Almost every second newborn baby can be infected with a fungus. Most often, thrush on the bottom of a baby appears before the age of six months. Thrush (candidiasis) is caused by the multiplication of Candida fungi on the mucous membranes of the mouth and genitals. It affects the child's body, since it is not yet able to overcome various infections.

Children whose mothers suffered from genital candidiasis are more likely to get infected.

Causes of thrush on the pope in infants

• decreased immunity;
• diaper rash;
• excessive humidity in the room;
• tight clothing;
• food allergy;
• long-term use of antibiotics;
• poor hygiene.

How does it appear?

Diaper rash is a favorable place for the localization and growth of the fungus.

Thrush in newborns appears in those places where there were diaper rash, as this is the most favorable environment for the reproduction of the fungus. Therefore, it usually affects the skin on the groin folds, the lower abdomen and perineum, and the skin near the anus - the place where the body touches wet diapers, clothes, and diapers. In boys, the penis and scrotum are affected, and in girls, the labia and vagina. Still often such thrush is called "diaper".

Symptoms of manifestation

1. Redness of the skin and the appearance of small pimples and blisters.
2. Accumulation of white discharge with a sour odor.
3. Formation of red erosion with a moist surface and clear outlines.
4. The appearance of small erosions with fresh abscesses and blisters around the large ones.

After reddening of the skin on the priest, in places of diaper rash, small watery pimples appear, which, when combined, form foci (erosion) of a red color, all this is accompanied by peeling of the skin and pronounced itching. Small erosions with the same watery bubbles appear around these foci.

Treatment and prevention

The baby's recovery depends not only on medication.

First of all, the treatment is prescribed by the doctor. There is no need to self-medicate, because an incorrectly selected drug can only aggravate the child's condition. Candidiasis on the pope is treated with local antifungal ointments. The result is visible within 7-10 days. Effective treatment depends to a large extent on proper hygiene. Try to leave your baby without diapers and pants more often so that the body breathes as much air as possible. Choose clothes made from natural fabrics for your baby and avoid excessive exposure to wet diapers or clothes to prevent diaper rash.

Thrush in infants is one of the first ailments that a newly born child can face. According to medical terminology, the disease refers to stomatitis (inflammation of the oral cavity) caused by a fungal infection.

Causative agent

How is it transmitted

An almost sterile baby at the time of birth receives from the mother, as well as in contact with various subjects and environments a whole set of diverse microflora. Let us consider the most frequently recorded routes of transmission of mycosis to a newborn. This:

• birth canals of the mother carrier of the fungus;
• arms medical staff or family members caring for the baby;
• free access of pets to communication;
• poorly processed baby care items (linen, bottles, pacifiers and nipples, toys).

A special role in the infection process is played by:

• not proper care mothers behind the breast (inaccuracies in maintaining personal hygiene);
• shortcomings in the prevention of regurgitation and mouth treatment after them;
• violations of the drinking regime and storage of boiled water;
• non-observance of the storage terms of expressed milk;
• untimely wet cleaning and airing of the room where the baby is constantly located;
• uncontrolled intake of antibiotics or hormonal drugs by a nursing woman (self-medication).

Causes of occurrence

In addition to external factors of transmission of infection, there are internal reasons provoking candidiasis in the mouth. This is largely due to the state of health of both the baby and the mother. They can be:

• diabetes;
• reduced immunity;
• tuberculosis, oncology or immunodeficiency;
• gastrointestinal diseases;
• postoperative period;
• allergy.

The main symptoms

In infants, the first signs of thrush can be seen with the naked eye. You should carefully look at the tongue, the mucous membrane of the lips and the inner surface of the cheeks. The manifestations before feeding are especially clearly visible, when the child opens his mouth or cries.

Forms of the disease:

Doctors distinguish between three forms of the course of thrush in children of the first year of life, which can have an acute and chronic course.

1. Lightweight. Initially, it is manifested by hyperemia, itching and swelling of the mucous membranes of the pharynx and gums. A small white coating appears on the tongue, resembling milk residues. It cannot be removed by simple wiping. The baby is restless and irritable, does not sleep well, experiences soreness and therefore refuses to breast or nipple.

The baby spits up almost every feeding with a fountain. If you do not begin to eliminate the cause of the disease as quickly as possible, then a small focal rash in the form of red spots and bright white grains will form in the mouth throughout the mouth.

1. Average. First of all, the deterioration of the general condition of the child is noticeable. The child may have a subfebrile body temperature (up to 38 degrees). When examining the submandibular lymph nodes, their increase is noted.

It becomes more and more difficult to calm down loud crying. It is completely impossible to organize normal feeding due to the sharp pain. Added to everything else is the fusion of fine-grained eruptions into formations that resemble granulated cottage cheese, not only in outward appearance, but also a sour smell. Such plaque cannot be removed with a spatula or cotton swab. When pressing on the plaques, a crack is visible from which blood oozes.

Erosion is clearly visible on the tongue, cheeks and lips. Painful cheilitis (seizures) in the corners of the mouth. Tongue yellowish gray.

1. Heavy. It occurs quite rarely. Basically, when the parents do not notice or do not want to see the problem. The action of the fungi spreads to the pharyngeal area. It can develop with elements of microbial infection (pus).

The mucous membranes are literally completely covered with a dense grayish-yellowish film, in cracks, they bleed. The high temperature does not go away for a number of days. Symptoms in the baby are accompanied by weakness, lack of appetite, sagging skin, sometimes diarrhea.

Immediate therapeutic measures will help you get rid of mild to moderate forms within 7-14 days without leaving your home. The success of the case depends on strict adherence to all prescriptions given by the pediatrician.

The worst thing is when the thrush has already passed into the last third stage, which, most likely, will result in a chronic form and will accompany the child all his life with alternating relapses and remissions. It is possible that mycosis will affect internal organs... The disease will have to be treated in a hospital setting several times.

