By the way, doctor: What can I do about thrush?

Q. I've had thrush three times this year. I read that it can be connected to stress, but also to serious diseases. One doctor told me I was "somatizing." What is thrush and could it be related to somatizing?

A. Thrush is an infection of the mouth caused by a common fungus or yeast called candida (pronounced CAN-did-a). It often causes whitish sores inside the cheeks, on the tongue, and in the back of the throat. Some people experience a loss of taste, or feel pain when they swallow. Thrush can be a serious problem for people with dentures; the wet, warm space underneath the denture is an ideal place for candida to multiply.