Diaper rashes are a common problem for infants, but if your baby is starting solids, rashes can be a sign of more than just skin irritation. Fruits and vegetables, particularly acidic ones, can irritate baby's system. Learning how to identify types of diaper rash will help you to decide whether a food might be causing a problem for your little one.
Starting Solids
Starting solids is an exciting time for parents and baby. Most babies are ready for solids around six months of age. You baby should be able to sit unassisted and grasp items between his thumb and forefinger and should show interest in food before you add solid foods to his diet. Most parents offer simple cereals, like rice cereal, as a first food, followed by fruits and vegetables. You should introduce foods one at a time so you can watch for any reactions, including diaper rashes.
Diaper Rash
By the time your baby is starting solids, she's probably had several diaper rashes. Most diaper rashes are not related to foods. Instead they occur because of the combination of sensitive skin, friction, waste, and moisture. Treat diaper rashes by changing diapers more frequently, allowing your baby to go diaper-free occasionally to allow baby's skin to air out and applying over-the-counter diaper rash cream.
Allergy Ring
Rashes caused by solids in your baby's diet, like acidic fruits and vegetables, are not spread over the entire diaper area. An allergic rash presents as a red, irritated ring around the anus. This rash isn't a sign of a true food allergy, but rather a reaction to increased acid in your baby's system. You may see a similar rash if baby is teething and producing substantial amounts of saliva. If you notice a red allergy ring rash, discontinue any new foods until he's older.
Worrisome Rashes
Severe diaper rashes are not a sign of a food allergy or reaction to a new vegetable. These rashes, including impetigo, yeast rashes, and seborrhea require a visit to the pediatrician. A red, raised, patchy rash requires anti-fungal treatment, while crusty blisters may indicated a bacterial infection. Seborrhea is raised, with a rough texture, and it may be greasy to the touch. Contact your health care provider about diaper rashes that do not resolve with normal treatment at home or that have an unusual appearance.
