Oral thrush
Fungal infections Oral thrush is an undesirable side effect of inhaled corticosteroid medications used to treat lung diseases. This side effect (familiar to some patients with alpha-1 corticosteroids) could easily be avoided, as such fungal infections are more likely to occur when drug particles settle on the oral mucosa and weaken the immune system. To prevent this, rinse your mouth with water after inhaling and, if necessary, gargle or inhale immediately before a meal. Using an inhaler spacer can also help.
Oral thrush usually develops when the immune system is not strong enough to prevent the spread of the fungi.
Symptoms of oral thrush:
- White coating (not removable) on tongue and inside of cheeks
- Pain when eating and drinking
- Bad breath
If you suspect you have oral thrush, you should see your doctor. Oral thrush should always be treated, as the infection can spread.
Oral thrush can usually be quickly controlled through timely and consistent treatment with antifungal medications (containing active ingredients such as nystatin or clotrimazole).
These medications, called antifungals, inhibit the growth of fungi or kill them. Treatment should always be discussed with a doctor. Self-treatment with home remedies is not recommended, as this can worsen oral thrush.
