Yeast infection or candidiasis is believed to be a disease that affects adults, especially women. However, it is also very common in children. This article will enlighten you about causes, symptoms, and treatment for yeast infections occurring in children.
When children are born, their immune system is very weak. As they grow up, even the immune system starts strengthening, but it is only when they become adults, that it becomes fully strong. This is the reason why children as well as teenagers get infected by various diseases very easily. One such disease commonly seen in children is candidiasis yeast infection. They appear in the form of red swollen tissues which are covered by creamy or white-colored patches, and can be seen in the mouth as well as in the genital and anal areas.
Causes
Antibiotics: This is one of the major cause of yeast infections. The intake of antibiotics may cure the child from an illness, but in turn destroys all the bacteria present in the body, needed for the child to stay healthy. Due to the absence of bacteria in the body, the yeast fungus is able to thrive without getting noticed, leading to the occurrence of yeast infection.
High Intake Of Sugar: Consumption of sugar in high quantities can lead to growth of fungus in the body. Though commercial baby foods claim to be unsweetened, they contain high levels of sugar. Other than that, canned fruit juices and even those made at home contain 5-6 teaspoons of sugar. It is also said that consumption of cow’s milk, rice milk, soy milk, or goat’s milk can lead to yeast infections, since they contain high amounts of sugar.
Through The Mother: If the mother has yeast infection while giving birth, she can pass over the infection to the baby. Also, breastfeeding can give rise to this condition in children.
Diaper Rash: Little children often suffer from diaper rash. If left untreated, it can lead to yeast infection in them.
Symptoms
The most common symptom is the appearance of rashes in the affected areas. However, there are other things that accompany yeast infection, which include chronic acute abdominal pain and other digestive problems like bloating, diarrhea, and gas. Other symptoms seen in kids affected by this disease are athletes foot, chronic ear infections, hives, eczema, etc. They may also complain of frequent headaches, and may seem to be tired and depressed most of the time. Some are also reported to have learning problems in such cases.
Treatment
If your child is suffering from these symptoms, it is necessary that you get him/her treated soon. The pediatrician would recommend the application of antifungal cream on the infected areas. Apart from this, it would also be beneficial to treat the child with probiotics. You can either feed your child some yogurt, or give him probiotic supplements. If your child has yeast infection in the rectal area, care should be taken, and the diaper should be changed within short periods of time. Feeding the child with green foods like bifidus, barley green, spirulina, etc., along with a diet containing fibrous foods, are also effective ways of treatment. However, it is important to consult the physician before choosing any of the treatment measures.
You must have understood the importance of preventing the occurrence of this infection in kids. Ensure that your child follows a healthy diet, and is getting all the essential nutrients required to become strong. In the case of infants, it is necessary that their major source of nutrition remains mother’s milk, and commercial products should be avoided as much as possible.
Yeast infections are curable. However, they cause pain and irritation to the patients. Hence, it is important to take the necessary precautions to keep your child safe from this discomforting disease.
Disclaimer: This HealthHearty article is solely for informative purpose and not intended to replace the advice of medical experts.
