Which department to see for thrush

Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
Updated on September 29, 2024
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Oral thrush is a disease caused by Candida infections of the oral mucosa. If you go for pediatric treatment, in a division with detailed specialties, newborns can visit the newborn outpatient clinic; infants or older children usually visit the pediatric outpatient clinic during normal working hours. During non-working hours, such as noon, evening, weekends, and holidays, it's appropriate to visit the pediatric emergency department. If visiting a specialized children's hospital or a dental hospital, the pediatric oral medicine outpatient clinic is also a good option. Of course, if a child with oral thrush also has some underlying diseases, it might be advisable to visit the outpatient clinic for the primary underlying disease.

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Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
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What is thrush?

Thrush is a fungal infection that commonly occurs in infants and young children, especially those with weakened immunity due to prolonged use of immunosuppressants or steroids. It is caused by the infection of oral mucous membranes by Candida albicans. Commonly affected areas include the oral cavity, mucous membranes, gums, and tongue. It appears as white patches on the mucosa that generally cannot be wiped off with a cotton swab. Forceful wiping may lead to bleeding. Treatment mainly involves topical medication, a light diet, and maintaining good oral hygiene, which is very important.

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Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
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Oral thrush is treated by the Department of Stomatology.

Thrush is a disease caused by Candida albicans infection of the oral mucosa, which is more common in infants and young children, especially those with weakened immune systems or those who are taking steroids or immunosuppressants. If the baby develops thrush during the newborn period, they should be seen at the neonatology clinic. If the thrush occurs after one month of age, older infants can be seen at the pediatric clinic during normal working hours. During non-working hours, such as noon, evening, weekends, or holidays, pediatric emergency services are available. If convenient, a pediatric dentistry clinic can also be visited.

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Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
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Is thrush easy to scrape off?

Oral thrush is caused by an infection with Candida albicans, resulting in localized lesions on the oral mucosa. Typically, a white membranous layer appears on the affected mucosa, which is difficult to wipe off. Forceful removal can lead to submucosal bleeding, which means it is not advisable to scrub the area. Instead, rinsing the mouth with about 2% baking soda solution is the correct approach, and this can relieve most symptoms. Additionally, it is important to maintain proper disinfection and hygiene. All tools that come into contact with the child's mouth during the period of oral thrush should be disinfected before and after each use. Consuming probiotics can also help manage the condition, reducing the likelihood of recurrence.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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What causes thrush?

Thrush is generally due to an imbalance in the microbial flora, leading to an infection by Candida albicans. It is common in newborns and infants. Children who have long-term malnutrition, diarrhea, or who have been treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics or corticosteroid hormones may also be susceptible to thrush. Additionally, if the mother has an infection with Candida albicans in the intestines, or if there is contamination on the nipple during breastfeeding, or if the nursing equipment is infected with fungi, this could also lead to the occurrence of thrush.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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Can thrush heal by itself?

Thrush is generally caused by a fungal infection due to an imbalance in the microbial flora, primarily involving the formation of a white plaque membrane by Candida albicans on the surface of the oral mucosa. It is mainly seen in individuals with lowered immunity, such as those with long-term malnutrition, repeated use of antibiotics, diarrhea, or the use of certain medications like corticosteroids. Additionally, unsanitary conditions during breastfeeding, fungal contamination on the mother's nipples, or fungal infection from nursing equipment can also lead to thrush. Typically, thrush does not require special antimicrobial medication. If the baby's immunity improves and their intestinal flora are properly established, thrush can heal spontaneously. It is generally recommended to orally take some probiotics and enhance oral care, which can include cleaning the oral cavity with 2% sodium bicarbonate before and after breastfeeding, or locally applying antifungal agents to suppress the fungal growth in the mouth.