Another nuisance can be thrush on the priest, or, to put it correctly, on the mucous membrane of the anal sphincter (or rectum) in babies. The symptomatology is the same - itching, burning, swelling and redness not only of the mucous membranes, but also of the skin around, curdled sour discharge. This is due to the late change of the diaper and improper care.

Important! You cannot do without the help of a specialist doctor in the treatment of the disease. At the first symptoms, call the pediatrician at home. The sooner adequate treatment of acute thrush begins in infants, the less harm the fungus will have time to inflict on health.

Diagnostics

Even with all the symptoms, you cannot be completely sure of the correct diagnosis. It is imperative to find out where the source of infection is. Therefore, for confirmation you need laboratory research:

• general blood and urine tests, blood glucose;
• swab from the throat or mucous membranes of the anus for inoculation on a nutrient medium.

Research is needed to determine the amount, strain of the fungus, and the full range of antimycotics that can be used for treatment.

Basic principles of treatment

Only a doctor can answer the question of how to treat the hated thrush in infants. For the treatment of children under one year old, he must apply an integrated approach, so as not to allow the disease to drag on.

Antifungal, immunostimulating and supportive therapy is of high priority. At the same time, we must not forget about the daily prevention of thrush at mommy.

To eradicate candida in children younger age literally in the first hours, doctors advise paying attention to an inexpensive, long-known and well-proven drug for topical use - borax in glycerin.

This medicine is sold in pharmacies without a prescription in a dark 30 ml bottle. The salt of boric acid and glycerin contained in an aqueous solution in a certain proportion effectively destroys a variety of mycotic cells, heals and disinfects the oral cavity of an infant. The product is approved for the treatment of nipples during nursing, as it is non-toxic and has no contraindications. The solution burns a little, which indicates its effectiveness.

Before processing, cut a square piece of a wide bandage (it can be non-sterile), fold it 2-3 times to make a smaller square. Insert your index finger into the wider part. Open the bottle and pour a portion of the liquid onto the bandage. With gentle light movements, spread the borax over the entire surface of your child's mouth, grasping the palate, cheeks, gums, tongue and lips.

Repeat this procedure five to six times during the day, one hour before or 30-40 minutes after feeding. The course of treatment is on average 5-7 days.

The second most popular treatment for fungus in babies is soda solution (2%). Its use is advisable in a mild form of fungal stomatitis. The principle of action is the same as with the borax. You will have to cook it yourself, but there is no difficulty. One fourth of a teaspoon baking soda dissolve in 100 ml of boiled water at room temperature. To consolidate the effect after soda, it is permissible to treat the mouth with 3% hydrogen peroxide with a new napkin. Manipulation is carried out at intervals of up to 6 times a day after feeding.

Medium and severe forms of thrush require the use of special antifungal drugs. Among them, the following have proven themselves well:

• Nystatin. For very young children, it is used as a suspension prepared at the rate of 1 tablet per 0.5 cups of boiled water. Powder the tablet and stir in water. With this liquid with crystals, wipe the affected area with a gauze pad or a blunt end of a teaspoon wrapped in gauze until it recovers before each meal.
• Clotrimazole. It is part of the effective Candide gel. It goes well with the anesthetic drugs "Kamistad", "Kalgel". In the case of candidiasis associated with the anus or intestines, it is prescribed by a doctor, taking into account age and weight.
• ... Specially designed for children. It is guaranteed to cure thrush in 1-2 doses, but in a complicated situation it will take at least 21 days. The daily dose is individually calculated by the pediatrician, taking into account weight and age.
• Fluconazole. For children, it is used both topically (externally) and in tablet form. Treatment cream is used 1-2 times a day, spread in a thin layer; inside, the drug is taken only after being prescribed by a doctor. The duration of therapy is from one to three weeks.
• ... Suitable for all categories of patients in the form of tablets, ointments and suppositories. Before use, consult a doctor and follow the instructions.

Folk remedies

All kinds of infusions and decoctions of medicinal herbs can help in the prevention of allergic reactions, improve immunity, wound healing and anti-inflammatory measures.

Keep in mind that for babies, these funds are used with great care - mainly only as baths for bathing and only in diluted form.

Infusion of chamomile and string

Take 1 glass of water for 1 tablespoon of each herb. We put dry food in a clean liter or 0.75 l. jar and pour boiling water over it. Close the lid tightly and wrap the jar in a towel or blanket for 35-40 minutes. We filter the infusion, cool it down. We use it freshly prepared for bathing and washing.

Prophylaxis

The main measures are aimed at maintaining personal hygiene by adults and proper care for the baby:

• cleanliness of the home, timely wet cleaning, ventilation, dust removal, exclusion of contact with pets up to a certain age;
• hygiene of the mother's oral cavity, timely medical examination and referral to specialists;
• storage of personal items of the child (pacifiers, nipples, bottles, napkins, towels and linen) in a specially designated place, closed and clean;
• rational, nutritious food.

Almost every second newborn baby can be infected with a fungus. Most often, thrush on the bottom of a baby appears before the age of six months. Thrush (candidiasis) is caused by the multiplication of Candida fungi on the mucous membranes of the mouth and genitals. It affects the child's body, since it is not yet able to overcome various infections.

Children whose mothers suffered from genital candidiasis are more likely to get infected.

• decreased immunity;
• diaper rash;
• excessive humidity in the room;
• tight clothing;
• food allergy;
• long-term use of antibiotics;
• poor hygiene.

Back to the table of contents

How does it appear?

Diaper rash is a favorable place for the localization and growth of the fungus.

Thrush in newborns appears in those places where there were diaper rash, as this is the most favorable environment for the reproduction of the fungus. Therefore, it usually affects the skin on the groin folds, the lower abdomen and perineum, and the skin near the anus - the place where the body touches wet diapers, clothes, and diapers. In boys, the penis and scrotum are affected, and in girls, the labia and vagina. Still often such thrush is called "diaper".

