Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, making it difficult to breathe and manage many everyday activities. Alongside the more well-known symptoms of COPD, many individuals with the condition experience a decreased appetite and report that food tastes different. This change in taste is often due to a familiar but lesser-known issue: oral thrush.
Lesley Williams, a Registered Respiratory Therapist at Apria with 35 years of experience, states, “Effectively managing COPD requires more than just treating the lungs; it involves understanding and mitigating side effects like oral thrush, which can arise from essential inhaler use. By taking proactive steps and working closely with healthcare providers, patients can maintain both their respiratory and oral health, ensuring comprehensive well-being.”
Oral thrush is a fungal infection caused by the overgrowth of Candida, a type of yeast that naturally exists in small amounts in the mouth. In healthy individuals, the body's immune system keeps Candida under control. However, when the balance is disrupted, Candida can multiply, leading to a condition known as thrush. This infection leaves a white, sometimes creamy, film in the mouth and can significantly impact food taste, often leaving a persistent bad taste.
For most people, oral thrush is a temporary issue that resolves quickly with proper treatment. However, for those with COPD, the situation can be more complicated due to a weakened immune system, making it harder to fight off infections like thrush.
Oral thrush can present with several noticeable symptoms, including:
If you notice any of these symptoms, particularly if you have COPD, it’s essential to take them seriously and seek medical advice.
Inhalers, especially those containing corticosteroids, are a cornerstone of COPD treatment. These medications help reduce inflammation in the lungs, making it easier to breathe. However, corticosteroids also weaken the immune system. When you use an inhaler, some of the medication can linger in your mouth and throat, creating an environment where Candida can thrive.
This increased risk of oral thrush is a common side effect of corticosteroid inhalers. While the medication is crucial for managing COPD, it's important to be aware of this potential side effect and take steps to minimize the risk.
Fortunately, there are several strategies you can employ to reduce the likelihood of developing oral thrush while managing COPD:
If you suspect that you have developed oral thrush, it’s essential to contact your doctor promptly. Since COPD weakens your immune system, thrush can become more challenging to treat if not addressed early. Typically, your doctor will prescribe antifungal medication to clear the infection. Early intervention is critical, so don’t hesitate to seek medical help if you notice symptoms of thrush.
Managing COPD involves balancing the use of essential medications with potential side effects like oral thrush. By understanding the connection between your inhaler use and the risk of thrush, you can take proactive steps to prevent it. Always consult your healthcare provider for the best strategies to keep your COPD and oral health in check, ensuring that your treatment plan supports your overall well-being.
References
Batsiou, Maria, Richard Dekhuijzen, Leif Bjermer, Sinthia Nosnic-Anticevich, Henry Chrystyn, Alberto Papi, Roberto Rodríuez-Roisin, et al. “Incidence of Oral Thrush in Patients with COPD Prescribed Inhaled Corticosteroids: Effect of Drug, Dose, and Device.” PubMed, September 22, 2016.
Khijmatgar, Shahnawaz, Giridhar Belur, Rajesh Venkataram, Mohmed Isaqali Karobari, Anand Marya, Veena Shetty, Avidyuti Chowdhury, et al. “Oral Candidal Load and Oral Health Status in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Patients: A Case-Cohort Study.” BioMed research international, September 11, 2021.
“Overview: Oral Thrush.” InformedHealth.org [Internet]., December 13, 2022.
“Thrush: What Is It and How to Get Rid of It.” Cleveland Clinic, May 1, 2024.
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