NetWellness is a global, community service providing quality, unbiased health information from our partner university faculty. NetWellness is commercial-free and does not accept advertising.
Monday, March 10, 2014
Newborn and Infant Care
What does white tongue mean?
My baby of 9 months has a cold and now his tongue is coated white. What does it mean?
A tongue which is white in an infant is usually caused by one of three things:
1.) Milk tongue- just a bit of milk residue on the tongue
2.) Thrush- a common fungal infection of the mouth, more common if taking antibiotics
3.) Mild dehydration- a decrease of fluids in the baby's system.
The first item needs no attention. #2 only needs to be addressed if causing the infant discomfort with feeding or some feel if it has spread to the inside of the cheeks. #3 may occur if the infant has decreased their oral intake due to a stuffy nose, increased sleep or overall fussiness. This cause should definitely be seen by your health care provider.
Sarah Sauntry, RN, MS, CPNP-PC
Assistant Professor of Clinical Nursing
College of Nursing
University of Cincinnati