Thrush

Thrush is a fungus infection caused by candida albicans. It is found in the mouth or the diaper area in babies.

Who can get Thrush?

• Babies under 6 months of age
• People who have AIDS other immune problems or people taking chemo drugs

What can increase the chance of getting Thrush?

• Taking antibiotics
• Eating too many sweet foods and too many dairy products
• Drinking alcoholic beverages
• Allergies
• Stress
• Long term steroid use (like in asthma)
• Diabetes

Home Treatment:

• Try not to eat as many sugary foods
• Eat yogurt that has acidopholus in it
• Wash all toys, soothers, rubber nipples, and breast pump supplies in boiling water for 20 min every day if used
• Wash your hands frequently

Breastfeeding and Thrush

A secondary yeast infection may be found in the milk ducts or areas of the breast around the milk ducts. This can cause breast pain during or between feedings. Mothers who have been taking antibiotics, or have cracked nipples, have a higher chance of getting a secondary infection. Also, babies who are taking antibiotics or use a soother are at a higher risk of getting thrush.

Treatment:

Both you and your baby will need to be treated, even if one of you do not have any symptoms.

• Change breast pads after every feeding.
• Any milk that you express should be thrown out if it was expressed when you or your baby were infected

For painful nipples: Your symptoms may seem worse for the first day or two before they get better.

• Wash your nipples off with clear water and let them dry in the air. Make the feedings short, but more often.
• Nurse your baby on the side that hurts the least.
• Break the baby's suction by carefully pulling on your baby's chin or by pulling on the corner of their mouth.
• Consult your physician for possible treatment with medications