This fungal infection is common in infants under 6 months of age. Thrush is characterized by slightly raised, white patches resembling cottage cheese which can be found on the tongue, gums, inside cheeks and lips of the infant. Although this yeast infection is self-limiting, a major concern is that feeding may become painful and result in diminished nutritional intake for the infant. This infection may also spread to the nursing mother causing her nipples to become painful, reddened and cracked. The presence of thrush in a older child is uncommon and may be a sign of a more serious illness affecting the immune system.
Alternative medicine is an appropriate first step for a child with thrush.
However, if symptoms do not respond to natural therapies or if the baby's ability to feed is affected, a conventional medical approach should be tried. If thrush is accompanied by fever, cough, or gastrointestinal distress, the intervention of a conventional health care provider is necessary. Herbal Medicine offers remedies such as aloe vera gel for topical application to affected areas. Be sure to use food-grade gel. Aloe vera has anti-fungal properties.