Who hasn’t heard that phrase when picking up a baby: don’t kiss them or they might get thrush!? Many people don’t even know what it is and confuse it with heat rash that often appears in some regions of the baby’s body, such as the face and other warmer parts of the body1.
What is thrush?
Thrush is a mild infection caused by a fungus called Candida albicans2 which mainly affects babies up to 6 months old due to their low immunity and body resistance, making them susceptible to several infections.
Also known as oral candidiasis, it appears as small white spots in the mouth, which can be easily mistaken for milk residue. These usually show up on the tongue, inside the cheeks, and on the roof of the mouth.
Contrary to popular belief, kissing is not a way to transmit thrush. Unless the child is kissed directly on the mouth and the bacteria is passed on that way. Other ways to catch the infection include using poorly washed objects, such as pacifiers and baby bottles.
Care and Prevention
That’s why it’s important to thoroughly clean these objects before giving them to the baby. Bottles should be properly washed after the child’s feeding and pacifiers should be boiled regularly, especially after falling on the floor, which is very common.
Utensils should also be taken care of, especially rubber and plastic spoons made for children. Just water and soap do not clean these objects sufficiently, so using boiling water is recommended for better hygiene.
Another way thrush can be passed on is during childbirth. If the woman has vaginal candidiasis and it is not properly treated during prenatal care, the fungus can be transmitted as the baby passes through the vaginal canal.
Another reason why thrush can occur, now even more often in older babies, is after using antibiotics. Since antibiotics alter the oral flora, they favor the growth and spread of fungi already present in the mouth.
Discomforts of Thrush
Thrush is not a dangerous infection, its main issue is during feeding. As the white spots are painful, they make it uncomfortable to eat, which can cause dehydration especially in babies who are still breastfeeding. Usually, a pain reliever is recommended to reduce the pain and make feeding easier.
How to Treat Thrush?
Treatment for thrush is relatively simple3. It is done using antifungal ointments such as miconazole and nystatin, which should be applied to the entire affected area in the mouth, inside the cheeks, and especially on the tongue.
In some cases thrush may spread to the baby’s throat and reach the esophagus. In such cases, oral antifungal medications are indicated in addition to pain relievers, which are essential for relieving pain and discomfort during eating, even liquids.
Breastfed Babies
For breastfed babies, it may be recommended to use antifungal ointment on the mother’s nipple as well, to prevent the fungus from passing back and forth. If the baby develops a fever over 38 degrees Celsius, it’s recommended to go back to the pediatrician, as this is a sign that the infection is getting worse.
In general, thrush is very uncomfortable but goes away quickly. So a good dose of patience and lots of affection, along with proper treatment, are enough to get through this discomfort.
See also: Candidiasis in Babies – Is it Possible for My Baby to Have It?
Photo: Steven & Courtney Johnso, danielpeinado.photo
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