Most babies get diaper rashes at some point during the course of their own growth and development no matter how careful you are. Luckily, most cases of diaper rash can be treated at home.
Diaper rash is usually caused by:
– Extended or prolonged exposure to feces and urine, especially when they have diarrhoea
– Tight diapers and excessive chafing and friction between your baby’s skin and the diaper
– Fungal or bacterial infections
– Allergic reaction to components of baby wipes, diapers, baby oils and lotions.
– Changes in diet, like introduction of solid food to their diet
– Sleeping in poopy diapers
– Antibiotics
The causes of diaper may differ from baby to baby. You should consult your pediatrician if you are unsure.
Signs and Symptoms of Diaper Rash
Skin in the diaper area, such as buttocks, thighs, and genitals, may appear tender and red. Babies may cry or become fussy while changing diapers or washing their diaper region.
You may notice various skin changes,such as redness, flaky skin, and dry skin, depending on the causative factors. Skin bleeding, fever, unusual or severe rashes may indicate severe infections or skin conditions.
Diaper Rash Treatments
I. The first step in combating diaper rash is to keep your baby’s skin clean and dry.
II. Wash your hands before and after every diaper change to reduce the risk of accidentally infecting your baby with contaminants.
III. Check your baby’s diaper often, and change it as soon as it gets wet or soiled. Wet diapers provide breeding ground for bacteria.
IV. If you use wipes, choose mild ones. Try to avoid those with fragrances or alcohol. Or use a clean, soft washcloth.
V. Be sure the area is completely clean and dry before putting on a fresh diaper.
VI. Try a squirt bottle to wash the area well, without rubbing sore skin.
VII. Let your baby go diaper-free as much as you can. Airing out the diaper zone helps their skin heal faster. To avoid a mess, do it right after a bowel movement. Or you could use larger diapers till the rashes fade away.
VIII. Change the type of diaper. If you use cloth, try disposables. Or try a different brand of disposable diaper. If you wash your own cloth diapers, change your detergent. Choose a mild detergent.
IX. If it is caused by food, alter the diet; in the case of breastfed babies, change the maternal diet
You should call your doctor if:
– The rash gets worse or doesn’t respond to treatment in 2-3 days
– Your baby has a fever or seems sluggish
– You see yellow, fluid-filled bumps (pustules) and honey-colored crusty areas. This might be a bacterial infection that requires antibiotics.
– You notice symptoms of a yeast infection such as a swollen red rash with white scales and lesions, small red pimples outside of the diaper area or redness in the folds of your baby’s skin.