Back to the table of contents

Symptoms of manifestation

1. Redness of the skin and the appearance of small pimples and blisters.
2. Accumulation of white discharge with a sour odor.
3. Formation of red erosion with a moist surface and clear outlines.
4. The appearance of small erosions with fresh abscesses and blisters around the large ones.

After reddening of the skin on the priest, in places of diaper rash, small watery pimples appear, which, when combined, form foci (erosion) of a red color, all this is accompanied by peeling of the skin and pronounced itching. Small erosions with the same watery bubbles appear around these foci.

Back to the table of contents

Treatment and prevention

The baby's recovery depends not only on medication.

First of all, the treatment is prescribed by the doctor. There is no need to self-medicate, because an incorrectly selected drug can only aggravate the child's condition. Candidiasis on the pope is treated with local antifungal ointments. The result is visible within 7-10 days. Effective treatment depends to a large extent on proper hygiene. Try to leave your baby without diapers and pants more often so that the body breathes as much air as possible. Choose clothes made from natural fabrics for your baby and avoid excessive exposure to wet diapers or clothes to prevent diaper rash.

If the treatment with ointments does not help, then the doctor prescribes general-action drugs, which are treated for three to five days.

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Prevention methods

• treatment of dysbiosis using B vitamins and trace elements (iron, calcium, phosphorus);
• maintaining proper hygiene of the baby.

In order to prevent the appearance of such an unpleasant ailment as thrush on the child's bottom, you need to properly monitor the child's hygiene, as well as the intake of his body. nutrients... After all, he appears very quickly, and for the treatment you need to make a lot of effort and patience. Thrush in children in most cases is treated quickly, if you follow all the recommendations.

Most new moms confuse thrush with babies with regurgitation after feeding. It is not surprising, because its external manifestations are often very similar to the slightly curdled discharge of mother's milk after feeding. Is it possible to distinguish this disease from the natural disposal of the baby from excess air by regurgitation? What kind of ailment is this? Is the disease a danger to the child? How to deal with thrush in children? All these questions will now be dealt with together.

Inexperienced mothers are often called the thrush of regurgitation after feeding.

Why does thrush occur?

The term "milkmaid" originated from the people. People called this ailment that way because of its characteristic feature - a whitish coating. The scientific name of the disease is candidiasis... The fungus of the genus "Candida" provokes thrush. These fungi are present everywhere: in the air, on food, on various objects, even in the body of each person, but in relatively small quantities and this is normal, because the body suppresses their active reproduction using special protective mechanisms at the cellular level. Why, then, does some have thrush, while others do not?

The reasons can be varied: from banal dysbiosis to serious hormonal changes, but the most basic is lowered immunity. It is the decrease or absence in early infancy protective functions organism allows fungi to multiply at a tremendous speed. The result of their rapid growth is an inflammatory process that delivers a whole range of unpleasant sensations to every person, regardless of age.

Low immunity of the baby can be the cause of the disease.

Thrush in children under one year old, rather even up to six months, is the most common phenomenon because the crumbs have not yet had time to acquire their own immunity, and those immune cells that are transmitted with breast milk are not always enough to fight infections. Although older and, even adolescence, children are not immune from the appearance of this sore.

Dr. Komarovsky and many doctors agree that the cause of thrush in the mouth is a decrease in the protective properties of saliva in a child. He talks about why they are decreasing in his video magazine:

How to distinguish thrush from regurgitation

The visible signs of thrush do not appear immediately. The time interval from the moment of infection, and most often in infants it occurs during childbirth, varies within 5-14 days.

How does thrush manifest in children? Symptoms vary and depend on the severity of the disease:

1. Mild degree characterized by a curdled plaque localized on small areas of the cheeks and on the tongue (as in the first photo). A mild degree of candidiasis does not give a child especially strong anxiety. Plaque from mucous membranes can be easily removed with a cotton-gauze swab. The plaque removal sites do not bleed, but remain slightly reddened. Sour breath and fever are not observed;
2. Medium degree rarely does without elevated temperature (up to 380C). Thrush in a child's mouth manifests itself in pronounced large white heels of plaque. The hard upper palate turns red and becomes covered with a dense whitish film. Almost the entire oral cavity is affected by a fungus: the cheeks (from the inside), the tongue and even the lips of the baby (example in the photo). The plaque is removed hard and not all. When removed, in places where there were white spots, bleeding wounds often remain. Infant with a moderate degree of candidiasis, he is capricious and restless. The baby does not take the breast well and suckles it inactively, or even refuses food altogether;
3. With severe, neglected degree candidiasis, the temperature is high (more than 38-390C). The entire mouth is completely covered with a viscous, filmy white (sometimes grayish or yellowish) coating: white tongue and gums, infected cheeks, soft and hard palate. Plaque spreads to the walls of the pharynx, actively manifests itself on the lips of the child. It is impossible to completely remove plaque due to the fact that it is firmly connected with the mucous membranes of the baby's oral cavity. Infants are extremely difficult to tolerate this degree of thrush.

Adolescents are more likely to tolerate the disease than infants and young children.

Unpleasant sensations in the tummy - alarm bells for intestinal candidiasis.

There are two more forms of thrush that prevent little people from fully enjoying each new day. Intestinal candidiasis in children may occur after antibiotics, long time used to treat another medical condition. The main symptoms of intestinal candidiasis are bloating and diarrhea. Intestinal candidiasis in children can be provoked by:

• diabetes;
• allergy;
• any oncology;
• complicated infections;
• congenital or acquired immunodeficiency virus;
• poor personal hygiene.

