How Do You Treat Thrush?

Candidiasis is a fungal infection which is also known as thrush or yeast infection. It belongs to the Candida species, and the most common is Candida albicans. It usally occurs in the exposed and moist areas of the body . It can be found in the oral cavity, the vagina and the diaper area. However, in patients who have an immune deficiency, the esophagus could be affected and it can become systemic, leading to fungemia which is a much more serious condition.
Mild cases of thrush can be treated by home remedies like application of yogurt and  acidophilus tablets or salves. Gentian violet (1%) is also used in treatment for adults. More severe thrush can be treated by using either substances available over-the-counter  or by prescription antifungal medications. One should seek medical treatment if the infection is very severe. If breastfeeding, it is vital to treat any yeast infection and the nipples should be cleaned very carefully after each feeding.

First, the condition that caused the thrush must be brought under control. This might involve investing in new dentures or adjusting diabetes treatment. For AIDS patients, a course of oral treatment using antifungal drugs is in order.
Thrush in infants is usually treated with a prescription medicine called Nystatin given four times a day. Treatment is continued for about seven to 10 days then for at least three days when there are no more signs of thrush. You may want to use gauze to directly rub the medication on the white patches.
Fluconazole (Diflucan) is another prescription medication for thrush. It is administered once a day, and is usually used as a second-line treatment, when Nystatin doesn't work.
In one small study comparing Fluconazole and Nystatin for treatment of thrush in infants, the former was shown to be superior.
Another, natural alternative is nonprescription gentian violet, but it can turn the baby's lips and clothing purple.