Thrush Treatment

Thrush is a fungal infection that is easily treatable. Get expert medical advice from our AHPRA-accredited online doctors and health practitioners, available 24/7.

This guide does not replace professional care. In emergencies, call 000 or visit a hospital immediately.

About thrush

Thrush is a common fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida yeast, which can affect various parts of the body, including the mouth, throat, and genitals. In oral thrush, symptoms include white patches on the tongue and inner cheeks, redness, and discomfort, while vaginal thrush often leads to itching, irritation, and a thick, white discharge. Factors like weakened immunity, antibiotic use, diabetes, pregnancy, and hormonal changes can increase the risk of thrush. While it’s usually not serious, recurrent infections may require medical attention. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications, either topical or oral, and lifestyle adjustments to help prevent future outbreaks.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC

It is important to seek medical advice for thrush if symptoms persist, worsen, or frequently recur. You should consult a doctor if you experience:

  • Persistent symptoms: If itching, soreness, or discomfort does not improve with over-the-counter treatments.
  • Recurrences: If you experience thrush multiple times within a short period, it may indicate an underlying issue.
  • Difficulty swallowing: If oral thrush spreads to the throat, making eating or drinking uncomfortable.
  • Thick discharge: If vaginal thrush leads to severe irritation, swelling, or abnormal discharge.
  • Weakened immune system: If you have diabetes, HIV, or are undergoing chemotherapy, as thrush can become more serious.
  • Thrush during pregnancy: If you develop vaginal thrush while pregnant, consult a doctor for safe treatment options.
  • No improvement: If symptoms persist despite using antifungal medications, a doctor may prescribe a stronger or alternative treatment.

Thrush can affect different parts of the body:

  • Oral thrush: White patches in the mouth and throat.
  • Vaginal thrush: Itching, irritation, and white discharge.
  • Diaper rash: Candidiasis affecting babies’ skin in the diaper area.
  • Invasive candidiasis: A serious infection that enters the bloodstream, typically affecting immunocompromised individuals.

Thrush symptoms vary depending on the affected area but generally include discomfort, irritation, and abnormal discharge.

Oral thrush symptoms:

  • White, creamy patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, roof of the mouth, or throat
  • Redness or soreness in the mouth
  • Pain or difficulty swallowing
  • Loss of taste or a cotton-like feeling in the mouth
  • Cracked corners of the mouth (angular cheilitis)

 

Vaginal thrush symptoms:

  • Intense itching and irritation around the vagina and vulva
  • Thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge
  • Redness, swelling, or soreness in the vaginal area
  • Pain or discomfort during sex or urination

 

Other forms of thrush:

  • Diaper rash: Red, irritated skin with white patches in babies
  • Skin thrush: Red, itchy rash in moist skin folds
  • Penile thrush: Redness, irritation, and white patches on the penis
Vaginal thrush during pregnancy is common due to hormonal changes. It does not typically harm the baby, but untreated thrush can sometimes be passed to the baby during childbirth, leading to oral thrush in newborns. If you are pregnant and have thrush, consult your doctor for safe treatment options.

Several home remedies may help manage thrush symptoms and support recovery. Some of the home remedies for thrush are:

  • Maintaining good hygiene and keeping the affected area dry can prevent the overgrowth of Candida.
  • Probiotics, such as yogurt with live cultures or probiotic supplements, may help restore a healthy balance of bacteria and yeast in the body.
  • Coconut oil and diluted tea tree oil have antifungal properties and can be applied topically for relief.
  • Rinsing the mouth with salt water or a baking soda solution can help soothe oral thrush.
  • Garlic and apple cider vinegar are also known for their antifungal properties and may be beneficial when included in the diet.
  • Reducing sugar intake can help prevent yeast from thriving.

While these remedies may provide relief, they are not a substitute for medical treatment.

Mild oral thrush may clear up without treatment, but persistent or worsening symptoms often require medical treatment. People with weakened immune systems or diabetes should not ignore oral thrush, as it can spread and cause complications.

Yes, thanks to telehealth services, you can now easily access online scripts from the comfort of your home, 24/7. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting an eScript:

Hola Health connects you with AHPRA-registered medical practitioners within minutes for medical advice, medical certificates, online scripts, online doctor referrals and more. Here’s how you can speak to an online doctor for thrush:

Yes, you can speak to a registered practitioner 24/7 using Hola Health’s night doctor service. Connect with a health practitioner within 15 minutes after clinical hours, on weekends or during public holidays from anywhere in Australia.

If you are suffering from thrush and cannot fulfil your daily activities such as work, school or any other activity, you can easily request a sick certificate online from Hola Health. Here’s the process to request a medical certificate online:

  • Click on medical certificates and submit your request.
  • Choose the certificate type.
  • Fill in your details, the reason for your request, and make the payment.
  • A qualified health practitioner will review your request. If you need a multi-day medical certificate, then a doctor will have a brief consult to discuss your requirements over the phone or video call.
  • If approved, an online doctor’s certificate will be emailed to your registered email address.

If your thrush is severe or persistent, an online doctor may give you:

Get instant access to qualified health practitioners from the comfort of your home with Hola Health. Connect with AHPRA-accredited online doctors and healthcare practitioners 24/7 and within 15 minutes from anywhere. With telehealth you can do:

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