Early Signs Of HIV To Be Aware Of

Thrush

Just like a sore throat and mouth ulcers, an individual who has been infected with HIV may also develop thrush. Oral thrush occurs when a yeast infection develops on the inside of the mouth or on the tongue. Also known as oral candidiasis, the Candida albicans fungus is what ultimately causes thrush to develop. A tiny amount of the fungus normally lives in the mouth without causing any harm, however, when the fungus begins to grow uncontrollably, an infection can develop. Symptoms of oral thrush include creamy white bumps on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, or tonsils, slight bleeding when the bumps are scraped, painful bumps, dry and cracked skin at the corners of the mouth, difficulty swallowing, and a bad taste in the mouth. Although common in toddlers and children, oral thrush can occur when the immune system is compromised, such as when an individual is infected with HIV.