What is Diaper Rash?
Diaper rash is a condition which causes skin irritation in the diaper-covered region. It is also called diaper dermatitis, napkin or nappy dermatitis. Contact irritation is the most common cause. While diaper rash generally affects infants and toddlers, it affects any individual who wears a diaper.
Diaper rashes are likely to cause a combination of factors such as wetness, friction, and the presence of micro-organisms from urine and faeces. Many folds and creases are present in that skin area, and inefficient cleansing results in diaper rash.
An acidic skin surface is necessary for the maintenance of normal microflora. This acidic surface provides anti-microbial protection against pathogenic bacteria and yeast. Babies who have had diarrhoea have increased the incidence of diaper rash because faecal lipase and protease activity increases.
Wearing diapers increases the wetness of the skin and pH. The skin’s long-standing wetness makes the skin’s outer layer soft with disruption of intercellular lamellae. This increased dampness, lack of exposure to air, exposure to irritants and increased skin friction break the skin barrier.
Who is more prone to get affected by Diaper Rash?
Rashes can develop as early as the first week of life.
Frequency increases between 9-12 months of age.
Individuals of any race can be affected by diaper rash.
What are the causes of Diaper Rash?
• Prolonged exposure to urine or faeces that is retained in a diaper irritates the baby’s sensitive skin.
• As the baby begins to eat solid foods, the content of stool changes, however increasing the likelihood of diaper rash.
• The disposable diaper or a detergent or fabric softener used to launder cloth diapers can irritate a baby’s sensitive skin.
• Fungal infection.
• Babies who are suffering from atopic dermatitis or eczema may be more likely to develop diaper rashes
• Most rashes are caused by friction that develops when skin is rubbed by wet diapers.
What are the signs and symptoms of diaper rash?
• Bright red rashes
Red scaly patches on the genitalia.
• Pimples, ulcers, blisters, large bumps, or pus-filled sores
• It may or may not involve skin folds
What treatment is advised for diaper rash?
The best way to treat diaper rash is to keep the baby’s skin as clean and dry as possible. If diaper rash still persists during home treatment, the doctor may prescribe an anti-fungal cream or a mild hydrocortisone cream.
What is the prognosis of Diaper Rash?
Diaper rashes respond well to treatment
What are the commonly indicated Homeopathic remedies for Diaper rash?
• Arsenicum album
• Elladonna
• Borax veneta
• Graphites
• mezereum:
• Rhus Toxicodendron:
• Sulphur
What is the management of Diaper Rash?
• Keep baby clean and dry by frequently changing nappy.
• Using fragrance-free and alcohol-free baby wipes or a bar of mild, moisturizing soap. Wash baby’s bottom with plain water and pat skin dry.
• Give baby as much nappy-free time as possible to allow the air to help in healing.
• Apply a thin layer of cream or ointment before putting on a nappy.