Such a variant of the combination of the disease is widespread: oral candidiasis + thrush in a child on the pope. If the baby is surrounded by a red or white rash in the anal area, then this is a clear sign of intestinal candidiasis, although thrush on the pope already refers to cutaneous candidiasis.

The latter can develop due to external or internal factors favorable to the reproduction of fungi. External factors include:

• high humidity in the room;
• frequent overheating;
• tight clothing;

Mom knows how to dress her beloved sun correctly.

• direct and indirect systematic interaction of the skin and mucous membranes with alkalis, acids, cement;
• mechanical damage to the skin (burns, abrasions, cuts);
• poor or inadequate hygiene;
• parents.

Internal factors include:

• metabolic disorders in the body;
• vitamin imbalance;

The lack of some vitamins in the body of the crumbs significantly worsens its well-being.

• gastrointestinal diseases;
• chronic infections;
• oncological diseases;
• Down's disease;
• HIV infection;
• impaired blood supply to the limbs.

Skin candidiasis in an infant is easily confused with prickly heat. The baby's skin is covered with small bubbles, which subsequently merge into larger formations, which burst after a while, and erosion occurs in their place. Cutaneous candidiasis usually begins in areas of excessive sweating: in the groin folds, in the suprapubic region, between the buttocks, in the armpits, on the back and spreads over the entire surface of the skin.

Often, the root cause of the disease is the effect of the diaper on delicate skin child.

With candidiasis of the skin, the genitals are involved in the infectious and inflammatory process. Boys have the penis and scrotum, while girls have the vulva and vagina. Thrush on the genitals manifests itself in the same whitish cheesy flakes as in the oral cavity. At the same time, the kid experiences discomfort in the perineal region, expressed in itching and burning. The smooth skin affected by the fungus also itches constantly. This annoys the little ones, and they are capricious.

How and through what the infection occurs

The most common way of infection is during childbirth if the mother had thrush during pregnancy. Generic infection with candidiasis occurs in half of cases. Untreated candidiasis of the mammary glands- the second most popular method of infection. The third infection option is poorly processed baby's teats, bottles and toys. Poorly washed hands of the mother or the hospital staff can also be a source of infection.

Sterilization of the bottle is a mandatory operation before feeding the child.

The risk of contracting thrush is higher in premature babies and in babies who are teething. Frequent regurgitation promote the rapid growth of the fungus in the mouth. Try to hold the baby longer after column feeding. so that the air comes out without milk clots, which form the acidic environment native to the fungus in the child's oral cavity.

Moms are also at risk of contracting thrush when breastfeeding.

A baby with thrush in her mouth can easily infect her mother., unsuccessfully grasping her nipple with his lips and damaging it at the same time. With this development of the situation, the disease can be transmitted from mother to child and vice versa. In this case, it is necessary to be treated jointly by both mother and baby.

How and what to treat oral candidiasis

If it was not possible to avoid infection, then if a disease is detected, it is necessary to immediately see a doctor. He should prescribe treatment after a thorough examination and identification of the type of disease: intestinal, oral, cutaneous. With a mild spread of thrush, you can cure it using a soda solution. Usually, pediatricians tell mothers how the process of treatment with soda solution works, but a little guidance just in case does not hurt here.

An experienced doctor will help parents cope with the disease.

The solution should be 2%. To make it, take 100 milliliters of warm boiled water and dissolve a quarter teaspoon of baking soda in them. Ready. You can start manipulating.

Wrap a small piece of gauze around your finger and dip it in the solution. Now you need to remove plaque from the affected areas: gently scrape off the curdled formations from the tongue and cheeks of the baby. Change the gauze pad regularly and repeat the procedure until all succumbing thrush lesions have been removed.

Rinse the affected skin with a baking soda solution.

The most popular antifungal medications a doctor can prescribe are Diflucan(in solution or tablets), nystatin drops, "Candide"(solution). There is a cream for external use "Candide"... Reviews of parents on the forums about these drugs are only positive.

Marianna shares her impressions of the Candide solution:

“I had no problems with my first child (daughter): neither dysbacteriosis, nor thrush, but with Mitenka it’s the other way around. 2 days after being discharged from the hospital, he developed white spots on his cheeks. The district nurse arrived just for the patronage. She looked at my boy and said that he had thrush. I advised you to wipe your mouth up to 3 times a day applied to cotton swab solution "Candida". After feeding and before wiping, give Mitenka some water or rinse her mouth with a weak solution of manganese to get rid of milk residues. We completed the Candida course in 10 days - this is the minimum according to the nurse, but he helped us a lot! "

Vitamins and folk remedies in opposition to thrush

Vitamins are one of effective means getting rid of candidiasis. The complex has proven itself especially well "Biovital-gel" and vitamin B12(solution). Vitamin B12 must be performed the same manipulations as with a soda solution.

Folk remedies to combat thrush in the mouth are no less effective drugs recognized by official medicine. Sea buckthorn oil- the most famous and widespread remedy among the people. How to treat them for thrush in the mouth of a child? The principle is the same as when using a soda solution, only the oil does not need to be dissolved. Just lubricate your baby's entire mouth with it up to 5 times a day.(better before feeding). Chamomile has a calming and anti-inflammatory effect. An infusion or decoction of chamomile can be gradually added to the water and given to the baby or wipe his mouth. An alternative to chamomile is sage.

If the doctor suddenly prescribes borax solution for you as a medicine, do not use it. Boric acid, which is part of this product, is toxic.

Non-treatment of thrush is fraught with the transition of the latter into a chronic state, which sooner or later will result in a strong decrease in immunity, allergies and other serious complications.

The child's intestines are very weak, any unforeseen circumstances can unsettle. The slightest food poisoning may be accompanied by

severe diarrhea

This phenomenon can be extremely dangerous for the crumbs if you do not take action in time.

When going on a trip, the parents are faced with the question: "How to feed the baby on the road?" Canned food will come to the rescue children food... This article will tell you how to choose the right quality product.

