Cause of Yeast Infection

Yeast infections are caused by Candida, fungus species. Usually, these infections will heal, but people with weakened immune systems, and babies are more likely to suffer from recurring infections.

There are a number of causes which lead to yeast infections:

• One is increased use of antibiotics. This causes an imbalance of microbes in the body, which may result in Candida overgrowth.
• Another cause of yeast infection is related to children’s diet and nutrition. Many foods, and even formulas, contain a high amount of sugar. Sugary foods increase Candida growth, and the “sweet” imbalance may lead to infection.
• Yeast infections are also common in newborns. Yeast are naturally present in the vagina, therefore at birth, the infant comes in contact with it and may be infected.
• Furthermore, Candida grows in moist skin areas. Baby’s diaper rash may be worsened if infected.
• Also, let’s not forget the fact that little (and big…) kids love being and playing in water. Many times, they will stay in their wet bathing suits, even after coming out of the water. As mentioned, yeast “love” moist areas, therefore, a wet bathing suit on wet skin will be “perfect”…
• Children who suck on their thumb may also develop yeast infection on the skin around fingernail.

A common yeast infection is thrush, which is oral. It is seen as white, thick patches lying on a red base inside the mouth. But as mentioned, other body parts may be infected as well.

In healthy children and adults, the infection can be diagnosed with a simple exam of mouth or skin.

Oral thrush needs medication prescribed by a doctor. Diaper rashes or other skin yeast infections do not require prescriptions by doctors. Of course, if these infections worsen, a doctor should be consulted.

Jake Vand