Causes Of Thrush

Small amounts of candida fungus occurs in the mouth, gastrointestinal tract, and skin of most healthy people, and usually under the control of bacteria and other microorganisms in the body. Some medical conditions, stress or medications can disturb the delicate balance that makes the fungus candida to grow out of control, causing thrush.

Drugs that have upset the balance of microorganisms in the mouth can cause thrush include corticosteroids, antibiotics and birth control pills. Diseases or medical conditions that make candida infection more likely to develop include uncontrolled diabetes, HIV infection, cancer, dry mouth, or pregnancy (caused by hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy). People who smoke or wear dentures that do not fit properly also are at greater risk of thrush. In addition, babies can pass the infection to their mothers during lactation.