Overview
Diaper rash is the term given to skin rashes in the diaper area that are caused by various skin disorders, or irritants. This is a common problem in infants and young children, but can also be seen in persons who are incontinent or paralysed.
Almost every baby will experience diaper rash at least once during their first 3 years of life. This is the time when the baby is still sitting most of the time, and the introduction to new foods can change the acidity of bowel movements.
Symptoms
Recognizing a diaper rash is fairly simple. The rash is found on the skin under the diaper area. The skin can be red and irritated. It may be all over the genital area and bottom, or only in a specific area, and not necessarily to be found in the skin folds. For little boys, they may have an inflamed penis. Also your child may show increased discomfort at diaper changing time.
Causes
The primary causes of diaper rash can be classified as follows:
– Friction: when sensitive baby skin is rubbed by wet diapers
– Irritation: from irritants such as urine, faeces, cleaning agents
– Candidal infection: fungal or yeast infection
– Allergic reaction: from diaper wipes, laundry and bath soaps, diaper chemicals and perfumes
– Seborrhea: an oily, yellow-coloured rash that may also be seen on face, head and neck
Solutions
If you are trying to treat a diaper rash at home with no signs of improvement after four days, you should see your family doctor as it may be a yeast infection or other dermatitis. However, the majority of diaper rashes can effectively be treated at home:
– Change diapers more often
– Skin should be cleaned with a mild soap, and allowed to air dry or lightly patted dry
– Avoid scrubbing or rubbing the skin
– Avoid using plastic pants at this time
– Certain foods may worsen the condition and should be avoided
– Stop using harsh soaps and detergents that may be causing the problem
– Consider switching to cloth diapers