CAUSES AND TYPES OF DIAPER RASH
Diaper rash is caused by the constant skin wetness and friction along with frequent exposure of skin to various irritants. A baby’s skin should be dry and soft. If this barrier is broken, the skin becomes rough, red, warm and this leads to further infections. The most common irritants are urine, stool, bacteria from them, ammonia formed by the breakdown of urinary chemicals by stool, detergents, perfumes, plastics and dyes, pre-moistened and alcoholic baby wipes, soaps and allergic reactions to baby creams. There are several types of diaper rashes and it is always good to be aware of them before prevention and treatment is undertaken. Chafing dermatitis or diaper chafing is the most common and it occurs in the genital areas, thigh fold and buttocks making them look red and puffy. Diaper chafing or prolonged wetness causes this. It is usually harmless as long as it does not lead to secondary infection. Atopic Dermatitis or Eczema occurs as scaly red patches on the legs and in the groin area which may spread to other body parts. It commonly occurs in infants between 6 and 12 months of age. The reasons can be allergens, irritants, environmental and hereditary factors. Candidal dermatitis or yeast infection is the worst kind. It is tender and painful and appears in genital folds, legs and abdomen. The rash starts as small red spots which soon become numerous. It is very common in babies that have been given antibiotics. Perianal dermatitis occurs as a red patch around the anus because of alkaline stool. It only occurs in bottle-fed babies. Seborrheic dermatitis or cradle crap is a deep red rash that starts on the scalp and spreads to the diaper areas. It is caused by overactive oil glands in the skin. Impetigo appears as yellow-brown crusty patches or pus filled blisters followed by redness. It is caused by streptococci or staphylococci bacteria. It occurs in the butt, lower abdomen, anus, umbilical cord and thighs and can spread to other parts as well. This has to be treated with the help of a doctor. Intertrigo is a skin friction rash that appears as a reddened area found in the thigh folds, abdomen and armpits. Tidemark dermatitis is an irritation that is caused by diaper edges or bindings rubbing against the baby’s skin.