Diaper rash is a very common skin condition and the spate of its
occurrence in babies shows that bottom care in quite essential. The part
of the baby's body which is covered with diaper is most susceptible to
it, that is, the lower abdomen, area around the anus and genitals, the
folds of the skin in the groin. Major irritants are digestive enzymes
and bacteria present in the stool and the ammonia created by the
bacterial action on urine. When the diapers are not changed frequently
enough, the prolonged contact with these irritants makes the skin red
with small bumpy pimples and leaves the baby extremely uncomfortable and
irked.
The skin which is already affected by diaper rash allows
yeast called Candida to thrive. The heightened numbers of this yeast in
the stool add to the baby's woes by aggravating the skin infection.
Candida rashes are mainly solid red, enveloped by bright red bumps.
Other skin bacteria like staphylococcus also cause a very menacing type of rash referred to as scalded skin syndrome which results in red skin, with more prominent blister like eruptions
The first and
foremost step in safeguarding your baby from this rash is to change
diapers frequently. Every time the baby needs a change allow him some
naked bottom time after cleaning him thoroughly. For cleaning use plain
lukewarm water and a soft washcloth, if soap is used it should be the
baby soap which is hypo allergic, devoid of any detergents. Dry the area
properly after cleansing and apply petroleum jelly or any other
ointment containing zinc oxide. Not all brands might work for your baby
so if needed, switch brands to find the right one. Lastly avoid
disposable diapers or plastic pants over diapers; these trap moisture
not allowing the baby's skin to breathe.
Generally ointments
available over the counter should suffice for curing the rash, however
if it persists or exacerbates with pus filled blisters or sores, the
baby's sleep pattern he is disturbed and is feverish, consult your
doctor immediately.
Learn more about newborn baby care.
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