One of the most common causes of nappy rash is when a baby
is subject to infrequent nappy changes, and a wet or dirty nappy sits against
their skin for too long. Illness is a contributing factor, as a baby is thought
to be more likely to develop nappy rash when they are unwell. Sitting in a
nappy for an extended period of time, such as during a long car trip or walk in
the pram, is also thought to be a cause of nappy rash. Heat, such as that from
a heater used during Winter, hot days during Summer or too many layers of
clothing, are also said to be contributing factors to the development of nappy
rash. Other causes include the introduction of a new food, the brand of
disposable nappy being used, or an infection of the skin such as thrush
aggravating the area and making it more prone to nappy rash.
Nappy rash occurs when the baby's urine mixes with the germs
that live on the baby's skin, in their clothing or nappies, and in their
faeces. These germs turn into ammonia when kept in a wet environment, such as a
wet, dirty or even sweaty nappy. The ammonia that is created can have a burning
effect on the baby's skin, and this combined with the friction of the nappy
rubbing against the baby's delicate skin creates nappy rash.
How the nappy rash presents itself differs greatly between
each child. Usually it is red swollen skin, combined with blisters or ulcers,
almost like little pimples. Nappy rash can cover a large area, such as the
whole of the skin that is usually covered by the nappy, or only small patches.
Once your child develops nappy rash there are a number of
ways to treat it. A combination of the following usually works best, and after
they have had it once it usually pays to put preventative measures in place. If
you are concerned about the severity or are finding treatment ineffective a
trip to your GP may be in order so that they can prescribe a suitable ointment
with cortisone in it. Treatments of nappy rash include:
~ Changing the baby's
nappy as often as possible to ensure it stays as dry as possible.
~ Allowing nappy off
time on a regular daily basis, as often as possible, to allow the skin time to
breathe and allow it to dry completely.
~ Disposable nappies
appear to be more effective than cloth nappies in alleviating the symptoms of
nappy rash, particularly brands with absorbent linings. If you choose to use
cloth nappies, ensure they are changed regularly, and washed using powder
suitable for sensitive skin. Dry them in a dryer, rather than in the sun to
keep them softer and avoid using plastic pants over the top.
~ Keep baby's bottom
clean at all times, and wash very gently with warm water and no soap. Some
sorbolene creams are suitable to add to the warm water should you wish to do
so. Pat, rather than rub when washing and drying your child.
~ Ensure that any
baby wipes you use do not contain alcohol in them as this is painful for the
baby. It is recommended that a wet face washer is used, without soap, to clean
baby's bottom whilst they have nappy rash.
~ After each nappy
change apply a barrier cream to the skin such as zinc cream, Bepanthen,
Sudocream or Daktozin. Check with your pharmacist to see which they recommend.
~ Do not use powder
on your baby. Talc powder is believed to be dangerous for infants, and
cornstarch powder contains yeast which thrush feeds on.
Nappy rash can be mildly or severely painful for your child,
so patience and extra comfort will be required until symptoms are treated. Babies
with nappy rash can be irritable and have sleep difficulties. Pain relief such
as Infant Panadol can be used to help relieve some of the pain. Thrush,
bacterial infections and eczema can often be mistaken for nappy rash so it is
important to have it checked by a doctor if symptoms do not subside within a
few days of treatment.
Nappy rash is a very common infant ailment, that can be
effectively treated with one or all of the aforementioned treatments.
The Nitty Gritty of Nappy Rash