Baby yeast infection usually appears in the mouth. However, just like adults, babies can also suffer from yeast infection in other parts of the body. Although oral yeast infection is the most common form of Candidiasis in newborn infants, there are other ways by which this condition can affect babies.
Thrush in infants
When babies have thrush or oral Candidiasis; white, curd-like deposits will appear on the tongue and the insides of the mouth. This could be accompanied by soreness and inflammation and can affect how babies are fed. Having oral thrush will likely have its toll on an infant's overall health.
Diaper rash
Diaper rash is different from diaper Candidiasis. Both can be utterly uncomfortable, but there are slight differences in the symptoms. A rash caused by yeast infection can appear as red bumps with heights surrounded by smaller red spots. Diaper yeast infection usually appears on the upper thighs, the pubic area and the lower part of the baby's abdomen.
Causes of infant Candidiasis
Babies can get yeast infection from infected mothers, particularly those who are being breastfed. Women who have the infection can pass it on to their babies, especially if they are breastfeeding. The symptoms can manifest on the mother's areola and around the nipples.
If an infant has to take antibiotics for some sort of condition, then his or her immune system can be affected. This could lead to the baby being prone to developing Candidiasis. Warm weather can also contribute to the development of the condition. Humidity can trap sweat on the baby's skin, especially in areas of the body that are wrapped in clothing. That is why the diaper area is where symptoms are usually found. For oral Candida infection, using unclean feeding bottles and pacifiers can lead to the development of yeast infection.
Natural treatment for infant yeast infection
For babies, treating the infection with a mild, natural cure is still best. Infants do not have the same tolerance as adults when it comes to medications; that is why a natural cure will be a better option. One way of treating yeast infection without causing more discomfort on the baby is tea tree oil. This can be swabbed on the areas where symptoms appear.
Apple cider vinegar can also be used on baby rash. When used to treat thrush, it is best to dilute it with water and swab the tongue and insides of the baby's mouth with it using cotton. Crushed garlic applied on affected areas is also an effective natural cure.
Baby yeast infection is quite common. However, choosing the right cure is very important because infants are more sensitive to medications than adults and treating the infection with a natural cure is probably the best option.