Soother pacifier - friend or foe? Find out the opinions of doctors, pediatricians and speech therapists here www.o-my-baby.ru/razvitie/pitanie/vybor-soski.htm.

What to do to avoid catching thrush?

Untreated or healed oral candidiasis may recur under the right conditions. To avoid unnecessary problems, you just need to systematically follow simple procedures and recommendations. Prophylaxis for mothers begins during pregnancy. In order to avoid the development of candidiasis, you need to carefully look after your body, take a shower on time, not overheat, do not abuse flour and sweets, since sugar is food for Candida mushrooms, eating which they begin to activate and release poison into the body.

No sweets! The motto of all moms.

Earlier postpartum latching of the baby to the breast is the most effective method prevention of thrush. Thanks to natural feeding, the child forms a normal intestinal microflora preventing the pathological reproduction of harmful microorganisms.

Boiled feeding jars are safe for babies.

With IV, prevention is high-quality sterilization of bottles for water and feeding, nipples and other items that may end up in the mouth of a baby. It is not enough to simply pour boiling water over the dishes for feeding a baby. Be sure to boil all feeding attributes for up to six months or use a sterilizer.

Evgenia shares a method for preventing thrush in infants:

“Carrot juice is not only a source of nutrients and microelements for a small organism. This is an excellent preventive measure. I tried it repeatedly on three of my kids. You can drink carrot juice for a baby from a month old, but not with spoons, but 1-2 drops each. Just dilute with some water and give your little one this light "compote" once a day before you breastfeed him. Gradually, we increase the number of droplets in the water and by the year you can safely give up to 5 teaspoons of juice every other day. In such a simple way, I saved all three of my children from thrush in infancy. "

In short, the following conclusions can be drawn:

• thrush in children happens often;
• primary and secondary prevention - best remedy from infection and relapse;
• the main reason for the development of candidiasis is weakened immunity;
• factors provoking the rapid multiplication of fungi can be in the external environment or in the child's body;
• the mother must scrupulously monitor not only the baby, but also her health and hygiene, because she is most often the source of infection;
• in the war with thrush, folk remedies and vitamins showed themselves well;
• timely treatment leads to a quick recovery.

Diana Bal

The emerging thrush causes many uncomfortable symptoms in the child. Frequent exacerbations of the disease indicate that in the child's body there are signs of pronounced trouble, which it signals with manifestations of candidiasis.

What it is?

Candidiasis is a disease that is caused by fungi. In everyday life, the name "milkmaid" was stuck behind them. This is due to the presence of specific symptoms that occur with candidiasis. The disease usually proceeds in young children in different ways. In most cases, the course of the disease is mild. In newborns, candidiasis develops more difficult and is accompanied by the appearance of numerous uncomfortable symptoms that greatly worsen the well-being of the baby.

Special types of fungi are considered to be the culprit of the disease - Candida... They may be present in small amount and in a healthy child. Under the influence of various provoking exogenous and endogenous factors, the amount of candida in the body increases many times over. The grown fungal colonies are able to settle on various mucous membranes. This leads to numerous clinical variants of the disease with different localization.

The disease can occur in both girls and boys. According to statistics, cases of candidiasis are more often recorded in babies. This feature is due to the peculiarity of the structure and physiology of the female body. In the early childhood both boys and girls develop candidiasis equally often. To eliminate the adverse symptoms of the disease, special treatment is required.

Causes

Currently, there are a huge number of provoking factors leading to increased growth and reproduction of fungal flora. Each age has its own leading causes that contribute to the disease. The activation of the growth of fungi is possible in any physiological state, accompanied by a decrease in immunity.

To the most frequent reasons diseases include:

• Infection during childbirth. In this case, the infection of the child occurs at the moment when he passes through the birth canal. If the mother is sick with candidiasis, then the baby often has signs of this infection immediately after birth. In this situation, adverse symptoms of the disease can be found already in the baby.
• Direct contact with the mother. This form of the disease usually occurs in the first days after the birth of a baby. If the mother has signs of an acute form of candidiasis, then she can infect the newborn baby with this disease. Premature babies are most susceptible to this type of infection.
• Failure to comply with the rules of personal hygiene. You can get candidiasis by using someone else's towels. There are also confirmed cases of illness after bathing in a bathroom that has not been previously treated with disinfectant solutions. Risk of infection in babies early age at the same time, it is higher than that of older children.
• Prematurity. For those born earlier due date babies often have lowered immune system performance. Any infection, including fungal infection, easily causes them to become infected and develop adverse symptoms.

• Z diseases or clinical conditions occurring with impaired carbohydrate metabolism. Type 2 diabetes mellitus or alimentary obesity contributes to the development of thrush in babies. Glycemia or high blood glucose provokes active growth and rapid reproduction of the fungal flora. Chronic metabolic disorders often contribute to the development of childhood candidiasis.
• Taking certain medications for too long. These include: antibacterial agents, cytostatics and steroid hormones. When taken for a long time, the functioning of the immune system is disrupted. Subsequently, this leads to the development of signs of immune deficiency conditions in the child, contributing to the appearance of thrush.
• Frequent respiratory infections. Weakened babies have lower immunity. After severe and frequent colds, the child's body weakens sharply. In such children, as a rule, the growth of fungal flora increases, which leads to the appearance of signs of candidiasis.
• Immunodeficiency states. They can be congenital and acquired as a result of various diseases. Not enough effective work the immune system often contributes to the rapid growth of various opportunistic microorganisms, including Candida fungi. A prolonged decrease in immunity leads to the appearance of adverse symptoms of thrush in the child.
• Chronic diseases of internal organs. Pathologies of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract often contribute to the appearance of a fungal infection in the body. Disturbed digestion provokes the rapid development of fungi in children. If the treatment of chronic diseases of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract is not fully carried out or is not selected correctly, then this can cause the appearance of persistent thrush.

