Toddler Yeast Infections
Posted by admin on June 2nd, 2009
Young children do get toddler yeast infections contrary to popular belief that only adults get them. Here, we will discuss some helpful solutions to combat this overlooked dilemma.
Diaper Rash or Yeast Infection?
Toddler yeast infections may very well be present with a diaper rash. Don’t confuse the two as they are not the same. A diaper rash will usually clear up within 48 hours of diaper rash treatment; while the latter will only begin to show signs of infection. It will also have a more deeper and pronounced redness, in addition to spreading up into the abdomen area. You will notice a more scaly appearance to the rash as well as a slightly raised sore. If the bumps become pus-filled, it probably isn’t diaper rash.
Causes of toddler yeast infection
If your child is on antibiotics or the mother breastfeeding is on them, a baby is very susceptible to getting thrush or a yeast infection in the diaper area.
An infant’s immune system is not as developed as an adults: it is very easy for yeast to grow wild without the extra protection of ‘good’ bacteria in the system to keep the yeast in check.
Thrush in a baby can easily develop into a yeast infection in the diaper area because yeast is in the digestive tract. The food that the infant eats will end up as stool in the baby’s diaper eventually. The wet and moist environment is just what yeast loves, so it’s not hard to understand why a baby will get them there.
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Preventing toddler yeast infection
The same protocol for diaper rash should be applied here. Clean and dry is the key element. Change the soiled diapers as soon as you know they need changing. Put the diaper on snugly and not too tight so air can circulate.
Wash your hands well so you don’t spread bacteria to the rest of the baby’s body-yeast live everywhere, even in the skin folds.
Treating a Toddler Yeast Infection
There are topical anti-fungal creams available over-the counter. Apply to the areas that are infected-don’t worry about the baby’s gender, the anti-fungals work on all infants.
You will want to visit your pediatrician if you don’t see results or changes within 3 days to rule out any other type of infection.
By Ellen Dole