Yeast infections are commonly associated with adult women, but they are quite common in toddler girls too. Yeast is a part of the normal flora of the skin, mucus membranes, digestive tract and the genitourinary tract. But when the beneficial bacteria are killed by antibiotics or if there is very little saliva produced or the acidity of the mouth changes or if the immunity is weakened due to certain diseases or disorders then the yeast grows unchecked causing Candidiasis.
A
yeast infection is actually an overgrowth of the yeast
in the body. In toddlers, a yeast infection may present
as thrush (in the oral cavity) or diaper rash (severe
forms of rash are actually yeast infections). Toddlers
most susceptible to yeast infections are those in
diapers, those treated with antibiotics, children with
diabetes mellitus, children treated with steroids, and
those with a compromised immune system. Diapers trap
heat and moisture and are an ideal environment for
yeast. Toddler girls can develop a yeast infection
of the skin in the diaper area as well as in their
vagina.
The
best remedy for toddler yeast infection is to make sure
they do not get them in the first place or to prevent
recurring episodes. Decreasing sugar, processed foods,
and refined carbohydrates in the diet, changing the
diaper as frequently as possible, keeping the diaper
area dry, giving probiotics etc. help prevent yeast
infection. Feeding bottles, pacifiers, and other toys
must be sterilized daily. Once the infection clears,
discard old nipples and pacifiers and buy new ones.
However, it is best to treat the thrush or diaper rash
as soon as it appears to prevent exacerbation. Nystatin
applied on the rash twice a day is enough to take care
of it. If this fails Diflucan is given as once a day
dose. Visit the pediatrician before starting any
treatment.
However,
using antifungal medications in toddlers should be
avoided as far as possible. It is advisable to try out
home remedies like application of aloe vera, chamomile
bags on the rash, diluted tea tree oil, or apple cider
vinegar locally to the yeast infection. The toddler may
be bathed in tub of warm water to which vinegar is
added. Baking soda solution applied to the rash is also
useful.
Grapefruit seed extract, garlic, yoghurt, etc.
can be given internally.
Starting
out in life with harmful medications is a poor
choice. A
good choice would be to get holistic treatment for the
toddler's yeast infection. This will get rid of the
yeast infection once and for all without the expense and
harmful side effects of medications and
drugs.
