What is neonatal thrush?

Dec 27, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, neonatal oral thrush may be caused by poor oral hygiene, malnutrition, weakened immunity, dysbacteriosis, or secondary immunodeficiency. To prevent this condition, it is important to regularly disinfect bottles and nipples, and to clean the nipples and hands before and after breastfeeding. At the same time, ensure the newborn receives sufficient protein and vitamins.

Generally, neonatal thrush may be caused by poor oral hygiene, malnutrition, weakened immunity, microbial imbalance, or secondary immunodeficiency. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Poor Oral Hygiene

During feeding, if the bottles, nipples, mother's breast, or the feeding environment are unclean, Candida albicans can easily proliferate and cause thrush. Regular sterilization of bottles and nipples, cleaning the breasts and hands before and after breastfeeding, and maintaining hygienic feeding conditions are recommended.

2. Malnutrition

Neonates suffering from malnutrition have weaker oral mucosal resistance, making them more susceptible to Candida albicans infection. Enhancing the neonate's nutritional intake, particularly proteins and vitamins, can strengthen the resistance of the oral mucosa.

3. Weakened Immunity

Congenital or acquired immune deficiencies in neonates reduce resistance to Candida albicans, making the oral mucosa prone to infection and resulting in thrush. This may be accompanied by recurrent infections and delayed growth and development. Treatment may include medications such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus tablets, nystatin tablets, or miconazole nitrate cream, as directed by a physician.

4. Microbial Imbalance

Prolonged use of broad-spectrum antibiotics or high-dose corticosteroids may disrupt the body's microbial balance, allowing Candida albicans to proliferate. Oral mucosal infection leads to thrush and may be accompanied by intestinal dysbiosis symptoms such as diarrhea and indigestion. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include clotrimazole cream, sodium bicarbonate tablets, or Bifidobacterium quadruple viable tablets.

5. Secondary Immunodeficiency

Secondary immunodeficiency is usually caused by long-term infections, diarrhea, or malnutrition. The oral mucosa becomes more susceptible to Candida albicans infection, leading to thrush. Symptoms may also include recurrent infections and weight loss. Treatment may involve medications such as thymopeptide enteric-coated tablets, pidotimod dispersible tablets, or transfer factor oral solution, as directed by a doctor.

To prevent this condition, it is important to regularly sterilize bottles and nipples, and to clean the breasts and hands before and after breastfeeding. Additionally, ensuring adequate intake of proteins and vitamins for the neonate helps strengthen the resistance of the oral mucosa.

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A 10-month-old baby sticking out its tongue may be caused by physiological factors or pathological factors. It could be a physiological phenomenon due to teething or imitating others who stick out their tongues. It might also result from oral mucosal injury, malnutrition, emotional stress, and other factors leading to mouth ulcers. Additionally, it could be caused by oral thrush due to infection with Candida albicans.

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Can nystatin tablets be used in the mouth of infants?

Nystatin tablets can be used to treat diseases such as oral thrush in infants. However, they are generally ground into powder and then mixed with substances like cod liver oil to form a suspension, which is then applied to the affected areas in the mouth, rather than applying the tablet directly. During treatment, it is important to maintain good lifestyle habits and avoid eating spicy or irritating foods such as pepper, chili peppers, and garlic, which may hinder recovery.

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What is thrush?

Under normal circumstances, snow mouth disease, also known as thrush, is an oral mucosal inflammatory condition caused by infection with Candida albicans. If experiencing any discomfort, timely medical consultation is recommended. Regular tooth brushing and rinsing, along with cleaning between teeth using tools such as dental floss, are advised in daily life to reduce bacterial growth in the oral cavity. Additionally, engaging in regular physical exercise, improving physical fitness, and enhancing immunity can help resist Candida infections.