Overview
Oral thrush is a fungal infection of the mouth caused by an overgrowth of Candida yeast, which normally lives harmlessly in the mouth. It shows up as creamy white patches on the tongue and inner cheeks that can be sore and may bleed when wiped. It is common in babies, denture wearers, and people with diabetes, on inhaled steroids, or with a weak immune system, and clears with antifungal treatment.
Symptoms
- Creamy white patches on the tongue, cheeks or palate
- Redness or soreness inside the mouth
- A cottony feeling and loss of taste
- Slight bleeding if the patches are scraped
- Cracking at the corners of the mouth
When to see a doctor
See a doctor or dentist for white mouth patches that are sore or persistent, especially with diabetes or a weak immune system.
Causes
Overgrowth of Candida yeast, encouraged by antibiotics, inhaled steroids, diabetes, dentures, dry mouth and a weakened immune system.