Kinds

Doctors identify several variants of the disease by localization:

• In the oral cavity. By settling in the mouth, fungi cause many different types of damage. These include: cheilitis, stomatitis, gingivitis, glasitis. According to statistics, oral candidiasis is most often found in infants and schoolchildren. Newborn babies can become infected from the mother during breastfeeding.
• In the throat. Quite a rare form of candidiasis. Often, this clinical type of thrush is disguised as various childhood infections. To establish the correct diagnosis in this case, a differential diagnosis is required. This type of candidiasis usually interferes with breathing and can be quite severe.
• On the face and in the eye area. This type of candidiasis occurs with the appearance of lacrimation, severe swelling of the eyelids. In some cases, a white, cloudy discharge, which contains a large number of fungi, flows out of the eyes. This form of candidiasis is dangerous by the appearance of complications - various visual impairments.

• In the intestines... The provoking cause in this case is often dysbiosis or chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Prolonged constipation contributes to the formation of anal forms of candidiasis in the baby. A pediatric gastroenterologist is involved in the treatment of such forms of thrush.
• In the esophagus... Causes dyspepsia and provokes the appearance of heartburn. To detect esophageal candidiasis, it is necessary to carry out fibrogastroscopy with the collection of biological material for research. Such differential diagnosis is carried out in order to exclude various neoplasms in the esophagus.
• In the brain. Quite a rare clinical form, however, very dangerous. The course of the disease is extremely difficult. In terms of symptoms, the disease resembles meningitis. To eliminate adverse symptoms, including severe headache and persistent nausea, large doses of antifungal drugs are used.

• Vaginal. It is the most common form. Localization - in the groin. In girls with this form of candidiasis, cheesy vaginal discharge appears. At the same time, many acute forms of thrush can become chronic.
• In the respiratory organs. The fungal flora contributes to the occurrence of candidal bronchitis. This condition causes the baby to cough and breathe. The cough is most often dry, but phlegm may appear when bacterial flora is attached. In some cases, hoarseness or hoarseness of the voice appears, as well as the body temperature rises and intoxication increases.
• On hands. Most often, a candidal infection affects the nails. They become brittle and dull, and also break and crumble quite easily. Numerous transverse white grooves appear on the upper surface of the nails.

Candida fungi like to settle on various mucous membranes, less often on the skin. This selective feature is caused by the peculiarity of their anatomical and physiological structure. This also determines the variety of different clinical variants of the disease.

Symptoms

Thrush occurs with multiple clinical manifestations. They are quite difficult to tolerate and bring severe discomfort to the baby. The severity of symptoms can be different and depends on the initial state of the child before the illness.

The presence of the baby a large number chronic diseases or severe immunodeficiency noticeably worsen the course of the disease and contribute to its transition to a chronic form.

Candida fungi

The most common symptoms include:

• The appearance of a white curdled bloom. It can cover the damaged areas in small amount or significantly. When touching a plaque, it begins to crumble and break. When trying to remove it, eroded areas remain on the mucous membranes, which can bleed. The color of the plaque is often white or with a grayish tinge.
• Puffiness... When fungi multiply, they cause severe inflammation. The inflammatory process provokes the appearance of tissue edema. The inflamed mucous membranes become dense, bright red. Swelling of the tongue makes swallowing painful and can also reduce appetite.
• Sucking disorder... Oral candidiasis causes feeding problems in infants. They have difficulty sucking breast milk. During feeding, the child becomes moody, crying. Severe soreness in the oral cavity, as well as a burning sensation, lead to the fact that the baby is less and less attached to the mother's breast.

• Cracks in the corners of the mouth. They are found with candidal cheilitis. This symptom can also be noticed at home. Deep grooves appear in the outer corners of the child's mouth. While eating, they can be injured and bleed.
• Lachrymation and soreness of the eyelids. This symptom is characteristic of candidal conjunctivitis. Usually the process is two-way. The duration of the disease in this case varies. On average, it is about 2-3 weeks.
• Itching and burning on the genitals. Occur with candidiasis of the intimate zone. They bring severe discomfort to the child and worsen his well-being.

• Frequent urination. It occurs with vaginal candidiasis, as well as with a fungal infection of the urinary tract. In this case, the portions of urine do not change, as well as the total amount per day. Only the frequency and number of urges to urinate increases.
• Nausea and vomiting. Occur with candidiasis of the gastrointestinal tract. To establish a diagnosis in this case is a very difficult task. Nausea can be persistent and difficult to treat with conventional medicines.
• The change skin and nails. May resemble dermatitis in appearance. In young babies, it usually first appears in the area of ​​skin folds. In appearance, it may resemble small swollen bumps with cloudy contents inside.
• Violation of general well-being. Severe forms of candidiasis are accompanied by an increase in body temperature and an increase in intoxication symptoms. Thrush is rather severe in babies of the first year of life. The severity of the condition affects the child's behavior. He becomes more lethargic and capricious, daytime sleepiness and some passivity increase, nervousness increases.

Diagnostics

Any mother can suspect the first signs of candidiasis. They are usually quite pronounced and very specific. However, if clinical signs of candidiasis are found, it is imperative to show the baby to the doctor. The doctor will conduct a clinical examination, and in some cases also additional studies for differential diagnosis.

This is necessary in order to exclude all diseases under which candidiasis can be disguised.

