Thrush in babies

Thrush is an infection that is caused by a yeast germ called Candida, which lives on healthy skin and mouths completely harmlessly until sometimes the Candida germs ‘overgrow’ in the mouths of babies, giving them oral thrush. It is the same infection that adults can get on there genitals, but has no relation to that area and is a common condition in babies. It often happens in the first weeks of life and can happen if your child is on antibiotics for something else that make his resistance to these germs low.

Symptoms
Oral thrush usually starts with small white spots appearing in the mouth, on the roof of the mouth and on the tongue. The spots then join to form bigger spots and turn a greyish yellow. Some babies will experience thrush in the anus that looks like nappy rash. If you notice a rash around the anus at the same time your baby has oral thrush mention this to your doctor as a special cream can be prescribed. Although the mouth can get sore, most babies do not seem bothered by oral thrush but they may dribble more than usual and some babies go off their food because their mouths are sore.

Treatments
Your doctor can diagnose oral thrush by examining the spots in your child’s mouth. Most mild thrush will clear on its own but it is best to consult your doctor if your baby has thrush. A liquid anti-fungal cream medicine can be prescribed to drop onto the affected area of your baby’s mouth. If your baby has anal thrush a special cream can be prescribed to clear it up.

Breastfeeding and oral thrush
If you are breastfeeding and your baby develops oral thrush mention this to your doctor as the infection could be being passed back to your baby from your nipples. If your breasts are infected with thrush you may experience:
Unusually red or sensitive nipples
Taut shiny skin around the areola
Unusual pain whilst nursing and painful nipples between feeds
Stabbing pains deep within your breasts.
Your doctor can prescribe you a cream to put on your nipples that will clear up your infection so that you and your baby are not passing it back and forwards to each other during feeds.

How can I help my baby?
If your baby is on solids give him cooling smooth foods like cool natural yogurt or a frozen banana to know on to help soothe his mouth.
Wash your hands and your baby’s hands frequently, especially after nappy changes. Try to stop your baby’s fingers from touching his bottom during nappy changes as this could spread the infection.
Regularly clean dummies, teats, bottles and anything your baby likes to put in his mouth.