Thrush can be caused by a variety of reasons. It can be due to a weakened immune system; medications taken for certain conditions and you can be at an increased risk due to medical conditions which already exist. Whatever the cause of thrush, it can be irritating and a painful condition.
The Causes of Thrush due to Weakened Immune System
Many factors can cause the body’s immune system to become weak and not as efficient as the normal status. Usually, the immune system when properly functioning is able to fight off bacteria, fungi and viruses because it maintains a balance in the microbes of the body. When the immune system has become weak by medication, disease or other means the natural balance of the microorganisms of the body is disturbed opening the door to infections such as candida.
The Causes of Thrush Related to Medication
Taking some medications can cause the immune system to become weak or put you at an increased risk of developing thrush. Some of these medications include antibiotics especially if you do not complete the entire prescribed amount. If you take just enough until you feel better you have succeeded in killing off the good bacteria in the body and not the bad bacteria which results in a yeast or a thrush infection. This is one of the reasons your Doctor and Pharmacist always tell you to take the entire prescribed amount of medication. Another form of medications that can cause thrush is the use of corticosteroids either oral or inhaled. Persons with asthma or respiratory problems often are prescribed these medications.
The Causes of Thrush Due to Medical Conditions
Many people who have existing medical or dental conditions are at an increased risk of developing a thrush infection.
- Diabetes Mellitus – Uncontrolled blood glucose can result in the saliva containing large amounts of sugar making conditions more favorable for the growth of candida which is thrush.
- Cancer – Treatment for cancer and the disease itself can cause a weakened immune system which increases your risk of thrush.
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV/AIDS) – Often repetitive bouts of oral thrush can be the first sign that you may have HIV. The HIV virus causes damage and destruction to the cells of the immune system which makes persons with HIV more susceptible to thrush and other infections.
- Mothers of breast fed babies with oral thrush are at increased risk of developing thrush of the breast and then passing it back and forth to the baby during breastfeeding.
If you think you have thrush seek treatment for the condition to prevent the spread of the condition further. The condition can spread down the esophagus leading to further complications and making treatment more difficult.
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