Diaper rash is something every parent is going to have to face at some point of their parenting journey. Your baby will grow out of diapers around anywhere between 18 to 30 months of age. But before then, you need to know how to prevent diaper rash, and if it occurs, how to deal with it.
Overview
Diaper rash is a very common yet avoidable occurrence on your baby’s bottom, whether you use cloth or disposable diapers. It is characterized by inflamed skin (dermatitis) which looks like patches of red skin.
Diaper rash is usually the result of wet or infrequently changed diapers. However, skin sensitivity and rubbing could also cause it. It generally affects babies, but people who have to wear diapers can suffer from it as well.
This condition is really annoying for the babies as they always feel uncomfortable and keep crying. Simple home remedies can be used to cure the condition completely. Air drying, ointments, and more frequent diaper changing are some of the tried and tested measures to get rid of diaper rash.
Symptoms
- Skin signs – The main symptom of it is red skin in the diaper area – buttocks, genitals, and thighs.
- Changes in disposition – The baby may look to be more uncomfortable than normal days. The discomfort increases during diaper changes. The baby may also cry when the diaper region is touched or washed.
Causes Of Diaper Rash
Keeping on a wet diaper for a long time isn’t the only reason behind diaper rash. There are many more reasons that include:
- Irritation from stool and urine – Baby’s sensitive skin gets irritated if it stays in contact with urine or stool for a long time. The chances of a rash increase if the baby is having frequent bowel movements or diarrhea because stool is more irritating than urine.
- Rubbing – You should avoid dressing the kid in tight-fitting diapers or clothing as it keeps rubbing against the skin which leads to a rash.
- Irritation from a new product – Your baby may develop a rash due to new products like bleach or fabric softener, baby wipes, detergent, disposable diapers, etc. Baby lotion and baby powder ingredients may also cause this problem.
- Bacterial or fungal infection – A simple skin infection can go on to infect the surrounding areas also. The diaper-covered area is a great breeding ground for bacteria or yeast as it gets warm and moist due to usually being covered.
- Introducing new food – As soon as babies start having solid food, the texture, and content of their stool change. This adds to the possibility of diaper rash development. It may also increase the frequency of stool, which can cause it. Even while having breast milk, the babies can develop diaper rash in response to the food the mom has eaten.
- Sensitive skin – Babies who already have skin conditions like atopic dermatitis or seborrheic dermatitis are more prone to it.
- Use of antibiotics – Babies on antibiotics are also more likely to suffer from diaper rash. Antibiotics may kill bacteria that keep yeast growth in check, resulting in diaper rash. Babies who consume breast milk may also develop it if their mother is taking antibiotics [3].
Prevention Of Diaper Rash
Keeping the diaper area clean and dry is the best option to rule out the possibility of it. However, there are some more ways to keep this skin problem at bay. Have a look –
- Change diapers regularly
- Clean your baby’s bottom with warm water every time you change a dirty diaper
- Either dry the skin gently with a dry and clean towel or let it air dry
- Always ensure that the diaper isn’t overly tight
- Leave your baby’s bottom without a diaper as long as possible
- Keep gently rubbing a doctor-recommended ointment on the bottom area regularly
- Wash your hands thoroughly every time after changing the diapers
Home Remedies For Diaper Rash
- Keep the diaper area clean and dry – To get rid of the diaper rash, it is extremely important to change the diaper as soon as it gets wet or soiled. It means you may have to wake up at night just to change the diaper. After cleaning and drying the skin, you should apply a cream, paste, or ointment.
- Increasing airflow – Ensuring as much air as possible in the diaper region can expedite the healing process.
- Applying ointment, paste, cream or lotion – There are many medications available without prescription for it. However, you must consult with your pediatrician before administering any ointment or medicine.
- Bathing daily – Until the rash gets clear, keep giving your baby a bath every day. You should use warm water with mild. fragrance-free soap.
When Should You See A Doctor?
If the diaper rash doesn’t disappear in a few days despite the home treatment, you should consult with a pediatrician. Have your child examined if the rash:
- Looks severe
- Doesn’t subside despite home treatment
- Accompanies burning or pain while urinating or passing stool
- Bleeds, itches, or oozes
- Is accompanied by a fever
Sometimes, there may be a need for prescription medications to help ease the baby’s discomfort. A doctor may prescribe:
- A mild steroid cream
- An antifungal cream
- Topical or oral antibiotics
You should not give any medication or apply any ointment unless it is prescribed by a pediatrician or a dermatologist. It is worth mentioning that diaper rashes sometimes do not disappear easily, and may come back repeatedly.
Conclusion
Diaper rash may sound like a common issue, but it takes your and your child’s life completely off track, as it requires extra care and attention. So, it is better to prevent this problem with extra cautiousness. Moreover, consulting a pediatrician is the best way to get rid of this problem. You can get the convenience of telemedicine consultations with experts on the ImmunifyMe app.
FAQs On Diaper Rash
What Cures Diaper Rash Fast?
Over-the-counter ointments or petroleum jelly like Vaseline applied around the diaper area eases the diaper rash.
Are Diaper Rashes Painful?
If not dealt with immediately, diaper rashes can turn into a severe painful infection. Sometimes the baby may even get a fever. At such times, a visit to the doctor is recommended.
How Do You Get Rid Of Bad Diaper Rash?
Keep the diaper clean and dry. During the day, keep the baby without a diaper on a dry towel. This will help to keep the diaper area dry. When changing the diaper, wipe the area with a soft, dry napkin dipped in a little water. Baby wipes will also do, just don’t wipe the area too hard.
When Should I Be Concerned About Diaper Rash?
Look for the following symptoms: blisters on the diaper area, fever, redness in the area, and/or a septic discharge. This is when you need to be concerned and visit a doctor.
References – [1] – COMPOST ON AND METHOD FOR TREATING DIAPER RASH [2] – Diaper rash: causes and cures [3] – FORMULATION AND METHOD FOR PREVENTING ANTIBIOTICS-INDUCED DIAPER RASH