Diaper Rash
Diaper Rash is a very common form of irritated and inflamed skin. It is called dermatitis. A diaper rash can affect your infant as early as the first few days of their life. Generally it will be between the ages of 8 to 10 months. Some of the causes of diaper rash are:
• Irritation from stool and urine
• Introduction of new foods
• Irritation from a new product
• Bacterial or yeast (fungi) infection
• Chafing or rubbing
• Use of antibiotics
• Sensitive skin
The first sign of diaper rash is redness in the diaper area usually the buttocks, thighs and genitals. It can cause your baby to be fussy and not want their diaper to be changed. Wiping or touching the area may cause extreme discomfort to them.
Of course the best offense is a good defense. Keep your baby as clean and dry as possible. At the first sign of a rash you may want to start with some diaper rash ointment. If you do not see an improvement, if the rash seems to be getting worse, or if your child has any of the following symptoms you will need to contact your pediatrician:
• Fever
• The rash keeps getting worse
• The rash spreads beyond the genital area
• Pus or weeping discharge
• Blisters or boils
Your pediatrician may prescribe an antifungal cream or a mild hydrocortisone cream. It may take a couple of days for the rash to clear and can continue to be visible for a couple of weeks. If this treatment does not work contact your pediatrician, he will most likely recommend that you take your baby to a dermatologist.
