Thrush is a yeast infection in the mouth, on the tongue, and in the throat caused by the candida fungus. Candida fungus is present in the mouth in small amounts – naturally. But when the candida balance is thrown out of kilter – thrush occurs. Asthma inhalers can cause thrush – particularly those that are corticosteroid inhalers. This is because most of the drug ends up in your throat on its way to the lungs. It’s important to use the spacer that comes with the inhaler as this will help reduce the risk of developing thrush. In addition, one should gargle with water and/or brush their teeth after using their inhaler.
(Image courtesy of Mayo Clinic)
Thrush doesn’t always look like this. It can look like extreme redness of the mouth, tongue and throat.. The white patches aren’t always as prominent as seen in this picture either. At times, thrush may bleed. Sometimes the thrush will go away on its own but not always. When it doesn’t, an anti-fungal med is given which can be in the form of oral, liquid, or lozenges.