Oral Thrush Candida Albicans

Oral Thrush Candida Albicans is a common childhood illness caused by a bacterial infection and occurring  predominantly in babies, but can return later with children of all ages up to adulthood. Oral thrush is a yeast fungus infection called Candida Albicans which affects the mouth and is passed from the mother when the newborn is passed through the birth canal.

The fungus manifests in the mouth of newborns and infants causing discomfort. The infection attcks the mouth, tongue, soft palate and gums, but on rare occasions it can affect the lips and cheeks. It also has been known for infants to pick up the oral thrush infection by putting foreign substances into their mouth. It is highly likely that oral thrush Candida Albicans will return at various stages through the childs growth and esspecially when the youngster is feeling weak.

Signs and Symptoms

• Whitish/yellow patches in the mouth
• Dryness of the mouth
• Small ulcers when the patches are wiped off.

Incubation Period.

There is no Incubation Period with Oral Thrush Candida Albicans.

Treatment

Be sure to sterilise the childs eating utensils, teats, etc. This should prevent the thrush being passed on to newborn babies.

Gently swab the childs mouth with a non-prescription mouthwash. If the Oral Thrush (Candida Albicans) does not clear within 3 days then contact your Local Health Centre for further advice.