Is oral thrush contagious?

Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
Updated on September 10, 2024
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Oral thrush is an infection caused by Candida albicans due to certain specific conditions, such as a weakened immune system or long-term malnutrition, prolonged use of broad-spectrum antibiotics or corticosteroid hormones, and dysbiosis in the intestinal flora. It primarily manifests as white patches on the oral mucosa. During breastfeeding, if Candida contaminates the nipples or nursing equipment, it can also lead to oral thrush. Generally, oral thrush is not highly contagious. It is recommended to maintain good hygiene and proper oral care. Generally, breastfeeding is not significantly affected under normal circumstances.

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Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
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How to treat thrush?

Thrush is caused by an infection of the oral mucosa with Candida albicans, so the treatment focuses on addressing this cause. It is advisable to wash the oral cavity with 2% baking soda water, 3-4 times a day, which generally leads to recovery. If the effect is still not satisfactory, nystatin can be added, dissolved in 2% baking soda water for oral application. Of course, thrush infections are very prone to recurrence. The most important factor causing recurrence is hygiene. Therefore, all items such as bottles, cups, and spoons that come into contact with the baby's mouth should be boiled and sterilized after each use. If breastfeeding, the mother's breasts and nipples should be cleaned with 2% baking soda before and after feeding to avoid recurrence. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
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What to do if the baby has thrush?

Oral thrush is caused by the parasitic proliferation of Candida albicans in the mucous membrane of the mouth. It is a secondary infection typically seen in individuals with weakened immune systems or those who have been using antibiotics for an extended period. In such cases, initially, one can use a 2.5% sodium bicarbonate solution to rinse the mouth, specifically targeting the areas affected by thrush. After meals, crush nystatin tablets and apply the powder to the areas with thrush, using this method three times a day. Additionally, taking probiotics orally, such as Bifidobacteria, can aid in treatment. Generally, these measures can control the condition within 3 to 5 days.

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Written by Yao Li Qin
Pediatrics
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Is thrush prone to recurrence?

Oral thrush is due to an infection with Candida albicans in the mouth, and it is relatively easy to recur. It primarily occurs in children who have been frequently ill recently and have taken a lot of antibiotics, or in those children who have low immunity. Under these conditions, if oral care is poor and these adverse factors persist, then the child's oral thrush is particularly prone to recurrence. Therefore, once oral thrush is diagnosed, it is essential to treat it actively. After treatment, it is necessary to treat the area with sodium bicarbonate for a period of time. If antibiotics or corticosteroid drugs are still being used, preventive treatment should also be carried out to completely cure the oral thrush. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor)

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Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
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Does thrush need treatment?

Oral thrush is a white Candida infection of the oral mucosa, which certainly requires timely treatment. Firstly, oral thrush causes discomfort in the mouth; secondly, if left untreated for an extended period, it may also spread to the pharyngeal area. Thirdly, recurrent episodes of oral thrush can lead to decreased immunity and may facilitate subsequent infections. Therefore, active treatment is necessary. Treatment primarily involves using 2% baking soda solution to rinse the mouth. In severe cases, adding nystatin for oral rinsing might be required. Of course, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial, and all tools that come into contact with the mouth must be thoroughly disinfected.

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Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
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What to do about thrush?

Thrush is a local lesion caused by the infection of oral mucosa by Candida albicans. Comprehensive treatment measures should be adopted for treatment, starting with addressing the cause. Nystatin and baking soda water can be used to rinse the mouth three to four times daily. Additionally, good oral hygiene must be maintained. All items that come into contact with the mouth should be sterilized before and after eating or feeding, not just daily, as sterilizing only once a day is insufficient. Thirdly, children and patients can consume probiotics to regulate gastrointestinal function and enhance immunity; appropriate medication to boost immune strength can also be taken. Of course, if there are underlying diseases, treatment should still continue. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a professional doctor.)