Nappy rash

Nappy rash, also known as diaper rash, is a type of contact dermatitis caused by different types of skin irritants like urine and feces. It is one of the most common issues in newborns and toddlers and the top cause of their unexplained crying. Nappy rash is a type of rash that appears around the nappy area and, if left untreated, may involve the surrounding area. It commonly affects the skin folds of the buttocks, as shown in the picture. You can easily prevent this condition by keeping the skin dry and clean.

 

Nappy rash

. Causes :

Few of the main causes of nappy rash are given below

1. Wet buttocks:

Prolonged exposure to urine or poop due to the reason that   pamper or nappy is not changed on time can result in nappy rash. Urine and feces together, when in contact with skin for a long time, can break down the skin’s protective barrier.

2. Fungal infection

Prolonged exposure of skin to moisture can also result in a  yeast infection, producing a nappy rash.

3. Bacterial infection

Urine and feces both have a lot of bacteria in them. Prolonged exposure to bacteria can result in infection, irritation, and can produce a nappy rash.

4. Friction

If the cloth nappy or pamper is too tight for a baby, then that ill-fitting can also result in irritation, redness, swelling and rash.

5. Irritants

As we all know, the skin of babies is very sensitive. Anything like any soap, body wash or powder, sometimes some pamper brands also have some chemicals in them that can cause irritation to babies’ skin and can produce inflammation and irritation.

 

. Preventions :

As I discussed earlier in my article, this condition can easily be avoided by providing proper care to the baby and keeping him clean.

1. Keep the baby dry and prevent prolonged exposure to moisture by frequently changing nappies or pampers.
2. Always use scent-free products for babies as their skin is sensitive, and any type of fragrance can cause irritation. Mostly, mothers apply a lot of powder to the buttocks of babies, which can cause severe irritation. Also, try to use pampers that are fragrance-free, of good quality, and specially made for extra-sensitive skin
3. Also, keep your child without pamper for some time during the day so that the skin can breathe.
4. Wash and clean your baby properly after he poops. Mostly, I have seen mothers avoiding proper washing and using simple or wet tissues for cleaning purposes, which is unhygienic and inappropriate for your baby.

 

Treatment :

1. Barrier creams

Mostly, creams that contain zinc oxide can easily treat their condition. Other than that, water-resistant products like petroleum jelly and vaseline are also very useful. Some pictures of the products with zinc oxide are shared.

Apply a thick layer of these products on the skin so that the urine and feces do not come in contact with the skin. In this way, further irritation can be avoided.

2. Nappy changes

Frequent nappy changes help in treating the issue, but one should avoid nappies during the time of rashes as it can further irritate the skin.

3. Warm baths

Wash with lukewarm water reduces pain, inflammation and irritation. It also reduces the risk of more infection and gives a soothing effect to the skin.

. Conclusion :

I will conclude this article on “Nappy rash” by saying that this condition is preventable and easily manageable if proper attention is given in a timely manner. However, one should always seek a doctors’ help if rashes do not resolve in 10 days by using medication and giving proper care. Also, contact your doctor if the child develops a fever, pus-filled blisters or stops feeding.

 

FAQs

1. What is the best cream/ointment for a Nappy rash?

All the ointments that have zinc oxide in them work best for Nappy rash.

 

2. Can this condition also appear in females with periods after wearing pads?

Yes, definitely. In that case, we call it contact dermatitis.

 

3. Is Vaseline and petroleum jelly safe for babies?

Yes, they are generally safe for babies.