Thrush

What is thrush and how to treat it

Elaine Godley

Last Update a year ago

Thrush is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of the yeast Candida albicans, which normally lives harmlessly in the body[1][4]. 


It can occur in various parts of the body, including the mouth and vagina.Common causes of thrush include:


1. Taking antibiotics[1][4]

2. Pregnancy[1][4]

3. Poorly controlled diabetes[1][4]

4. Weakened immune system[1][4]

5. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)[1]

6. High estrogen levels[9]


Medical treatment for thrush typically involves antifungal medications, such as:


1. Clotrimazole or fluconazole[2]

2. Nystatin[5]

3. Oral capsules, pessaries, or creams[2][4]


Treatment usually lasts 7 to 14 days, but may be extended for recurring cases[1][5].


Top 10 Natural Remedies for Thrush


1. Apple cider vinegar: Consume 1 tablespoon twice daily or gargle with diluted solution[3][8].


2. Yogurt: Eat yogurt with live cultures or apply directly to affected area[3][7].


3. Garlic: Consume raw garlic cloves or add to food[3].


4. Coconut oil: Apply topically or use for oil pulling[3][7][10].


5. Salt water rinse: Gargle with 1/2 teaspoon salt in warm water twice daily[3][12].


6. Probiotics: Consume probiotic-rich foods or supplements[7].


7. Tea tree oil: Dilute with carrier oil and apply to affected area[7].


8. Lemon juice: Mix juice of half a lemon with water and drink or use as a mouth rinse[8].


9. Turmeric: Make "golden milk" with turmeric paste, black pepper, and milk[8].


10. Baking soda rinse: Use for oral thrush[12].


While these natural remedies may help alleviate symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment, especially for severe or recurring cases of thrush.


Citations:


[1] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/thrush-in-men-and-women/

[2] https://www.canesten.com.au/intimate-health/thrush

[3] https://e-surgery.com/five-natural-home-remedies-for-thrush/

[4] https://www.canesten.co.uk/intimate-health/learning-zone/what-is-thrush

[5] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10956-thrush

[6] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/oral-thrush/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353539

[7] https://hola.health/health-info/infections/home-remedies-for-thrush-vaginal-yeast-infections/

[8] https://www.healthline.com/health/home-remedies-for-thrush

[9] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/vaginal-thrush

[10] https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/remedies-for-oral-thrush

[11]https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/vaginal-thrush

[12] https://health.clevelandclinic.org/thrush-the-white-stuff-growing-in-your-mouth-and-how-to-get-rid-of-it

[13] https://www.canesten.co.uk/intimate-health/thrush

[14]https://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/public+content/sa+health+internet/conditions/infectious+diseases/thrush/thrush+-+including+symptoms+treatment+and+prevention

[15] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/oral-thrush/symptoms-causes/syc-20353533


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