How to completely eradicate recurrent thrush?

Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
Updated on September 29, 2024
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Thrush is inherently prone to recurrence, and the difficulty in eradication is primarily due to poor hygiene, so figuring out how to effectively treat it is crucial. Firstly, active treatment should be implemented. The mouth should be rinsed with 2% baking soda solution at least four times a day. In severe cases, an antifungal agent can be added to the 2% baking soda solution for mouth rinsing. This is the primary step. Secondly, proper hygiene must be maintained. In principle, all items that come into contact with the baby's mouth, including pacifiers and bottles, need to be disinfected promptly. Of course, if breastfeeding, the cleanliness of the nipples and breasts is also very important.

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Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
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Can thrush be wiped off?

Oral thrush is caused by an infection of Candida albicans, typically forming white plaques on the surface of the oral mucous membrane. These plaques generally appear as small, curd-like spots or dot-like patches that can merge into a large area and are difficult to wipe off. If forcibly removed, the underlying oral mucosa may become reddened, rough, and even bleed. Therefore, one should not attempt to wipe it off and instead should seek proper treatment. The usual treatment involves the local application of 2% baking soda solution. This type of oral thrush generally does not affect a child's appetite or quality of life.

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

How to completely eradicate recurrent thrush?

Thrush is inherently prone to recurrence, and the difficulty in eradication is primarily due to poor hygiene, so figuring out how to effectively treat it is crucial. Firstly, active treatment should be implemented. The mouth should be rinsed with 2% baking soda solution at least four times a day. In severe cases, an antifungal agent can be added to the 2% baking soda solution for mouth rinsing. This is the primary step. Secondly, proper hygiene must be maintained. In principle, all items that come into contact with the baby's mouth, including pacifiers and bottles, need to be disinfected promptly. Of course, if breastfeeding, the cleanliness of the nipples and breasts is also very important.

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Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
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What to do if the baby has thrush?

Oral thrush is caused by the parasitic proliferation of Candida albicans in the mucous membrane of the mouth. It is a secondary infection typically seen in individuals with weakened immune systems or those who have been using antibiotics for an extended period. In such cases, initially, one can use a 2.5% sodium bicarbonate solution to rinse the mouth, specifically targeting the areas affected by thrush. After meals, crush nystatin tablets and apply the powder to the areas with thrush, using this method three times a day. Additionally, taking probiotics orally, such as Bifidobacteria, can aid in treatment. Generally, these measures can control the condition within 3 to 5 days.

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Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
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How is thrush treated?

Thrush is a mucosal lesion in the mouth caused by an infection with Candida albicans, commonly seen in infants and young children, especially those with compromised immune systems, such as those using steroids or immunosuppressants. The main approach to treatment is symptomatic and supportive, primarily involving topical application of medications. Dietary management is also crucial, typically involving the provision of bland, non-irritating foods. The use of sugary, greasy foods should be avoided to prevent exacerbating the symptoms. Of course, another important aspect of treatment is preventing reinfection by maintaining good hygiene, especially with food. All items that come into contact with the child's mouth, including pacifiers, bottles, and spoons, should be sterilized after each use. If breastfeeding, the cleanliness of the mother's nipples and breasts is also very important. (Specific medication use should be conducted under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Zhang Ai Min
Pediatrics
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How to treat thrush?

Thrush is a fungal infection, so its treatment is relatively simple. Generally, the approach involves maintaining an alkaline environment in the affected area, such as using 2% baking soda solution to cleanse and apply to the mouth. This 2% baking soda solution is made by diluting the 5% baking soda solution commonly available in pharmacies or hospitals by half, resulting in a 2%-2.5% solution. This can be used to rinse the mouth three to four times a day. After three to four days of cleaning, if there is no improvement, antifungal tablets such as miconazole or fluconazole dissolved in water can be applied to the affected area, typically yielding very good treatment outcomes. If there is no improvement after applying the baking soda solution and the antifungal solution, oral antifungal medication may be considered. In addition to these treatments, I believe prevention is most important. Preventing fungal infections involves maintaining cleanliness of the mouth and hands, ensuring the cleanliness of items such as baby bottles, pacifiers, and spoons, especially ensuring that adults' hands are free of fungal presence.