As just about any parent knows, a diaper rash is a very common occurrence in babies and toddlers. Symptoms can include redness and a general feeling of discomfort, though a diaper rash usually isn't something to worry about too much. A severe diaper rash, on the other hand, can lead to other problems such as a bacterial or fungal infection. Signs of a serious diaper rash include blisters or sores, blood or other fluid oozing from the area, and severe pain.
A diaper rash can be caused by a variety of things. One of the most common causes of a severe diaper rash is not changing the baby's diaper enough, which allows the contents of the diaper to sit on the skin. Prolonged exposure to urine and feces can cause an irritation of the skin. This is especially true if the child has diarrhea, or has just switched to solid foods.
Diapers should be changed often to prevent a rash. A good rule of thumb is to change a child's diaper as soon as it is wet or dirty. Experts recommend that a diaper should be checked at least once every two hours. Although it may be a bit difficult or messy, many experts also recommend leaving a diaper off for five to ten minutes at a time after every changing.
Another common cause of irritation that can lead to a severe diaper rash is the friction between the diaper and the baby's skin. With this type of rash, the area of the skin that the diaper is rubbing on can become quite irritated. This is sometimes known as a friction rash, and it is often caused by the diaper being too tight or ill fitting. Parents who suspect their child's rash is caused by friction are encouraged to buy larger diapers, or even just a different brand.
Some diaper rashes can be caused by a reaction to chemicals. These can be the perfumes, dyes, and other ingredients in diapers, wipes, and laundry detergent. Many times, these rashes can be cleared up within a few days by eliminating or switching these products. Wipes can be very irritating, especially if the child is suffering from a severe diaper rash. Instead, parents and care givers can use a washcloth dampened with warm water.
There are numerous creams and ointments available on the market today to cure and prevent diaper rash. These thick concoctions often contain soothing ingredients, such as zinc oxide. Not only do many of these creams soothe and condition the skin, but they also serve as a barrier to protect a baby's sensitive skin from urine and feces.
A severe diaper rash that does not go away within a few days of proper treatment may be caused by yeast, which thrives is warm, moist environments. A yeast infection can be identified by small white bumps. An anti-fungal diaper rash ointment is usually recommended to get rid of this type of rash.
