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Warning-sign checks

Thrush - children and adults: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services if there is trouble breathing, swelling that affects the airway, collapse, severe confusion or difficulty waking.

    These symptoms are not typical of uncomplicated thrush and need immediate assessment.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek prompt medical assessment if a baby is feeding much less, has fewer wet nappies or appears unusually sleepy.

    These can be signs that the baby is not getting enough fluid.

    Get urgent help for severe pain or difficulty swallowing, rapidly worsening swelling, spreading redness, fever with significant illness, or signs of dehydration.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange routine medical advice if:

    • This is your or your child’s first suspected episode
    • A baby has mouth patches or feeding discomfort
    • You are pregnant or breastfeeding
    • Symptoms do not improve after treatment or return soon afterwards
    • Thrush keeps recurring
    • You have diabetes or a weakened immune system
    • There is unusual discharge, a strong smell, pelvic pain, sores or bleeding
    • Mouth patches cannot be wiped away or remain after treatment

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Thrush - children and adults. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.