A diaper rash refers to the red, irritated area of the skin below the diaper area. The rash may appear all over the baby's bottom, genital area or certain parts of the skin.
This usually occurs in children below two years but it may also strike paralyzed adults. The majority of victims are nine to 12 months old.
diaper rash may be caused by friction due to wet diapers rubbing against the baby's sensitive skin or irritants like feces, urine or cleaning agents. It may also be triggered by a fungal or yeast infection following antibiotic use or an allergic reaction to diapers, baby wipes, soap, lotion or the elastic band in plastic pants.
A simple diaper rash will disappear on its own provided the area is kept clean and dry. If the rash persists for a week and is accompanied by other symptoms like diarrhea or fever, see a doctor at once.
Cleanliness is the best cure for diaper rash. To shorten its duration and make your baby comfortable, follow these practical tips from WebMD:
Diapers should be changed more often than normal.
Skin should be washed with a very mild soap and air dried or lightly patted dry.
The skin should be cleaned, but avoid any rough scrubbing, which could lead to further skin irritation. After cleaning, the skin should be exposed to air, leaving the diaper off for several hours if possible.
Avoid using plastic pants during this time.
Certain foods may seem to worsen the rash. If this is the case, avoid these foods until the rash has cleared.
If the rash is caused by a contact or allergic dermatitis, stop using any new soaps or detergents that may be causing the rash.
If the rash appears to be caused by a candidal infection, it may be treated with topical, over-the-counter antifungal creams.
Topical steroids can be used for diaper rash caused by allergic, atopic, or seborrheic causes but should not be used for fungal infections.
Zinc oxide may also be effective.
"Diaper rash usually goes away on its own. In addition, a child will stop having episodes of diaper rash once potty-training has been successfully completed and the child no longer wears a diaper," concluded WebMD.
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Sharon Bell is an avid health and fitness enthusiast and published author. Many of her insightful articles can be found at the premier online news magazine http://www.HealthLinesNews.com
