Diaper rash can happen at any time. Considered a skin inflammation, they are very common in children and occur for several reasons, including the lack of care with the baby’s hygiene.
It usually happens when the skin spends a lot of time in contact with the baby’s feces and urine, a fact caused by the humidity of the region and the constant friction with the dermis. The problem mainly affects children up to 3 years of age, and affects mainly the genitals. However, it is possible that it also affects other regions, such as the folds of the body.
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Complications
When the inflammation occurs, the affected region usually becomes red and swollen and, in more severe cases, sores and blisters may appear. When the region is not properly cleaned, fungal and bacterial infections can still occur. In addition, the skin becomes more sensitive and the discomfort becomes frequent.
Other factors can lead to the development of the problem. Diarrhea cases may need extra care, due to increased bowel movements during the day. Constantly cleaning the baby’s bottom is important to prevent diaper rash from appearing.
How to prevent
Other precautions can also prevent the appearance of diaper rash:
- Use mild soap to bathe the baby;
- Iron cotton with warm water to clean the child’s bottom;
- The diaper should not be too tight;
- Clean the genitals properly after changing diapers or while bathing;
- Apply specific ointments to the baby’s bottom after it has been cleaned. The act must happen at each diaper change;
- Always keep your skin dry.
Letting your baby’s skin breathe for a few minutes between diaper changes can also be important.
Diaper rash or dermatitis?
Although the two are inflammations that affect the skin, dermatitis and diaper rash are different problems. While in the first there is only a peeling on the skin, the second is responsible for causing itching and discomfort.
No exaggeration in the ointments
Ointments can be a great option when it comes to preventing the appearance of diaper rash. But when they are applied excessively they can cause the opposite effect. A small amount should be placed on your fingertips and then spread lightly over the baby’s skin. The process must be repeated with each diaper change.
How they can be treated
Warm water compresses can be applied to the area for about 15 minutes, three times a day. Sunbathing the affected skin area also helps in healing, but it should be done in the morning, for a maximum of 15 minutes. The problem, which also happens when the diaper is not the most suitable for the baby’s skin, can be easily reversed after changing the brand used.
When to worry
More serious problems, such as bacterial infections, can arise if the diaper rash is not treated properly. Yellowish plaques and pimples may appear on the spot. In addition, when it reaches more worrying levels, cases of fever become common. If even after all the care taken the problem does not improve, it is necessary to visit the pediatrician as soon as possible.
