How do I prevent and treat thrush in one month old baby?
NEONATE
Thrush is a common fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida yeast. In a one-month-old baby, it can appear as white patches in the mouth, on the tongue, and sometimes on the lips or around the mouth. Babies can also develop a diaper rash due to Candida. Here are some tips to help prevent and treat thrush in your one-month-old baby:
Prevention:
Maintain good hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly before handling your baby, especially during feedings and diaper changes. This helps prevent the spread of yeast and other infections.
Sterilize items: Regularly sterilize items that come in contact with your baby's mouth, such as pacifiers, bottle nipples, and teething toys.
Clean and air dry nipples: If you're breastfeeding, keep your nipples clean and dry. Change breast pads frequently and allow your nipples to air dry after feedings.
Properly store breast milk: If you're pumping and storing breast milk, follow proper storage guidelines to minimize the risk of contamination.
Treatment:
Consult your pediatrician: If you suspect your baby has thrush, consult your pediatrician. They can confirm the diagnosis and prescribe appropriate antifungal medication, usually in the form of oral drops, for your baby.
Treat both mother and baby: If you're breastfeeding and your baby has thrush, you may need to be treated as well, even if you don't show symptoms. This helps prevent reinfection between you and your baby. Your doctor may prescribe an antifungal cream for your nipples.
Continue breastfeeding: Unless your doctor advises otherwise, continue breastfeeding during treatment. Thrush does not usually interfere with your baby's ability to feed.
Sterilize items daily: While your baby is being treated for thrush, be sure to sterilize all items that come in contact with their mouth daily to help prevent reinfection.
Diaper care: If your baby also has a Candida-related diaper rash, keep the area clean and dry. Your pediatrician may prescribe an antifungal cream to apply to the affected area.
It's essential to follow your pediatrician's advice and complete the full course of treatment for thrush, even if the symptoms appear to improve before the medication is finished. If your baby's thrush does not improve or worsens, contact your pediatrician for further evaluation and guidance.