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Thrush Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

The symptoms of thrush occur in the mouth. Symptoms include:

  • White, raised patches
  • Red, slightly raised patches
  • Discharge with a curd-like appearance (like cottage cheese)
  • Thick, dark brownish coating in the mouth
  • Dry mouth
  • Fissures or cracks in the mouth

If the infection spreads down your esophagus, you may also experience:

  • Difficulty or pain with swallowing
  • Sensation of something “stuck” in your throat

If thrush spreads systemically, you may develop a fever.

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and examine your mouth. A sample of cells from the affected area may be scraped off and examined under a microscope.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2026 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.

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