Diaper rash is a kind of contact dermatitis that happens commonly in babies. Contact dermatitis is a rash that is caused when the skin meets a substance that can produce an allergic or irritant skin response. Diaper rash can be mistaken for parental neglect, but it is not a sign of parental neglect.
Diaper rash can become infected by the bacteria or yeast on the skin and can be treated with the use of topical antibiotic ointments. While there is a broad category that causes diaper rash, the most common one is contact irritation.
Causes of diaper rash
- Wetness. Diapers can leave some moisture on the skin. If urine mixes with the bacteria from the stool, it breaks down to ammonia which can irritate the skin. Children that have frequent bowel movements are more prone to diaper rash.
Usually, a diaper rash would clear up within three (3) to four (4) days without a visit to the doctor. - Chafing and sensitivity to chemicals. The cause of the diaper rash may be because of the diaper rubbing against the skin and especially if the child is sensitive to chemicals like fragrances in disposable diapers or the laundry detergent used to wash a cloth diaper. It could also be due to a product that you use during every change.
- New foods. Diaper rash is also common when the child tries out new food or is beginning to eat solid foods. Changes in food can change the composition of the stool but there are acids in certain foods that can be troublesome for some children. A new food may also increase the frequency of bowel movements of the child.
- A bacterial or yeast infection. Because the diaper area is warm and moist, it makes it ideal for bacteria or yeast to flourish which can irritate the skin and cause a rash, especially in the cracks and folds of the skin.
- Antibiotics. This is because yeast infections can occur due to the antibiotics killing the healthy bacteria that help yeast keep in check as well as the harmful bacteria that are causing the illness. Antibiotics can also lead to diarrhea, which can contribute to diaper rash.
Usually, a diaper rash would clear up within three (3) to four (4) days without a visit to the doctor. However, if there are indications of infection then you should see the doctor.
Signs of infection
- Blisters
- Pimples filled with pus
- Draining yellow patches
- Open sores
Your doctor might suggest a topical antibiotic ointment or an oral antibiotic for your child. If the diaper rash was brought about by a yeast infection, however, your doctor will suggest an over-the-counter or prescription antifungal ointment or cream. Get in touch with the doctor if your child suddenly develops a fever or if the rash doesn’t go away after several days of home treatment.
If diaper rash occurs, you can manage it at home to help your child’s skin heal:
- Keep your child clean and dry. Change his diapers frequently.
- Rinse the diaper area at every diaper change. Avoid using wipes have fragrance or alcohol.
- Pat your skin dry and avoid rubbing.
- Use an ointment that creates a barrier on the skin to protect your skin from exposure to stool and urine.
- Put on the diaper loosely or use a diaper that’s a bit larger to allow better air circulation.
- If the weather is hot or humid, leave the diaper off every day as air exposure can speed up the recuperation process.
- Allow the child to sleep without a diaper.
FACT CHECK
https://www.medicinenet.com/diaper_rash/article.htm
https://www.webmd.com/parenting/diaper-rash-treatment#1
https://www.healthline.com/health/home-remedies-diaper-rash