Usually, for candidal infection, they are prescribed:

• General blood analysis. Gives a descriptive picture of the presence of infection in a child's body. It also helps to establish the severity of functional disorders. This method is indicative and does not form the basis for the diagnosis.
• PCR. This method allows you to accurately detect the presence of fungus in various biological materials. For this test, a preliminary plaque collection is required.
• Microscopy. A high-resolution microscope can detect fungus in any environment. In some cases, for a more accurate result, doctors use preliminary staining of the material. This helps to identify the fungus even in difficult diagnostic cases.
• Serology. With the help of RSC and agglutination reaction, it is possible to detect candida fungi in urine, blood, discharge from the eyes, plaque from the vagina and other secretions. In some cases, this method is used to identify visceral forms of candidiasis or after a spinal tap.

Treatment

Candida infection should be treated as quickly as possible, immediately after diagnosis. Delayed therapy can contribute to the progression of the disease and its transition to a chronic form. For treatment, various drugs are used that have a detrimental effect on the fungus, as well as improve immunity. To eliminate the symptoms of candidal infection in babies, various antifungal drugs are used. They can be systemic and local.

The choice of the remedy, its dosage and frequency of treatment are chosen by the attending physician based on the initial severity of the child's condition and the presence of concomitant diseases of internal organs.

Local treatment is carried out various ointments, which have a detrimental effect on candidal fungi. These include: clotrimazole, pimafucin (natamycin), isoconazole (travogen), ketoconazole, triderm (effective for the treatment of foot candidiasis) and others. It usually takes about two weeks to eliminate the adverse symptoms of the disease. Long-term use of medicinal ointments is discussed with the attending physician. If the disease proceeds in a more protracted form, then the appointment of antifungal drugs with a systemic effect is already required. To enhance the therapeutic effect, fluconazole is added to local therapy.

He may be in different forms release: suspensions and capsules, as well as tablets. Usually a dose of 6-8 mg / kg is used per day. The duration of treatment is set depending on the severity of the course of the disease.

Common forms of skin candidiasis are treated with fluconazole at a dosage of 8-10 mg / kg per day. Usually, the entire dose of the drug is taken once during the day. Therapy for skin candidiasis also includes the appointment of topical forms of antifungal drugs. The average duration of the course of treatment is usually 14-21 days.

For the treatment of mucous membranes of the oral cavity that are inflamed and damaged by candidal infection, you can use hexoral or 2% sodium digluconate solution. The plots should be processed 3-4 times a day. If the process is mild, then such a local treatment is quite enough. When the disease recurs, it is already required the appointment of fluconazole (diflucan, mycosist, medoflucon) inside.

In a hospital, newborn babies can be treated with treatment regimens that include therapeutic dosages of nystatin.

With genital candidiasis, you can use antifungal ointments. Suitable for this 1% clotrimazole and 1% travogen. The duration of the administration of drugs depends on the severity of the course of the disease and the severity of clinical symptoms. With the ineffectiveness of local treatment, as well as with a worsening of the condition, the appointment of systemic antifungal agents is required. Visceral candidiasis is a difficult task to treat. Usually, complex therapy is required to eliminate adverse symptoms. With candidiasis of the gastrointestinal tract, treatment regimens are used that include the combined administration of fluconazole and nystatin at the same time. Fluconazole is prescribed at a dosage of 9-10 mg / kg of body weight, and nystatin 70,000-100,000 U / day up to 3-4 times a day.

The duration of the use of drugs depends on the clinical form of candidiasis, as well as its localization. On average, 1.5-2 weeks are enough to eliminate adverse symptoms. However, in some cases, longer medication is required. Treatment should be selected correctly to prevent possible recurrence of the disease in the future. During the course of therapy, the effectiveness of the prescribed treatment must be monitored. Also, doctors may prescribe general blood tests to the baby. These tests are necessary to establish adverse side reactions from child's body with prolonged use of antifungal drugs.

At the end of the course of the treatment carried out, a complete laboratory control is required to determine the residual presence of fungi.

In the treatment of fungal infections, great attention should be paid to the nutrition of the baby. For the entire acute period of the disease, the child is prescribed a special diet. It completely eliminates any sweet foods, as this promotes the growth of fungal flora. Also, all pickled and canned foods, spicy or spicy foods are removed from the diet. Meals should be fractional, at least 4-5 times a day.

For cooking, it is better to use a multicooker or a double boiler; braising and steaming are allowed.

Prophylaxis

Preventive measures play important role in the prevention of candidiasis in babies. Regular adherence simple rules will help keep the child's body healthy and protect against thrush. It is important to remember to observe them every day. Any violation can lead to the appearance of adverse symptoms of candidiasis.

In order not to get sick with thrush, you should:

• Strengthen immunity. This is facilitated by proper nutritious nutrition, healthy sleep, as well as optimally selected physical activity. Severe stress significantly weakens the immune system. Excessive psycho-emotional stress is best eliminated. Regular hardening also improves immunity performance.
• Favorable indoor climate. Many doctors believe that excessive dryness in the nursery, as well as the wrong temperature, can lead to the development of candidiasis. For supporting good health baby, try to monitor the humidity in the room. This will help special devices that humidify the air.
• Take walks in the fresh air. It has been scientifically proven that oxygen has a destructive effect on various microorganisms. Walking outside regularly will help your immune system function better and improve your baby's stamina.
• Observe the rules of personal hygiene. Regular hand washing, nipple cleaning before and after breastfeeding, use of personal towels and washcloths - simple ways prevent the contact method of infection with candidiasis. All family members should follow the rules of personal hygiene. Toddlers should be taught this from the earliest years of life.

For information on how to treat oral candidiasis in children, see the next video.

Thrush in infants is a fairly common occurrence. Usually, the disease manifests itself in the mouth on the tongue and in the genital area (groin). The reason may be both non-observance of basic hygiene rules and the baby's weak immune system. In any case, parents should know what thrush looks like, why it appears and how to cure it.

Thrush: what is this ailment

Candidiasis in young children is an inflammatory disease. A fungus called Candida multiplies on the genitals (in the groin of boys) and in the mouth. By itself, the disease does not go away: if treatment is not started on time, the disease becomes severe. In this case, the fungus begins to spread to the internal organs. However, it is worth noting that such a phenomenon can be found extremely rarely in a small child.

