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Thrush
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen provides expert, compassionate care for oral thrush—yeast infections manifesting as white mouth patches. From thorough diagnosis and lifestyle tips to targeted medications and endoscopy, he delivers personalized treatment for patients across all ages.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Recent or prolonged use of antibiotics
Infants under 6 months with an immature immune system
Diabetes or uncontrolled high blood sugar
Weakened immunity due to illness or immunosuppressive medications
Use of inhaled corticosteroids for asthma or COPD
Signs and Symptoms
White, creamy patches on the tongue, cheeks, or gums
Red or sore areas underneath the white patches
Cracks or redness at the corners of the mouth
Unpleasant or altered taste in the mouth
Pain or discomfort when eating or swallowing
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Thrush?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Clinical Examination
He inspects your mouth for characteristic white or creamy patches, redness, cracks at the corners, and asks about pain, taste changes, or swallowing difficulties.
Medical History and Risk Assessment
He reviews recent antibiotic or inhaled steroid use, blood sugar control in diabetics, immune status, and—if it's a baby—feeding habits and pacifier hygiene.
Diagnostic Swab
Dr. Nguyen gently swabs the affected areas to send for laboratory culture, confirming Candida overgrowth and excluding other infections.
Further Evaluation (for severe or persistent cases)
Endoscopy: Uses a thin, flexible camera to examine the esophagus and stomach if deeper infection is suspected.
Additional cultures or imaging when an underlying condition (like immunodeficiency) needs investigation.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for thrush.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Tips
Rinse with warm salt water after meals
Cut down on sugar and processed foods
Use a soft toothbrush to protect tender tissues
Clean pacifiers and bottles daily (for babies)
2. Medications
Nystatin drops for babies and children
Clotrimazole lozenges or troches
Fluconazole pills for adults with severe thrush
Gentian violet (only under doctor's advice for babies)
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Care
Endoscopic evaluation for deeper or resistant infections
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes thrush in babies?
Thrush in infants often stems from an imbalance of oral bacteria, an immature immune system, or yeast transferred during birth.
How do I treat baby thrush?
Apply prescribed nystatin drops, keep bottles and pacifiers sterilized, and for older babies, gentle salt-water rinses can soothe symptoms.
Is gentian violet safe for treating thrush?
Gentian violet is sometimes used in stubborn cases but only under direct medical supervision due to potential staining and irritation.
Can adults get thrush?
Yes. Adults with diabetes, weakened immunity, recent antibiotic use, or inhaled steroid therapy are at higher risk and may need lozenges or oral antifungals.
How long does thrush treatment take?
Most patients notice improvement within 7-14 days of starting antifungal therapy, coupled with recommended dietary and hygiene measures.
Can thrush recur after treatment?
Recurrence is possible. Maintaining good oral hygiene, controlling blood sugar, and following preventive tips can reduce the risk.
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