White patches in the mouth can be a symptom of these 5 diseases

Maintaining cleanliness and oral health is important. This is done to prevent your teeth and mouth from various possible health problems. This mouth problem can be seen with several symptoms, such as white patches in the mouth. This could be a sign of symptoms of an oral disorder.

Causes of white patches in the mouth

1. Oral thrush

Source: TreatMD

Oral thrush is a fungal infection of the mouth and tongue caused by Candida albicans . Generally, Candida it is already in the mouth, but the amount is very small. In addition, this fungus is usually controlled by other bacteria in the body, so the numbers remain balanced and do not spread widely.

However, certain diseases or drugs can disrupt the balance of fungi and bacteria. As a result, the population Candida uncontrolled, that's when the yeast infection began to occur in the mouth.

This condition causes white patches on the mouth, tongue, or inner cheeks. This yeast infection also sometimes spreads to the roof of the mouth or gums.

2. Leukoplakia

Source: TreatMD

Leukoplakia is a thick white or gray plaque with a raised surface inside the mouth (more commonly on the tongue and lining of the mouth). Generally, leukoplakia is owned by smokers or people who chew tobacco. In addition, alcohol dependence or inflammation and irritation from dentures can also cause this condition. However, other irritants can also result in this condition.

White patches in the mouth from leukoplakia are usually harmless. However, in rare cases, this condition can develop into cancer which is characterized by white, reddish plaques.

3. Oral herpes

Oral herpes is an infection of the mouth, lips, or gums caused by the herpes simplex-1 or HSV-1 virus. Oral herpes is characterized by sore gums and the appearance of swelling around the mouth and white patches in the mouth area.

If you have been infected with this virus, there will be a chance of relapse up to 4 times a day. This condition is contagious and can be spread through oral sex.

4. HIV complications

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a common cause of sores or blisters in the mouth. According to National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research It is estimated that at least one-third of HIV patients have oral complications such as white patches in the mouth, painful sores, or blisters.

If you have HIV, these white patches can be more painful and difficult to remove and treat. Be careful, because the virus can be passed from one person to another, especially when you have an open wound or patches that peel off and cause bleeding.

There is no cure for HIV completely. However, if detected early, you can undergo antiretroviral treatment (ARV) to block the virus and strengthen your immune system to fight infection.

5. Oral cancer

Source: Mayo Clinic

Oral cancer can occur anywhere in the mouth, but is most common in the mouth, tongue and lips.

Oral cancer symptoms almost resemble other mouth problems. This is what makes it difficult for doctors to distinguish oral cancer from common oral problems. However, some common symptoms include:

• The presence of lumps, peeling skin like crusts, or patches in the mouth
• Bleeding in the mouth without cause
• Numbness, pain without cause in the mouth area
• Loose teeth
• Pain or something like a stuck in the throat
• Difficulty swallowing
• Swollen neck
• Ear pain that doesn't go away
• Drastic weight loss
• Hoarseness, chronic sore throat, or change in voice

Ultimately, the best way to spot and treat white patches in the mouth is to see a doctor. Your doctor can provide the best diagnosis and treatment guidance for your condition.