What is diaper rash?
Diaper rash refers to the term used to describe a rash or irritation in the area covered by the diaper, causing your baby discomfort and fretfulness.It is marked by redness and small bumps in the diaper region—lower abdomen, buttocks,genital and the thigh folds.Diaper rash can occur on any skin surface that has been in direct contact with the wet or soiled diaper.
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| It is more common in infants andchildren younger than 2 years. Diaper rash is rarely serious and mayusually develop when your baby starts eating solid foods. |
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What causes diaper rash?
Diaper rash can be caused by various factors. Some of them are:
Irritation:Rash appears when diapers rub against the skin or fit too tightly. Theacid in urine and bowel movements can also cause skin irritation. Yourbaby’s skin can also be irritated by cleaning agents or soap used towash cloth diapers. | 
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Moisture: Leaving a wet diaper on too long raise the temperature and moisture in the diaper area. Over time, the urine in the diaper decomposes, forming ammonia that can further irritate the baby’s sensitive skin.
Infection: Infection is usually caused by Candida, a yeast-like fungus. It usually has a bright red appearance—small red dots extending beyond the main part of the rash. Areas like buttocks, thighs and genitals, which are covered by the diaper are more vulnerable to diaper infection.
Allergies: The rash may be due to allergic reaction to some brands of disposable diapers or baby wipes.
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New foods: When solid foods are introduced to yourbaby, the composition of the stool changes. It will also increase yourbaby’s bowel movement as well, which can lead to Diaper Rash. Your babymay even develop Diaper Rash in response to something you have eatenwhile breastfeeding.
Antibiotics: Diaper rashcan develop when the baby takes antibiotic or when the mother who isbreastfeeding is on antibiotic. Antibiotics reduce the number ofhealthy bacteria that help keep yeast in check. | 
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Preventing diaper rash
Here are a few simple tips that you can do to reduce your baby’s risk of developing diaper rash: |
- Change your baby’s diaper often as soon as it is wet or soiled. It will keep her skin dry and clean as possible.
- Do not over tighten the diaper as it will prevent air circulation to the diaper region.
- Clean your baby’s bottom by rinsing with warm water between diaper changes. You can pat her skin dry with moist washcloths and cotton balls. Never rub your baby’s skin as it can irritate her skin.
- Allow your baby’s skin to dry completely before you put on another diaper.
- Avoid use of wipes that contain alcohol or fragrance.
- Soak and wash cloth diapers with hot water. Use a mild detergent and rinse carefully to remove any traces of detergent or soap. Fabric softener can also harm your baby’s skin.
- Expose the baby’s bottom to air whenever possible to let it dry.
- Choose breathable diaper covers so that there is room for air to circulate. Avoid plastic or rubber pants.
- Do not overdress your baby as sweating can make rash worse.
- You can use a barrier ointment to prevent skin irritation during each diaper change. Use ointment recommended by your doctor.
- Wash your hands well after changing the diaper to prevent infection of all kinds.
- Use of talcum powder or cornstarch is not recommended when diapering as caked powder helps create an environment in which microorganisms can grow.
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When to seek medical advice
Prevention is the most effective way to treat Diaper Rash. With proper care Diaper Rash should go away within 2 or 3 days. If it still persists, do consult your doctor to prevent or treat if there is any secondary infection. Your doctor may recommend antifungal medicines or antibiotics. Have your doctor examined your baby if: - She develops fever.
- Pimples and small ulcers appear.
- The rash spreads to other areas.
- Large bumps and boils form.
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