Thrush on the tongue is certainly very torturous. The stinging caused often makes sufferers lose their appetite and are uncomfortable when speaking. However, you don't need to worry, because there are ways to treat thrush on the tongue that you can do.
Canker sores on the tongue can be recognized by their appearance, which looks like white sores or blisters. Not only on the tongue, canker sores can also appear on the inner cheeks, gums, tonsils, to the back of the throat.
Causes of Thrush on the Tongue
Thrush on the tongue can be caused by several things, including:
- Stress
- Chronic diseases, such as diabetes
- HIV infection
- Cancer
- Smoking habit
- Side effects of certain drugs and chemotherapy
- Impact or bite wounds on the tongue, cheeks or lips
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy
Besides being caused by the various conditions above, thrush on the tongue can also occur due to an infection in the mouth caused by fungi. This condition is known as oral thrush.
Use of Antifungal Drugs for Thrush on the Tongue
Canker sores that are not caused by a yeast infection usually get better on their own within a few days to 2 weeks.
However, if thrush is caused by a fungal infection, antifungal medication is needed to stop its growth. The drug can be in the form of tablets or mouthwash.
The following are some options for antifungal drugs for thrush on the tongue:
- Fluconazole
- Clomatrizole
- Nystatin
- Itraconazole, given if other drugs can not cope with thrush on the tongue
- Amphotericin B, given for canker sores on the tongue that are classified as severe
When a baby who receives breast milk has thrush on the tongue, treatment in the form of an antifungal cream is also given to be rubbed around the mother's breast. This is to prevent repeated infections.
Thrush on the tongue should get treatment from a doctor, especially if it doesn't get better or the exact cause is unknown.
Treatment of thrush on the tongue independently at home
There are several ways that you can do yourself at home to relieve the pain caused by canker sores on the tongue, namely:
- Brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day.
- Change your toothbrush regularly and don't share your toothbrush with other people, even with your own relatives or spouse.
- Gargle with salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt and one cup warm water) several times a day.
- Drink more water and use a straw if canker sores hurt when drinking.
- Consuming unsweetened yogurt that contains bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus to restore the number of good bacteria in the mouth.
- Limiting your intake of sugar and yeast-containing products, such as bread, beer, or wine, because it can accelerate the development of fungi.
Even though it looks mild, never underestimate canker sores on the tongue, especially if it's bothersome and doesn't get better after a few days. Immediately consult a doctor to get the right treatment.