Diaper rash is ubiquitous in babies, as much common as wet diapers and baby wipes. Every baby at some point of time undergoes this rash either mildly or severely.
First things first - What is diaper rash?
Diaper rash occurs when a baby's skin becomes acidic due to the prolonged exposure of moist conditions caused by wet diapers, urine or feces. It makes the skin irritated, red and inflamed leading to itching and soreness. And let’s not forget about the mood swings that come along with it.
But fear not! This article covers everything you need to know to tackle your precious little ones' diaper rashes seamlessly. So grab a cuppa joe (or tea) and get comfy while we explore through all there is to know about diaper rashes.
The Different Types Of Diaper Rashes
Before we start tackling what causes these unwelcoming guests, let us take a moment to understand the types of diaper rashes that exist out in our world today – chances are these types will determine just how severe one nappy-rash episode can become:
- Contact Dermatitis
- Caused by prolonged wear of wet diapers.
- Yeast Infections
- A result of Candida fungi transfer from mother’s infected birth canal during vaginal delivery.
- Impetigo
- Intertrigo
When Do Babies Develop Diaper Rashes?
We now dive right into understanding some prerequisites for developing adult-like symptoms such as acne breakouts and most importantly, diaper problems-
Frequency Of Wet Diapers Per Day
One key metric parents need to look at closely would be frequency amongst other things such as keeping their younglings dry.
Age
Younger infants are more susceptible due half-formed bladders thus higher frequency needs than older babies.
Starting Solid Foods
When the day arrives where your angel starts carving up solid foods, you will need to step up your hygiene game! Expect nappy changes to increase in order to prevent food-borne rashes.
The Top 4 Causes of Diaper Rash
Moving on, now let's peek at some common causes that lead to diaper rashes in babies:
Keeping Wet Diapers For Long
The primary reason for diaper rashes is the constant exposure of babies skin to wet surfaces caused by damp diapers. Make sure their nappies are changed often.
Tip: Try using quick-drying and disposable diapers.
Use Of Antibiotics
Antibiotics disturb bacterias' intrapersonal dynamics lowering their ability levels increasing the risk of yeast exchange—Yeast infections’ party booster!
Reaction To New Products
Medications or cleansing products with strong chemicals could alter baby’s skin pH making toddlers more vulnerable.
Food Allergies
Certain types of allergic reactions based on different types certain meats, nuts sweets etc. can trigger more acidic digestion possibly leading towards diaper rash breakout.
Symptoms Of Diaper Rash
Is it a bird? Is it batman? No silly It is just..yep another one-diaper rashes come in many shapes and forms so please familiarize oneself with these symptoms:
- Red spotty bumps around genital areas.
- Inflamed-looking bites around tender-looking sensitive spots.
- Oozing Areas-Can be very sudden appearance!
- excessive crying/fussiness especially during baby's naptime
Proactivity Helps!
One should keep an eagle eye out for any unusual events such as redness which had not existed before since this would give us sufficient time/actions required for damage management plan.
What Home Remedies Can I Utilize?
While there isn't really a shortcut solution available here are some helpful remedies one can use from the comforts of their own homes:
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has been praised for it’s organic nature-providing a solid tonic approach to deal with diaper rashes. A quick application followed by gentle patting dry will work wonders.
Oatmeal
Not only perfect for breakfast, but soaking oats in water and applying as an ointment can provide soothing relief.
Tip: Try looking into Aveenos' bath soak range!
When Should I Book An Appointment With The Doctor?
The following symptoms should be seen as red flags that prompt immediate medical attention:
- Discharge from rash area
- Blisters / Spreading outward appearance.
- Continuously crying/fussiness without reason
Also if you notice 'Rash Conjunctivitis Syndrome', consult your paediatrician immediately after.
Conclusion
We hope this article has helped clarify some of the minor mysteries behind baby's uncomfortable moments - We feel strongly about being proactive when dealing with irritation in these tender body areas whilst avoiding further complications. If there is anything we missed while covering diaper-rash woes, let us know and we will aim to cover it in our follow up!