Candidiasis appears as a white coating on the genitals and in the mouth (usually on the tongue). When parents notice the first symptoms, it is necessary to see a doctor so that he can prescribe treatment.... Basically, drugs such as Nystatin and Miramistin are prescribed.

Causes of the disease

There can be many reasons why a baby may develop thrush. Let's consider the most common ones.

1. Parents can infect a newborn when they do not follow the rules of hygiene - for example, when breastfeeding... Also, the disease is transmitted during labor.
2. If the air in the room where the baby is most often found is too dry, candidiasis can form on the tongue. The immune system of a newborn is not yet able to fight surrounding infections, so at first the baby can easily catch an ailment.
3. In a child's mouth, the disease appears if parents do not sterilize bottles and nipples poorly.
4. Children develop a white coating after taking antibiotics. You should try to remove it with lemon juice. If it doesn’t work, then it’s a thrush.
5. Tooth decay and other dental problems can also cause symptoms of the disease.

If you do not start treatment with Nystatin or Miramistin on time, the fungus will multiply rapidly and form on the genitals.

Symptoms

To diagnose an ailment, you need to know which symptoms of a child's condition to pay attention to first.

The main symptoms are as follows.

1. The baby refuses to eat immediately after the mother's nipple and feeding bottle are in the mouth.
2. The child began to sleep worse, very restless, often crying for no reason.
3. If the newborn is constantly spitting up, the cause may be a white coating in the mouth.
4. Systematic weight loss.

When parents notice these symptoms, the first thing they need to do is see if the child has plaque on the tongue. white... Next, the genitals are examined. In the event that candidiasis was detected, Nystatin and Miramistin in the initial stages will help to quickly get rid of it. These drugs are safe for children, side effects Hardly ever. However, you first need to consult a pediatrician. Perhaps these symptoms indicate other problems in the child's body.

Course of the disease: main stages

1. In the early stages, the disease does not provoke discomfort in children. Red spots form on the tongue, and the very next day a white cheesy bloom appears on them. If you do not consult a doctor and do not use Nystatin or Miramistin, the disease will begin to develop further. In some situations, treatment can be dispensed with folk remedies and hygiene.
2. In the second stage, even more cheesy plaque becomes on the tongue. If you try to remove it, small erosion will form, which is already giving the baby discomfort. He may begin to refuse to eat, because when sucking, he experiences pain and burning in his mouth.
3. The third stage is the most difficult. When parents do not respond to candidiasis in children on time, the fungus begins to develop rapidly. At this stage, it affects the entire oral cavity - gums, tonsils, lips, throat, palate, cheeks. The child may have a fever, lethargy and anxiety, impaired intestinal motility. You cannot do without drug treatment. The doctor will examine the baby and prescribe Nystatin or Miramistin. However, in the severe stage of thrush, it is not always possible to limit oneself to only these means.

Possible complications

Candidiasis must be treated immediately, because it is much more dangerous than it might seem at first glance. If you do not respond in time, the baby may experience the following complications:

• sepsis;
• defeat by the Candida fungus of internal organs;
• lesion of the anus, itching and burning in this area;
• dehydration of the body.

It is important to know that in premature babies, delayed treatment can be fatal. It is necessary to start treatment with Nystatin and Miramistin on time. For greater effect, combine this treatment with hygiene procedures.

Criteria for the diagnosis of the disease

Thrush at infant differs in a specific clinical picture. It is impossible to confuse this disease with something else. To diagnose candidiasis, attention is paid to the following criteria:

• sour smell in the mouth;
• cheesy coating on the tongue, which can be easily removed with a finger;
• temperature up to 37.5.

After a visual examination, parents should take the child to a pediatrician for examination. If the diagnosis is confirmed, treatment with Nystatin and Miramistin is prescribed. However, it is not enough to treat a baby with medications - it is also necessary to follow the rules of hygiene.

How to get rid of an illness

How and how to treat candidiasis in children is a question of interest to all parents. If symptoms of the disease are detected, treatment is prescribed by a pediatrician, depending on the age of the child. It is also necessary to consult a dentist to find out if white plaque has appeared in the oral cavity due to the eruption of the first teeth.

Newborn treatment

In the first days of life, children may develop candidiasis because they often regurgitate. The mother should try to improve her feeding technique as much as possible.

There are two ways to get rid of white plaque in your mouth.

1. Soda. Dissolve one spoonful of soda in warm water. We treat the affected areas with the resulting solution every 2 hours.
2. Manganese. We treat the areas affected by thrush with a weak solution of potassium permanganate, according to the same principle as with soda.

Children over 6 months

Treating candidiasis in children over 6 months old is required in the same way as in newborns. The only difference is that in this case, you can add medications:

• Nystatin;
• Miramistin;
• Candide.

Nystatin is considered the safest.

The main stages of treatment

Correct and effective treatment from thrush baby should be consistent. Parents must follow three basic steps.

1. After each meal, the oral cavity must be carefully cleaned of possible food debris.
2. The oral cavity is treated with a solution of soda or potassium permanganate with a gauze napkin.
3. A medication is applied (Nystatin, Miramistin).

Prophylaxis

To protect the child from the manifestation of candidiasis, preventive measures must be followed. Basically, these are basic hygiene rules.

1. Parents should rinse all bottles well before feeding their babies.
2. Mom needs to monitor the hygiene of her hands and nipples (for an infant).
3. After eating, the baby should drink some boiled water so that no food remains on the surface of the tongue.

Any drug treatment, including the drugs Miramistin and Nystatin, weaken the baby's immunity. Parents should understand that the disease is easier to prevent than to subject the child to treatment later. Compliance with the simplest hygiene rules will help protect your baby from complications caused by thrush.