal infection signified by a sore mouth and is
one of the few conditions that involves soreness of the tongue. The tongue and inner cheeks become reddened,
often followed by the development of a white, cottage cheese-looking
coating. While thrush can affect anyone,
it is most common in those with compromised immune systems, infants (especially
newborns), and older adults. Thrush is generally
a minor issue in healthy individuals. It
can be much more difficult to control in those with weakened immune
systems. Thrush is also a common
occurrence after taking antibiotics (particularly tetracycline or ampicillin[1]) or corticosteroids. It also frequently affects adult denture
wearers.[2] [3]
Prevention:
Denture wearers can prevent thrush by removing dentures
nightly and cleaning thoroughly.
Treatment:
- Conventional treatment options
- Nystatin oral suspension, ½ teaspoon swished in mouth and
swallowed, 4 times per day[4] - Mycelex troches (1 dissolved in mouth, 5 times per day.
Unfortunately, both of the above antifungals are available
by prescription only. Even more unfortunately,
they aren’t available from All Day Chemist.
- Alternative treatment options
- Gentian violet in a 1-2% solution is available at pharmacies
for less than $10. A single application
swabbed all over tongue and cheeks usually does the trick, but may be repeated
after a few days if needed. - Blackberry leaf infusion, 2-3 teaspoons steeped in 1 cup hot water for 6-8 minutes
- Coconut oil, 1 teaspoon with 2-3 drops of peppermint
essential oil, swished in the mouth - Chewing garlic or eating yogurt may help.[5]
However, once the cause of the thrush is removed, the
condition will usually resolve on its own.
Links to related
posts:
[1]
David Werner, Where There Is No Doctor, 1992, 232.
[2]
Cynthia Koelker, Armageddon Medicine, 2012, 148.
[3]
David Werner, Where There Is No Doctor, 1992, 232.
[4]
Cynthia Koelker, Armageddon Medicine, 2012, 148.
[5]
David Werner, Where There Is No Doctor, 1992, 232.