Yeast Infection Symptoms in Toddlers

Everyone has a healthy amount of fungi present in their skin. However, when circumstances are right, this fungi turns into a yeast infection, causing a great deal of discomfort for its sufferer. While an adult is able to voice his symptoms and receive a quick diagnosis, toddlers are not always able to do the same. Although a yeast infection in a toddler is not a fatal condition, parents must be vigilant and watch for any peculiarities in their child's body to avoid complications.

Function

• Toddlers are perfect candidates for yeast infections as the candida (yeast) thrives in warm, wet places. Their diapers provide an excellent breeding ground.

Types

• There are two main types of yeast infections that affect toddlers. The first is thrush, and the second is a candida yeast infection.

Features

• Thrush is an oral yeast infection that forms thick, white patches over skin that is red and swollen inside the mouth. Candida yeast infections are a result of an overgrowth of yeast in areas of the body that are wet and warm. It resembles thrush but has a foul odor similar to bread that is rising.

Symptoms

• If your child appears to be experiencing pain or itching in the genital area, she may have a yeast infection. Also, if he appears to have a diaper rash, but the rash does not respond to treatment, chances are it is a yeast infection.

Prevention/Solution

• Change your toddler's diaper as often as possible to keep her dry, especially during the hotter months of the year. You can also use an over-the-counter, anti-fungal topical cream to treat the yeast infection.

Warning

• Thrush can cause immense pain, which may reduce your toddlers ability to eat and drink. It is during this time that you want to help them drink as much as possible to avoid dehydration.