features
quizzes experts
If you've chosen to bottlefeed, you'll want to choose
the best formula for your child--a regular formula or perhaps soy
or a hydrolysate variety. Learn what to look for and how to prepare
and use it safely.
experts
My
14-month-old son has been diagnosed with thrush. What can I do to
make sure it doesn't occur again?
Q: My 14-month-old
son has been diagnosed with thrush. The doctor prescribed mystatin,
then on our own we used gentian violet, which cleared it up, but it
has returned twice since then. What can I do to make sure it doesn't
occur again? He is breastfeeding, but unfortunately he is allergic
to cow's milk so I can't give him yogurt.
A: Thrush is a yeast infection that is common in babies. It's especially
common after someone has been on antibiotics, because along with killing
the harmful bacteria, antibiotics can also kill the beneficial bacteria
in the mouth. Taking active cultures in a supplement such as Culturelle,
or as yogurt (soy yogurt is available for those who are allergic to
cow's milk), can help prevent thrush. Just be sure to read the label
on the yogurt (whether milk- or soy-based) to make sure it contains
active cultures.
If a breastfeeding
baby gets thrush, it's often helpful to treat the breasts as well.
Yeast can live on the skin, which can cause thrush to ping-pong back
and forth from baby to mother. Also treat or sterilize any artificial
nipples that go into baby's mouth.
If you're already
doing all this and the thrush keeps coming back for no apparent reason,
it would be wise to ask your pediatrician about it. She could run
some immune tests to see if your baby is especially susceptible to
thrush and if some additional support might be needed.
Your
should know:
The
information on this Web site is designed for educational purposes
only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical
advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose
or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your
pediatrician or family doctor. Please consult a doctor with any
questions or concerns you might have regarding your or your child's
condition.
Rebornne Baby. American Baby
