Candida Symptoms in Children

If you were under the impression that candida infection (also known as yeast infection or candidiasis) is an adult disease, limited only to adults, then you are mistaken. Children, and even babies, can suffer from oral yeast infection known as the thrush. The candida yeast is normally present in the body and does not cause any disorder. However, certain factors lead to imbalance in the level or amount of the candida, which leads to the yeast infection. Use of antibiotics and steroids is the most common cause of developing Candida in children. This yeast is also found in the folds of skin which can lead to further symptoms. Here we will see more on the symptoms and treatment methods of Candida infection in children.

Candida Symptoms

Most of the children suffer from the oral thrush, i.e, development of the yeast infection in the mouth. The classical symptoms of oral thrush in children include white chalk like patches inside the mouth. A white film like appearance is also observed on the tongue and on the lips. Thrush symptoms like lesions, which can even bleed, in and around the mouth can also be found in children. Secondly, an eczema like skin rash is also one of the most identifiable Candida symptoms in children. The rash is usually seen in the skin folds and the groin area. This is known as diaper rash and is one of the common yeast overgrowth symptoms in babies and children. Along with these symptoms, you may also observe behavioral problems and other disorders in children, if they suffer from Candida infection. The baby / child may be constantly irritable, may suffer from hyperactivity, may constantly suffer from cough and nasal congestion. Some children also suffer from earaches, headaches or stomach aches. All these factors may also contribute to the child's concentration, and may disturb his learning processes. Therefore, it is essential to identify the Candida overgrowth symptoms and look for quick treatment for candida in children.

Candida Treatment

As mentioned above, it is essential for parents and guardians to recognize the symptoms, so as to get the condition treated immediately. Candida overgrowth in children is treated in a similar fashion as it is treated in case of adults. However, on the happier side, one should note that children recover from the Candida infection sooner than adults. As the first and the most commonly used yeast infection treatment method, the doctor will prescribe antifungal medication to reduce the amount of fungal infection in the body. Antifungal medications are usually prescribed, along with antibiotics, in order to get rid of all the harmful bacteria and fungus in the body.

Apart from medication, there are several natural remedies that are used for treating Candida. It is found that Candida thrives on sugar and hence, the doctor will prescribe a diet that is lacking or low in sugar. As a parent, you should also make sure that your child limits eating sugar, sweets and candies, when suffering from this condition. At the same time, eating fermented foods like breads, cakes, should also be limited. Following this diet can help in getting rid of the condition faster. However, it should also be noted that the natural remedies should be followed only after consulting a doctor.

As a summation of the above, note that chalky white film in the mouth, tongue; skin rash and lesions, are Candida symptoms to look out for. If observed, wait no further, consult a doctor and treat the condition as soon as possible. Remember that this condition can be treated and cured completely. Take care!