Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Yeast Infection, Oral - Oral Thrush
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Oral thrush, or oral Candida, is caused by a fungus or yeast named Candida. This is the same organism that causes vaginal yeast infections. The infection occurs on the moist surfaces of the tongue, palate, cheeks, and lips. Oral Candida infections are fairly common in adults. They can affect up to 5% of newborn infants as well.
What is going on in the body?
This disease often occurs during or after a course of antibiotics. This is because the antibiotic can reduce the number of bacteria that routinely grow in the mouth. These bacteria normally keep the level of Candida fungi in check. When they are not present, the yeast overgrows.
This fungus can infect people of all ages. However, it is most often seen in newborns and the elderly unless other health problems are present.
Conditions that may contribute to thrush include:
What are the causes and risks of the infection?
Areas of infection can become more severely infected. They may spread to the throat or esophagus, which can be serious. Being unable to maintain a healthy diet may add to the problem. Oral Candida infection can be an indication of a serious systemic disease.