Dr C Sai Narasimha Reddy, Consultant Paediatrician & Neonatologist at Gleneagles BGS Hospital, shares insights into the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of oral thrush in babies.
What Causes Oral Thrush in Babies?
Several factors can allow Candida to multiply in a baby's mouth and cause oral thrush. These include:- Developing immunity: A newborn's immune system is still developing, which can allow Candida to grow more easily
- Antibiotic use: Antibiotics taken by the baby or breastfeeding mother can change the natural balance of microorganisms, allowing Candida to multiply
- During birth: A baby may come into contact with Candida during birth if the mother has a vaginal yeast infection
- Feeding items: Poorly cleaned bottles, nipples, and pacifiers may allow Candida to remain on their surfaces and contribute to its spread
What Are the Symptoms of Oral Thrush?
Oral thrush is a common fungal infection of the mouth that can cause several uncomfortable symptoms. Common signs include the following:- White patches: Creamy or white patches may appear on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, palate, or tonsils
- Reddish or soreness: The affected areas may become red, irritated, or painful
- Bleeding: White patches may bleed slightly if scraped or rubbed
- Burning sensation: Some people experience burning or discomfort in the mouth
- Dry or cotton-like feeling: The mouth may feel unusually dry or coated
- Altered taste: Food may taste different, unpleasant, or less flavourful
- Cracked corners: Redness or painful cracks may develop at the corners of the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing: More severe infections can cause discomfort or difficulty when swallowing
Oral thrush is common in infants and usually improves with appropriate treatment, good feeding hygiene, regular handwashing, and care of both mother and baby.
How is Oral Thrush Diagnosed?
A paediatrician is likely to diagnose oral thrush by inspecting the baby's mouth along with feeding habits and signs of the condition. Parents should consult their doctor if the white patches do not go away within two weeks or if feeding remains painful. As per Dr C. Sai Narasimha Reddy, timely diagnosis can help to choose appropriate treatment options.How is Oral Thrush Treated?
Treatment depends on the baby's age, symptoms, and the doctor's assessment. The following steps are commonly used as part of managing oral thrush.Antifungal Medicine
The paediatrician may prescribe an antifungal gel or liquid drops for the baby's mouth. These medicines work against Candida and help clear the infection. Parents should apply the medicine exactly as prescribed. The medicine may need to be used for one or two weeks, depending on the doctor's recommendation. It is important to follow the complete treatment plan even when the white patches start improving.Treatment for the Breastfeeding Mother
If the baby is breastfed and the mother develops sore or itchy nipples, she should speak to her doctor. The mother may also need treatment. Treating both the baby and mother when advised can help prevent the infection from passing between them during breastfeeding. This can support a smoother recovery for both.Continue Feeding as Advised
Parents can discuss feeding with the paediatrician if the baby becomes uncomfortable while feeding. Babies who pull away from the breast or bottle may need additional support to maintain their usual feeding pattern. Do not scrape the white patches or give home remedies or antifungal medicines without medical advice. The doctor can guide parents based on the baby's age, feeding needs, and symptoms.How Can Parents Prevent Oral Thrush?
Regular practice of personal hygiene can help prevent the infection from recurring. The parents should do the following:- Wash hands frequently using soap and water, particularly before feeding the baby and before touching them
- Sterilise feeding utensils and bottles often
- Clean and sterilise pacifiers in accordance with the recommendations
- Wash feeding utensils well after use
- Clean breast pump parts properly
- Consult a doctor in case of any nipple problems while breastfeeding
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FAQs on Oral Thrush in Babies: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
- Can oral thrush transfer to other members at home?
Yes, oral thrush can sometimes spread between people at home through close contact, but it is not highly contagious. Good oral hygiene and avoiding shared utensils can help reduce transmission. - Can a baby get oral thrush repeatedly?
Yes, babies can develop oral thrush repeatedly. Recurrence may occur due to immature immune systems, use of antibiotics, breastfeeding-related transmission, or other factors. Persistent and frequent episodes should be evaluated by a paediatrician. - How can I tell if it's oral thrush patches or just milk in their mouth?
Milk usually wipes away easily from the tongue, while thrush causes creamy white patches that stick firmly and may leave red, sore areas underneath. Thrush often appears on the cheeks, gums, or palate too.