Oral thrush in babies

Dear D,

Oral candidiasis or thrush is common in babies. It is caused by the same yeast that causes nappy rash. It looks like little white plaques inside the mouth which tend to not scrape off. The most common cause of thrush in babies is the yeast, Candida albicans although other species of yeast may cause it. Candida is present in small amounts on the skin and membranes of us all, but only causes problems if it overgrows. This can happen in babies and old people because their immune systems aren?t on top form. It can also be a complication of diabetes or antibiotic treatment in people of all ages. Thrush may occur in older children and adults who are immunosuppressed due to drugs used in medical treatment or infections. Oral thrush is treated with prescription antifungal medicine, given either as oral drops, an oral gel or a lozenge to suck.

Dr Chris Brown

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