Diaper rash (diaper dermatitis) is the most common skin problem in babies and young children. The skin may look red, raw, scalded, or burned. A diaper rash is uncomfortable. But in most cases, it's not a serious problem.
Diaper rash is usually caused by the skin staying wet, the diaper rubbing the skin, and skin contact with urine and stool. It often occurs in babies who sleep for many hours so the wet diaper is on them longer. Diaper rash may also be caused by a fungal infection or bacterial infection.
Adults may get diaper rash if they can't wash the genital area well or if they use incontinence briefs. These briefs can cause skin irritation. Or a person may be allergic to the perfumes in the material.
A diaper rash may also be a sign of abuse or neglect.
Most diaper rashes clear up within 2 to 3 days when treated at home. The rash usually clears up when diapers are changed more often, the skin is carefully cleaned, and over-the-counter ointments are put on the area. A diaper rash that becomes raw, oozes fluid, or bleeds is harder to treat.
Diaper rash is skin irritation around the thighs, genitals, buttocks, or abdomen; the rash is red and may look like the skin has been burned or scalded. Diaper rash is the most common skin problem in babies and young children, but it can occur at any age if diapers or incontinence briefs are worn.
Most of these rashes are caused by the diaper rubbing against the skin, moisture, chemicals in the diaper, or bacteria in the baby's urine or stool.
Almost all babies develop diaper rash at one time or another. Usually simple changes in the diapering or cleaning routine will eliminate the rash. Occasionally a yeast infection causes the rash. If your baby or child has a yeast infection, check with your doctor before you treat it with any product made for an adult.
Diaper rash is a red rash in the diaper area (around the genitals, buttocks, upper thighs, or lower belly). It may look like the skin has been burned or scalded. If the rash is severe, it may blister and peel or become raw, ooze fluid, or bleed.
If the skin in the diaper area is very irritated, the doctor may recommend a mild steroid cream to reduce inflammation. An antifungal treatment may be prescribed for a rash caused by a yeast infection. If the rash is caused by a bacterial infection, the doctor may prescribe an antibiotic cream or pills.
A doctor can usually diagnose diaper rash by asking some questions and looking at the rash. But most diaper rashes will go away with home treatment. A doctor visit may not be needed unless the rash continues or gets worse.
Home treatment is generally all that's needed for most cases of diaper rash. At the first sign of a diaper rash, try the following steps:
If the diaper rash doesn't get better after several diaper changes, try the following steps.
When treating a diaper rash:
Diaper rash (diaper dermatitis) is skin irritation in the diaper area. It's usually caused by wearing wet or dirty diapers too long, which lets urine and stool irritate the skin. Diaper rash is common in young children, but it can occur at any age if diapers or incontinence briefs are worn.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
©2011-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated