What are the symptoms of thrush in a newborn?

Understanding Thrush in Newborns
Thrush, a common yeast infection caused by the fungus *Candida*, can affect newborns, leading to a range of symptoms that may cause concern for parents. This condition primarily manifests in the mouth but can also extend to other areas, such as the diaper region.
Symptoms of Thrush
The most recognizable symptom of thrush in newborns is the presence of white patches on the tongue and inside the cheeks. These patches often resemble cottage cheese and may not be easily wiped away. If parents attempt to remove these spots, they might notice that the underlying tissue is red and may bleed slightly, indicating irritation.
In addition to the oral symptoms, thrush can make feeding uncomfortable for the baby. Infants may exhibit signs of discomfort or pain while breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, which can lead to fussiness during feeding times. This discomfort can stem from the irritation caused by the thrush lesions in the mouth.
Another important aspect to consider is that thrush can sometimes be accompanied by a yeast diaper infection. This manifests as a red, shiny rash in the folds of the baby’s skin, particularly around the buttocks and thighs. Tiny red spots may also appear scattered across the diaper area. This dual occurrence can complicate the situation, as it may lead to further discomfort for the newborn.
Transmission and Risk Factors
Thrush is often passed between a mother and her baby during breastfeeding, especially if the mother has a yeast infection herself. Newborns are particularly susceptible to thrush due to their still-developing immune systems, which may not effectively combat the overgrowth of *Candida*.
Conclusion
Recognizing the symptoms of thrush in newborns is crucial for timely intervention. If parents observe white patches in their baby’s mouth, signs of feeding discomfort, or a rash in the diaper area, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician. Early diagnosis and treatment can help alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications, ensuring a smoother feeding experience for both mother and baby.

How do I know if my newborn has thrush?

Signs to look for include: creamy white spots or patches on the tongue, gums, roof of the mouth or insides of the cheeks – if you gently wipe these patches with a clean cloth, they won’t come off. your baby being unsettled when feeding. a white film on the lips.

What is commonly misdiagnosed as thrush?

Several conditions can mimic oral thrush. These include: frictional keratosis: a persistent, usually isolated, low-grade irritation of the oral mucosa. hairy leukoplakia of the tongue: commonly seen in HIV patients.

What can be mistaken for thrush in babies?

While a white tongue is often harmless, it can signal a more serious health condition like oral lichen planus or oral leukoplakia. Other less serious conditions that mimic oral thrush are geographic tongue, canker sores, coated tongue, and “milk tongue.”

Can bottle-fed babies get thrush?

Oral thrush is a common infection in babies, but you can help prevent it: If you formula-feed your baby or use a pacifier, thoroughly clean the nipples and pacifiers in hot water or a dishwasher after each use. That way, if there’s yeast on the bottle nipple or pacifier, your baby won’t be reinfected.

How to clean bottles when baby has thrush?

This must be continued at least 4 days after the thrush is cleared avoid a reoccurrence. Sterilize bottles, nipple, pacifiers and anything baby puts in his/her mouth. Boil them for 20 minutes each day to make sure and kill the yeast that could be on them.

What can be mistaken for thrush?

5 vaginal infections that aren’t thrush (but look or feel like it)

• Herpes. Herpes, a common and extremely contagious STI, causes painful sores on the genitals.
• Trichomoniasis.
• Bacterial vaginosis (BV)
• A sensitivity or allergic reaction.
• Gonorrhoea.
• Whatever your suspicions, get your symptoms checked out.

Can thrush clear up on its own?

You should tell your doctor, nurse or pharmacist if you’re pregnant, might be pregnant, or if you’re breastfeeding. This may affect the type of treatment you’re given. If thrush isn’t treated it eventually goes away on its own.

How to tell the difference between thrush and milk tongue?

If your baby has a faint white color on her tongue, it’s probably just breast milk or formula. But if your baby has thick white patches or a sticky plaque on her tongue, gums, lips, or the inside of her cheeks, then it’s probably thrush, a type of yeast infection. Watch the video to learn more about thrush and.

What does thrush on nipples look like?

Signs of nipple and breast thrush
your nipples may appear bright pink; the areola may be reddened, dry or flaky. Rarely a fine white rash may be seen. nipple damage (e.g. a crack) that is slow to heal. signs of thrush may be present in your baby’s mouth or on your baby’s bottom, or both.

What helps clear up thrush in babies?

The most common treatment for oral thrush is a medicine called Nystatin. It comes in drops and is easy to give. It has a rather bad taste, but most infants can take it without problem. Nystatin works by direct contact, and it is not absorbed very much into the body. It is safe and has very little side effect.