Last week we reviewed how to treat a diagnosed case of yeast, this week we are going to go over symptoms and some “FAQs” of this skin issue.
Yeast, by definition, is a fungal infection. It loves warm, damp areas of the skin, which makes it perfect for the diaper area and mouth (also known as thrush).
Just a side note here-in nursing babies, if mom (or baby) is on antibiotics, it will be easier to pick up yeast. Yeast can be transferred to baby by mother during nursing, so if you experience sudden pain while nursing, look into thrush as a possible cause to get treatment for yourself.
DISCLAIMER-For any rash that is painful, itchy, bleeding, cracked or blistery, please seek the medical advice and treatment of your doctor or pediatrician, our advice below is just a general overview of yeast, Abby’s Lane does advise a medical professional diagnose and treat your baby for any significant rashes.
Yeast will typically present as a splotchy red rash, it can be all over the diaper area, or only in the “hot spots” on the thighs, around the rectum and in other creases. It may appear to be dry on the surface, with raised bumps accompanying it. In older babies, it may seem itchy. Yeast may also appear as a general redness in these areas, it usually will not respond to over the counter creams, and needs a prescription anti-fungal to clear it.
Yeast can also spread beyond the diaper area, up the torso and into the armpits. If your doctor has prescribed an anti-fungal, you should see a dramatic improvement within 48 hours, if you do not, please consult your doctor for either a stronger anti-fungal, or possibly a second look at the rash.
Over the counter creams for fungal infections as helpful to a point, however you run the risk of having it reform and coming back even stronger if it doesn’t work all the way (we see this with our customers somewhat frequently), so for that reason, we always advise seeking a prescription anti-fungal to get rid of it the first go around.
A few years ago I started to notice a trend in our “yeast” customers and their babies, through their doctors and dermatologists, I noticed a trend that showed babies who dealt with yeast more than once ended up also being diagnosed with mild to moderate eczema. After tracking this for a few years, we now encourage our customers who have dealt with yeast more than once to seek treatment for eczema as well. Eczema is a skin issue that will disrupt the healthy flora of the skin, making it much easier for yeast to start and grab a deep hold of the skin. Treatment is very simple, while using an anti-fungal, you will be given a steroid cream as well. Or, sometimes a “triple cream” is given, which is an anti-fungal, steroid and barrier cream all rolled into one ointment. We see this even in babies and toddlers who have not had eczema anywhere else on their body, it can be specific only to the diaper area.
For this reason, talk to your doctor about it, and see if eczema may be at play as well.
Next week we will go over some other tips and tricks to staying yeast free!
Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!
Stephanie
www.AbbysLane.com
