About Baby Yeast Infection

Baby thrush is yet another name for baby yeast infection. It is a kind of yeast infection caused by bacteria building up in the child’s mouth and private areas. It manifests itself on new born babies as well as older infants. While baby yeast infection is not particularly life threatening, it does make the baby very uncomfortable.

Since baby yeast infection does not have symptoms, it is not easy to know when the baby is suffering from it. Nonetheless, paying close attention to the baby’s behavior is an easy way of knowing if the baby is suffering from thrush. Often times, babies suffering from thrush are angry, grumpy and frustrated especially during feeding time. Thrush clinical presents itself as gray or white patches that are lacy and curd-like on the baby’s tongue and mouth. An infected child does not retain a pacifier in his/her mouth but instead spits it out.

Antibiotics cause baby yeast infection. Antibiotics are notorious for weakening babies’ immune systems thus causing candida, the yeast causing bacteria to grow. A mother can transmit the infection to her child. Infected mothers are likely to transmit infection to the child in the course of breastfeeding. It is possible for the infected mother to pass infection onto her baby during breast feeding. Accordingly, parents are directed to ensure that at all times, infant pacifiers and bottlers are well cleaned. Warm and damp weather also allow the bacteria to grow.

In the initial stages, baby yeast infection is regarded as harmless. Nonetheless, it has grave side effects for example malnutrition and dehydration. Additional side effects include difficulty in swallowing and suckling plus discomfort. In advanced stages, the thrush may spread through the baby’s gastro-intestinal system resulting in diaper rush.

Sterilizing such infant equipment as bottles and pacifiers is the best method of dealing with baby yeast infection. Because the yeast causing bacteria is known to thrive in moist environments, keeping the equipment dry also comes highly recommended. It is crucial that the infant’s diapers are changed immediately they are soiled. What is more, clean the child’s private parts and make sure they stay dry. Prior to placing the diapers, always allow the child’s bottom to air-dry for a short while. Ensure that the diapers are not too tight. This puts a stop to the bacteria’s growth. You ought to consult a pediatrician if the thrush persists. He or she is able to treat the thrush by administering the correct drugs.

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