Diaper rash is any kind of rash that is found in your baby’s diaper area.
In mild cases, the skin may be red and tender but a more severe diaper rash would be painful and have open sores. Mild cases clear up within 3-4 days with home treatment but severe cases may need medical treatment.
Diaper rashes are the most common skin condition seen in infants. More than half of them between the ages of 4-15 months have a diaper rash at least once in two months.
Types
The different types of diaper rash may include;
1. Irritant diaper rash: Also known as diaper dermatitis, it occurs when your baby’s diaper area has too much moisture and/or prolonged contact with urine and stool. It is the most common type.
2. Candida diaper rash: This type is caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida. This fungus is found naturally in your baby’s digestive tract.
3. Bacterial diaper rash: Rarely, certain types of bacteria (Staph or Strep) can cause this skin condition.
4. Allergic diaper rash: If your baby has sensitive skin, it may have an allergic reaction to ingredients in certain diapers, wipers, and/or diaper creams.
Symptoms
In mild cases, your baby may have slightly reddened skin around their thighs, genitals and buttocks,
The area may be warm to the touch. The rash itself may just a few spots or it may cover the diaper area entirely.
In more severe cases, the rash becomes painful and has open blisters or sores and if it gets infected, the rash may turn bright red and the skin around the area will get swollen.
At this time, you need to see your child’s pediatrician.
Risk factors
Diaper rash occurs more frequently when your baby:
- Doesn’t stay clear and dry
- Poops frequently, especially when the feces stay overnight in their diaper
- Has diarrhea
- Begins to eat solid foods
- Is taking antibiotics, or you are nursing your baby and taking antibiotics at the same time
Treatment/ Prevention
These little tips can help relieve your child’s diaper rash
1. Always keep the diaper area clean and dry.
2. Change your baby’s diapers frequently
3. Check the size of your child’s diaper: Wearing the wrong diaper size can increase the chances of getting a diaper rash and make it harder for an active rash to heal.
4. Applying soothing creams: You can use pastes or barrier creams that contain zinc to soothe the skin and prevent contact with feces and other irritants.
5. You can also consider alternative home remedies like coconut oil, yogurt, breastmilk, and Epsom salt, etc.
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Dr. Favvy
Disclaimer
The information on this blog is just for educational purposes only.
It should not be used as a replacement for the medical care and advice of your child’s pediatrician.
Always consult your pharmacist before giving your child any drug.
It contains helpful information for moms. All the best in your journey of caring for the young.
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