Thrush IMO was the worst pain ever. My nipple hurt if my clothes rubbed on them i couldnt dry myself properly after a shower- any sort of touch and i was almost in tears. Mine started a little itchy but where so badly damaged i thought they were healing and then they stung like crazy- felt like they were on fire. I had never had any sort of yeast infection b4 i had thrush in my nipples so it was my 1st. Ask your Dr to take a swab to check JIC even if he doesnt think it is at least then you can rule it out iykwim. Good luck and well done for persevering this long