Thrush is caused by the Candida albicans yeast, which can also cause vaginal infections and diaper rashes. When it infects a child's mouth, it is called oropharyngeal Candidiasis, or more simply, thrush.
Although sometimes painful, the most common symptom of thrush is white patches coating the insides of an infant's mouth. You may see these patches on the insides of her cheeks, on her tongue, on the roof of her mouth, and on her lips and gums as it spreads.
These white patches, unlike breast milk or formula, can not easily be wiped away.
Treatments for thrush include:
- Nystatin oral suspension - a prescription antifungal medication that is given 4 times a day. Keep in mind that it is the direct contact of Nystatin with the yeast that combats the infection, so you want to rub it in with a gauze or your finger after you give your baby her dose.
- Fluconazole (Diflucan) - another prescription antifungal medication. It is considered a second line treatment to be used when Nystatin isn't working, but has the benefit of once a day dosing and you don't have to rub it in for it to work.
- Gentian Violet - an older treatment that doesn't require a prescription. Keep in mind that Gentian Violet is rather messy and can turn your baby's lips (temporary) and clothing (not always so temporary) purple, so it is not as popular as other treatments.
Breastfeeding mothers who have a baby with thrush may get a yeast infection on their breasts and nipples, causing pain while nursing. Along with their baby, these mothers also need to be treated by their doctor.
Infants get thrush because the Candida albicans yeast is ubiquitous or everywhere, so no matter how carefully you clean and sterilize pacifiers, bottles and toys, your baby may get thrush. Still, you should carefully clean any objects that go into your child's mouth.
