According to Medline Plus, a yeast infection---a medical condition called candidiasis---is a fungal infection caused by yeast on the mucous membranes or skin. Symptoms of a yeast infection in children vary based upon the location of the infection.
Genital
Both boys and girls can develop genital yeast infections. According to the Children's Hospital Boston, boys may develop a painful rash on the underside of the penis. The penis may appear red or inflamed, or you may notice that the skin on the underside of his penis is scaling. Girls may develop vaginal discharge that is white or yellow in color. Itching, redness or burning in the external area of the vagina may occur in girls with this condition, notes Children's Hospital Boston. If your child develops any of these symptoms, seek care from your pediatrician.
Oral
Children with an oral yeast infection may develop a number of symptoms within or around the mouth. If your child has an oral yeast infection---a condition also called thrush---he may complain that his mouth is painful or sore. Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center notes that you may also notice white patches on the inside of her cheeks or on her tongue. Children with this condition may also develop tiny cuts or cracks at the corners or the mouth, which may bleed or become painful. If your child exhibits any of these symptoms, contact your pediatrician.
Skin
If your child develops a yeast infection of the skin, she may develop a rash around her navel or within skin folds. According to Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, a child may also develop pimples or skin patches that may ooze a clear fluid around his navel or within skin folds. Your child may also complain of itchy or burning skin and may scratch at certain regions of the body. If your child develops any of these symptoms, seek treatment from your pediatrician.
Nails
Some children develop a yeast infection within the nail beds of the hands or feet. This condition, notes Children's Hospital Boston, may lead to swelling or pain around the child's nail beds. Some children may exhibit white or yellow nails that begin to pull away from the nail bed. If your child develops any of these symptoms, speak with your pediatrician.
