How to treat thrush?

Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
Updated on September 09, 2024
00:00
00:00

Thrush is caused by an infection of the oral mucosa with Candida albicans, so the treatment focuses on addressing this cause. It is advisable to wash the oral cavity with 2% baking soda water, 3-4 times a day, which generally leads to recovery. If the effect is still not satisfactory, nystatin can be added, dissolved in 2% baking soda water for oral application. Of course, thrush infections are very prone to recurrence. The most important factor causing recurrence is hygiene. Therefore, all items such as bottles, cups, and spoons that come into contact with the baby's mouth should be boiled and sterilized after each use. If breastfeeding, the mother's breasts and nipples should be cleaned with 2% baking soda before and after feeding to avoid recurrence. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)

Other Voices

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
1min 16sec home-news-image

Can thrush heal by itself?

Thrush is generally caused by a fungal infection due to an imbalance in the microbial flora, primarily involving the formation of a white plaque membrane by Candida albicans on the surface of the oral mucosa. It is mainly seen in individuals with lowered immunity, such as those with long-term malnutrition, repeated use of antibiotics, diarrhea, or the use of certain medications like corticosteroids. Additionally, unsanitary conditions during breastfeeding, fungal contamination on the mother's nipples, or fungal infection from nursing equipment can also lead to thrush. Typically, thrush does not require special antimicrobial medication. If the baby's immunity improves and their intestinal flora are properly established, thrush can heal spontaneously. It is generally recommended to orally take some probiotics and enhance oral care, which can include cleaning the oral cavity with 2% sodium bicarbonate before and after breastfeeding, or locally applying antifungal agents to suppress the fungal growth in the mouth.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
39sec home-news-image

What is thrush?

Thrush is a fungal infection that commonly occurs in infants and young children, especially those with weakened immunity due to prolonged use of immunosuppressants or steroids. It is caused by the infection of oral mucous membranes by Candida albicans. Commonly affected areas include the oral cavity, mucous membranes, gums, and tongue. It appears as white patches on the mucosa that generally cannot be wiped off with a cotton swab. Forceful wiping may lead to bleeding. Treatment mainly involves topical medication, a light diet, and maintaining good oral hygiene, which is very important.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
47sec home-news-image

Does thrush need treatment?

Oral thrush is a white Candida infection of the oral mucosa, which certainly requires timely treatment. Firstly, oral thrush causes discomfort in the mouth; secondly, if left untreated for an extended period, it may also spread to the pharyngeal area. Thirdly, recurrent episodes of oral thrush can lead to decreased immunity and may facilitate subsequent infections. Therefore, active treatment is necessary. Treatment primarily involves using 2% baking soda solution to rinse the mouth. In severe cases, adding nystatin for oral rinsing might be required. Of course, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial, and all tools that come into contact with the mouth must be thoroughly disinfected.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Yao Li Qin
Pediatrics
54sec home-news-image

What medicine is used for thrush?

Thrush is caused by an infection with Candida albicans, commonly appearing as a white, membrane-like layer in the mouths of infants that is difficult to wipe off. In such cases, it is important to administer medication promptly. Typically, this involves alternately applying a solution of sodium bicarbonate and an antifungal suspension. Additionally, all items that enter the mouth must be sterilized at high temperatures. With the aforementioned treatment, thrush can generally be well-controlled. If a child is on long-term antibiotics or corticosteroids, preventive application of sodium bicarbonate should be considered. For some newborns, it may be necessary to use antifungals to prevent the occurrence of thrush. (Note: Medication should be administered under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
44sec home-news-image

Is oral thrush contagious?

Oral thrush is an infection caused by Candida albicans due to certain specific conditions, such as a weakened immune system or long-term malnutrition, prolonged use of broad-spectrum antibiotics or corticosteroid hormones, and dysbiosis in the intestinal flora. It primarily manifests as white patches on the oral mucosa. During breastfeeding, if Candida contaminates the nipples or nursing equipment, it can also lead to oral thrush. Generally, oral thrush is not highly contagious. It is recommended to maintain good hygiene and proper oral care. Generally, breastfeeding is not significantly affected under normal circumstances.