Oral thrush

Causes

Thrush can occur in the throat, tongue and lining of the mouth.

Oral thrush is caused by the fungus Candida albicans. We’ve all got this fungus in our bodies, and it normally lives in balance with other organisms. But if the balance of organisms in the body is upset, thrush organisms can multiply and produce an infection. This process might happen as a result of antibiotic treatment, which destroys normal bacteria in the bowel, and affects the balance of organisms.

Your baby might also develop oral thrush if he sucks on objects already infected with thrush, such as nipples, teats or dummies.

Thrush can also be picked up when a baby passes through her mother’s vagina during birth.

Children with a weak immune system are more likely to get thrush infections. But if your baby has thrush, it doesn’t necessarily mean he has a weak immune system.

If your child uses inhaled steroids, such as those used for asthma, she’s more likely to develop oral thrush. 

Symptoms

You might notice that your child has white patches on the inside of his cheeks, and on his lips and tongue. These patches can’t be wiped away easily, and will often leave behind red, inflamed areas when you remove them. 

Your baby or young child doesn’t usually know he has thrush, because it generally doesn’t cause irritation. But if the areas get really red and angry, it might cause irritation – in this case, your child might be reluctant to feed or eat.

When to see your doctor

You should see your doctor if:

• you see white patches on the inside of your child’s mouth
• your child is generally unwell or has a fever for no apparent reason
• your child suffers from thrush infections that keep coming back, even though you’re using treatment recommended by a health professional.

Treatment

Your doctor will probably prescribe special antifungal drops or an oral gel, which you use after each feed or meal for 10 days.

Sometimes oral thrush goes along with thrush in the nappy area, which will need treatment at the same time.

You can still breastfeed if your child has oral thrush. Your doctor might advise you to apply some antifungal cream to your nipples as well, but remember to wash this off before feeding.

Prevention

Sterilise teats and bottles after each use to prevent recurrent thrush.

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