Thrush is a type of yeast overgrowth known as Candida albicans which affects a nursing baby's mouth and diaper area and the mother's breasts. The main symptom of oral thrush in infants is distinctive white patches coating the inside of the mouth and sometimes the tongue. These patches resemble cottage cheese and cannot be washed or wiped off.
Oral thrush causes mild discomfort but can lead to a sore throat, nausea, or a loss of appetite.
It is called esophagitis when it occurs in the throat. Diaper thrush usually grows on a preexisting diaper rash. For mothers, the symptoms of thrush include red, flaky nipples which are usually sore and itch. The nipples are often covered with white patches or small, white, hard blisters. There are often sharp, shooting pains in the breasts, and the breasts may be red or bright pink.