What is Mouth Fungus?
Oral fungus is also referred to as oral thrush, a yeast infection that mostly affects infants and toddlers as well as elderly individuals. These types of yeast infections are often caused by the fungus known as Candida Albicans. Though most of us have a small amount of Candida Albicans already in our mouths, if the growth is not controlled, it can lead to oral thrush.
Mouth Fungus Symptoms
As the fungus develops in the mouth and the infection grows, the following symptoms tend to follow:
Dry or cotton-like mouthfeel
Dry, cracked skin at the corners of the lips and mouth
White or yellowish bumps on the lips, gums, inner cheeks, tonsils, and tongue
Bleeding if the sores or bumps are irritated
Difficulty swallowing
Loss of taste
When oral thrush occurs in infants or toddlers, it usually goes away without any medical intervention required. However, it is best to consult with your healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Mouth Fungus Causes
Mouth or oral fungus becomes an issue once it develops into oral thrush. The common causes of the infection can vary, but most usually include:
Overgrowth of Candida Albicans
Certain medications that affect bacteria growth in the body
Medical treatments that make you more susceptible to infections
Compromised immune system due to other underlying medical conditions such as diabetes
Close contact with someone who is contagious
If you suspect that you or someone you know has an infection, consult with your healthcare professional to be properly diagnosed with oral thrush or any other form of mouth or lip fungus.
Mouth Fungus Treatment
If diagnosed with oral thrush, our healthcare provider may prescribe an anti-fungal medication to help treat the infection. Depending on the severity of the infection, medical treatment will vary.
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Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/candidiasis/thrush/index.html
https://www.healthline.com/health/thrush#causes
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/thrush.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/oral-thrush/symptoms-causes/syc-20353533
