Children's Health Newborns and Toddlers

Dealing With Diaper Rash

For most babies and parents, diaper rash is a fact of life. But there are some important tips parents can use to prevent, or at least lessen, their baby's discomfort . Below, Dr. Daniel Neuspiel discusses the dos and don'ts of diapering your baby, and when parents should seek their pediatrician's help.

Diaper Rash 101
Diaper rash often results from irritation due to the less-than-hospitable diaper environment, but bacterial and/or yeast infections can also be involved.

Urine, which is acidic, and stool, which contains bacteria and digestive enzymes, can easily irritate a baby's sensitive skin. The longer a dirty or wet diaper remains on your baby's bottom, the more likely your tot will develop a rash. That's why it's important to change your baby's diaper frequently, especially when he or she has diarrhea.

Irritated skin is also fertile ground for yeast, specifically yeast called Candida . This is the same yeast that causes infections in babies' mouths, sometimes called thrush, and vaginal infections in women. Candida is present in everyone's intestines and skin, but is usually held in check by friendly bacteria. Candida diaper rash occurs frequently, and the chances increase when your baby is taking antibiotics, as these medications kill friendly bacteria in addition to disease-causing bugs.

Skin bacteria may also cause diaper rash. One particularly dangerous type of rash, called scalded skin syndrome, is caused by certain strains of staphylococcus bacteria. The condition first appears as reddening of the skin followed by blister-like lesions. The affected skin will eventually peel off in sheets when it is touched. If your child has these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Another bacterial diaper rash is caused by Streptococcus -the same bug that causes strep throat in older children. Strep may cause a bright red rash, and requires medical attention.

Clues in Appearance of the Rash
The first signs of diaper rash caused by irritation may be redness or small bumps on skin in the diaper region. This is usually the result of leaving a diaper on for too long.

Candida (yeast) rashes are found near skin folds. They are typically solid red and surrounded by bright red spots.

Bacterial rashes are the most serious. If you see pimples with pus, or a bright red rash that looks like a burn, especially if your baby has a fever, call your pediatrician immediately.

Preventing Diaper Rash

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