Nappy rash can make your baby uncomfortable and cantankerous. Read on to find causes of nappy rash and its treatment.
Nappy Rash
Nappy rash, a common problem faced by infants, is characterized by inflammation of the skin in the nappy area. Stale urine and faeces accumulated in the nappy make the baby's skin become sore. Irritation in the area surrounding the nappy is another indication of nappy rash. As a result, spots or blotches (red or pink in color) may appear in the affected area, thereby, aggravating the problem. While most of the nappy rashes are mild and can be treated with simple skincare routine, the pain or discomfort experienced by the baby makes it a problem that needs to be fixed as soon as possible. Learn about the causes and the possible treatment of nappy rash in the following lines.
Causes of Nappy Rash
- When a nappy, with stale urine and faeces, is worn by a child for a long time, the waste products are converted into ammonia, a chemical that can irritate the infant's skin, making it become sore and inflamed.
- Fungal infection is another leading cause of nappy rash. In case your baby's skin is damp for a long time, it can lead to the growth of fungus known as candida. The baby's skin starts reacting to the production of ammonia. When it is exposed to the fungus, the problem is even more aggravated.
- Apart from the above causes, nappy rash can also be a problem due to eczema. If your child is already suffering from eczema, the skin around the nappy area can become dry and sore. Moreover, he/she will not be able to find relief from nappy rash even after frequent nappy changes.
- The red and scaly skin of the baby is caused by seborroeic dermatitis, which is another cause of nappy rash. This condition is commonly seen in baby aged between two weeks to six months.
- Bacterial infection is another prevalent cause of nappy rash. Check whether your baby's nappy is unhygienic, or infected with bacteria.
- Allergic reaction to a particular substance, such as grooming products including soap, fragrances, detergents, oils, and powders can trigger nappy rash. The condition may even lead to irritation and inflammation on the affected part of the body.
Baby Nappy Rash Treatment
- Change the nappy of your baby regularly. Be sure to replace the spoiled nappy with a new one, whenever your baby defecates. Even if a nappy can soak the urine for a long time, it is better to change it frequently.
- Leave your baby to play around without wearing a nappy, as long as possible. He/she would feel better without the nappy. Moreover, the rash will be healed quickly.
- Do not forget to follow a skincare routine for your baby. Clean the genital areas of the baby, every time after he/she defecates. Allow the area to dry completely, before putting on a new diaper.
- You may cover your baby's nappy area with a thin layer of protective ointment or a baby powder. Do this only after ensuring that your baby is not allergic to such products.
- Allow room for air to circulate in the nappy area. Therefore, do not tighten the diaper too much. Nappies should fit somewhat loosely, so that the area of the body is allowed to 'breathe'.
- A normal nappy rash may continue for two to three days. If the condition persists for more than five days, consult a doctor and get a medicine prescribed for the same.
