Diaper Rash Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Definition
Diaper rash is a condition that is often experienced by babies, related to the use of diapers. This skin disorder is characterized by the skin in the area covered by the diaper that looks reddish and can peel.
Diaper Rash Symptoms
In diaper rash, redness of the skin occurs limited to the area of the skin covered by the diaper. Apart from redness, the skin can also appear to have spots like pimples or look peeling.
In some cases, the rash can be itchy or sore. Not infrequently this makes babies with diaper rash look more fussy.
Diaper Rash Reason
Causes of diaper rash include irritation, infection, and allergies.
The use of diapers that are too long causes the urine or feces contained in the diapers to be in continuous contact with the baby’s skin. This will eventually cause skin irritation.
Diaper rash due to infection can occur because urine causes the acidity of the baby’s skin to change so that bacteria and fungi easily infect. In addition, wet diapers that are never replaced cause the skin to become moist so that germs can live and multiply.
Not all babies fit all types of diapers. Having certain allergies to diaper materials can cause allergic reactions on the skin and cause diaper rash.
Diaper rash due to irritation will generally heal within 3–5 days after changing the diaper more often. If after 5 days, the diaper rash is still there, then the possible cause is a fungal or bacterial infection.
Diaper Rash Diagnosis
Generally, doctors do not need to carry out special examinations to determine the diagnosis of diaper rash. By looking at the condition of the skin, usually this disease can be identified. However, if accompanied by fever, blood tests can be done.
In addition, if the doctor suspects that diaper rash is caused by a viral or bacterial infection, the doctor may take a sample from the affected area of the skin for gram staining and examination under a microscope.
Diaper Rash Treatment
To treat diaper rash, change your baby’s diaper as soon as he urinates or has a bowel movement. Diapers should be changed at least every two hours. Before changing diapers, clean baby’s skin under running water, then gently wipe skin until completely dry.
Meanwhile, you can consider not using diapers for a few days. This helps the baby’s skin stay dry and can ‘breathe’ properly thereby accelerating its healing.
Creams containing zinc oxide or petroleum can be used to soften the skin. If there is a fungal infection or bacterial infection, the doctor will give an antifungal cream or antibiotics.
Diaper Rash Prevention
The most important diaper rash prevention is keeping the baby’s skin clean, dry, and healthy. The method:
- Change diapers as soon as they get wet with urine or feces, or every 2 hours.
- Avoid using perfumed wet wipes because they contain chemicals that can cause allergies.
- When changing diapers, occasionally wash the buttocks and the area covered by the diaper using clean water.
- Make sure the skin is completely dry before putting on a new diaper.
- Babies who have sensitive skin can use a cream that contains zinc to prevent diaper rash.