What percentage of babies get thrush?

Understanding Thrush in Babies
Thrush, a common fungal infection caused by the overgrowth of the Candida species, particularly *Candida albicans*, is notably prevalent among infants. This condition manifests as creamy white lesions in the mouth, often affecting the tongue and inner cheeks. While thrush can occur in individuals of all ages, it is particularly frequent in babies due to their developing immune systems and the environment of their mouths.
Prevalence of Thrush in Infants
Research indicates that approximately 5% to 10% of infants will experience thrush at some point during their early months. This statistic highlights the condition’s commonality, especially in newborns and young children. Factors contributing to this prevalence include the use of antibiotics, which can disrupt the natural balance of microorganisms in the mouth, and the presence of certain conditions like diabetes or immune deficiencies that may predispose infants to fungal infections.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Parents should be vigilant for symptoms of thrush, which include white patches in the mouth that may resemble milk curds, discomfort during feeding, and irritability in the infant. Diagnosis is typically straightforward, often made through a physical examination by a pediatrician.
Treatment and Management
Fortunately, thrush is generally easy to treat. Antifungal medications, such as nystatin or fluconazole, are commonly prescribed and can effectively clear the infection. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene and sterilizing feeding equipment can help prevent recurrence.
Conclusion
In summary, while thrush is a common condition affecting 5% to 10% of infants, it is manageable with appropriate treatment and care. Awareness of the symptoms and prompt medical consultation can ensure that infants receive the necessary care to recover swiftly from this fungal infection.

How to tell if it’s thrush or milk tongue?

After washing and drying your hands, dampen a clean piece of gauze with lukewarm water. Wrap it around your finger and gently wipe your child’s tongue. If the residue comes off easily, your child likely has milk tongue and not thrush.

What is the number one cause of oral thrush?

Weakened immunity.
Oral thrush is more likely in babies and older adults due to lower immunity. Some medical conditions and treatments can weaken your immune system. They include cancer and its treatments, an organ transplant, medicines that weaken the immune system, and HIV / AIDS .

What is the biggest cause of thrush?

What causes thrush. Thrush is not classed as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but it can be triggered by sex or, less often, passed on during sex. Thrush is caused by a fungus called candida that is normally harmless. Thrush tends to grow in warm, moist conditions and develops if the balance of bacteria changes.

Is it better to spit or swallow Nystatin?

Put the medicine in your mouth. Keep it in your mouth for at least 30 seconds if possible, swilling it around your mouth like a mouthwash before you swallow it. Do not eat or drink anything for 30 minutes after taking it. This stops you washing the medicine out of your mouth too soon.

What is the likelihood of getting thrush?

Vaginal thrush is a common yeast infection caused by an overgrowth of the yeast candida albicans. This yeast lives naturally in the bowel and in small numbers in the vagina. It’s mostly harmless, but symptoms can develop if yeast numbers increase. About 75% of women will have vaginal thrush in their lifetime.

Is oral thrush common in babies?

About 1 in every 7 babies develop oral thrush at some point. It is more common in babies younger than 10 weeks, but older babies can also get it. Oral thrush is not usually due to poor hygiene and it does not usually mean that your baby is ill in any other way.

How easy is it to catch thrush?

In most cases, thrush isn’t particularly contagious (meaning, it doesn’t spread from person to person), but it is transmittable (meaning, you can catch it in other ways). If you’re worried about getting thrush from another person who has it, avoid coming into contact with their saliva (spit).

How common is thrush in breastfed babies?

Because it’s relatively common for new birthing parents and newborn babies to need antibiotics, thrush is also common. Anything else that depresses the immune system—diabetes, chemotherapy, even a common cold—can result in an overgrowth of yeast.

Is it better to spit or swallow nystatin?

Put the medicine in your mouth. Keep it in your mouth for at least 30 seconds if possible, swilling it around your mouth like a mouthwash before you swallow it. Do not eat or drink anything for 30 minutes after taking it. This stops you washing the medicine out of your mouth too soon.

How do I make sure my baby doesn’t get thrush?

Prevention

1. If you bottle feed your baby, clean and sterilize all equipment, including nipples.
2. Clean and sterilize pacifiers and other toys that go in your baby’s mouth.
3. Change diapers often to help prevent yeast from causing diaper rash.
4. Be sure to treat your nipples if you have a yeast infection.