ALL BABIES HAVE DIAPER RASH

Having a diaper rash is a normal part of being a baby. Diaper rash is an inflammation of the skin on the buttocks, genitals, and thighs at some time in their early lives. Although a diaper rash may cause a baby discomfort and even some pain, it is rarely serious. Most cases are of short duration, lasting only three or four days. But sometimes a rash will persist, an indication that a secondary skin condition or infection has developed.

What Causes Diaper Rash?

Diaper rash is most commonly caused by the constant wetting and drying of the skin along with repetitive exposure to a variety of irritating substances . The most common source of the problem is urine and stool left in contact with the skin for too long. However, a rash can also be caused by inadequate drying of the baby's skin after a bath or a diaper that rubs back and forth. The damaged skin is susceptible to the invasion of bacteria and yeast, which can make the rash worse.

Sometimes, a baby has an allergic reaction to lotions or soaps used directly on the baby's skin or to chemicals in the laundry detergent used to clean fabric diapers.

Seborrheic dermatitis, an inflammatory skin condition that affects the oil glands, can trigger a diaper rash as can thrush, a type of yeast infection. Babies receiving antibiotics for other illnesses are particularly susceptible to thrush-related diaper rash because the drugs allow fungal growth. Eczema, an allergic skin condition, can also occur as a diaper rash in reaction to foods or other allergens. Many doctors discourage the use of baby powder because a baby can breathe it in and damage their lungs.

What Are the Treatments?

Most diaper rashes respond well to home treatments and require no medical care. If your baby's rash fails to improve after three or four days, see a pediatrician. The rash should be diagnosed to rule out the presence of a more serious infection.

Give your baby’s bottom more time in the open air without diapers on. When you’re at home, place your baby on a few cloth diapers or blankets over a waterproof pad. The more fresh air that your baby’s bottom is exposed to the faster the rash will heal. Change your baby’s diaper as soon as he or she has wet or had a bowel movement. Wash your baby’s bottom with warm water using wash clothes or cotton balls instead of baby wipes. If your baby is having a recurring problem with diaper rash try switching the type of diapers you are using. If you are using disposable diapers, try switching to cloth

For diaper rashes involving seborrheic dermatitis or eczema, doctors sometimes prescribe hydrocortisone cream. However, t he best treatment for diaper rash is prevention

How Can Diaper Rash Be Avoided?

Change diapers frequently - at least every two hours in newborns. You can space this out as baby starts to urinate less often. Change soiled diapers right away - this is a lot of trouble at first since newborns often have small, frequent stools. This will slow down as baby grows. Try different brands - if using disposables, another brand may fit a little better and cause less friction. Rinse cloth diapers - add a half-cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle. This helps remove alkaline irritants. Your diaper service can also do this. Wipe well - be sure to wipe all the stool and urine away. Use unscented wipes or just plain water - these are less irritating. You can even rinse out the wipes with water, although this takes more time. Diaper rash cream - some lucky babies don't need any. More sensitive bottoms need cream with each new diaper.

When should I call the doctor?

Call your doctor if the rash:

Has blisters or pus-filled sores.

Does not go away in 48 to 72 hours.

Gets worse

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