Diaper Rash

DEFINITION

• Any rash on the skin covered by a diaper
• Limited to diaper-wearing age group (birth to 3 years)

• Secondary infection by yeast or bacteria

• A chemical irritation of the skin from a mixture of stool and urine being left on it
• Worse during bouts of diarrhea

See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If

• Doesn't look like diaper rash, see RASH - LOCALIZED AND CAUSE UNKNOWN

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR DIAPER RASH

1. Change Frequently: Change diapers frequently to prevent skin contact with stool. It may be necessary to get up once during the night to change the diaper.
   
   
   
2. Rinse with Warm Water:
   • Rinse the baby's skin with lots of warm water during each diaper change.
   • Wash with a mild soap (such as Dove) only after stools. (Reason: Frequent use of soap can interfere with healing).
   • Avoid diaper wipes. (Reason: They leave a film of bacteria on the skin).
3. Increase Air Exposure:
   • Expose the bottom to air as much as possible.
   • Attach the diaper loosely at the waist to help with air circulation.
   • When napping, take the diaper off and lay your child on a towel. (Reason: Dryness reduces the risk of yeast infections).
4. Anti-Yeast Cream: If the rash is bright red or does not respond to 3 days of warm water cleansing and air exposure, suspect a yeast infection. Apply Lotrimin cream (no prescription needed) 3 times per day.
   
5. Raw Skin: If the bottom is very raw, soak in warm water for 10 minutes 3 times per day. Add 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of baking soda to the tub of warm water. Then apply Lotrimin cream.
6. Sore or Scab on End of the Penis: Apply an antibiotic ointment such as Polysporin (no prescription needed) 3 times per day. (Reason: a bacterial infection that can cause painful urination).
7. Diarrhea Rash: If your child has diarrhea and a severe rash around the anus, use a protective ointment (barrier ointment) such as petroleum jelly, A&D or Desitin. Otherwise these are not needed. Caution: Wash off the skin before applying.
   
8. Expected Course: With proper treatment these rashes are usually better in 3 days. If they do not respond, a yeast infection has probably occurred.
   
9. Call Your Doctor If:
   • Rash isn't much better in 3 days on treatment for yeast
   • Your child becomes worse

And remember, contact your doctor if your child develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.