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Diaper Rash--Is It Spreading?
What is diaper rash? How did this child get diaper rash? How can I make it go away? Did I do something wrong?
These are some of the most commonly asked questions from parents and caregivers regarding a condition called "diaper rash," a skin irritation in the diaper area. Diaper rash is quite common and most infants will be affected by it at some time. Diaper rash is often found on children under the following conditions:
- Babies eight-ten months old.
- Babies whose bottoms are not kept clean and dry.
- Babies who have frequent stools (especially if left unchanged through the night).
- Babies who begin to eat solid food.
- Babies on antibiotics.
Diaper rash occurs when chemicals in the urine or stool begin irritating the skin, especially if the diaper is left on too long. Changes in the digestive system can lead to irritation as children begin to eat solid foods. Chemicals in the cloth diaper such as leftover soap and fabric softener, or chemicals added to disposable diapers to increase absorbency may also lead to skin irritation.
Recognizing diaper rash
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), diaper rash usually begins as redness or small bumps on the lower abdomen, genitals, buttocks and thigh folds. With care, this type of rash usually will clear in three to four days. Parents should contact the child's pediatrician if the rash persists after three days.
Rashes may indicate other conditions or diseases. For example, yeast infections also can cause a rash on the lower abdomen, genitals and thigh folds, but rarely on the buttocks. If the rash could be a condition other than diaper rash, a physician should be contacted.
Treating diaper rash
The best treatment and preventive measures for diaper rash are frequent diaper changes and cleaning. Pre-moistened wipes can be used, but may cause further irritation. Soap and water is usually the best choice.
Air is a great healer. When possible, slip the diaper off and allow the child to be diaper free for a while to help heal the irritated area. A generation ago, talcum powder was a common treatment for diaper rash. Many health specialists do not recommend use of powders because they may be inhaled and cause respiratory distress.
Even with the best of care, babies may develop a diaper rash. Parents and caregivers should not feel at fault. Remember, the most important thing is to recognize diaper rash, treat it correctly, and seek a physician's care if the rash persists or spreads.
By Amy S. Hood, Infant/Toddler Specialist
& Janie Sailors, RN, Health Specialist, Region IV, Head Start Quality Improvement Centers Western Kentucky University Bowling Green, KY
Resources
The American Academy of Pediatrics, 141 Northwest Point Blvd., Elk Grove, IL 60007-1098; 847-228-5005; www.aap.org.
The National Resource Center for Health & Safety in Childcare has a number of resources on their web site, nrc.uchsc.edu.
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