As a parent, caring for an infant that repeatedly develops diaper rash can be a challenge. Her red, chafed skin is obviously painful, but you may not know where to turn if the rash cream doesn't work or if the rash becomes severe or if your infant develops blisters. One problem with treating the rash is that you might have difficulty pinpointing the source of the irritation.
Causes
Your infant may develop a diaper rash for a variety of reasons, and you will have to go through a process of elimination to determine the cause. The most obvious cause of diaper rash is irritation from the wet diaper. If your baby continues to have irritated skin even with clean diapers, he might be allergic to the materials in the diaper or his baby wipes. When you have pinpointed the probable cause of the irritation, you can take steps to relieve the irritation.
Symptoms
Diaper rash is characterized by red, irritated skin in the diaper area. Some diaper rashes become more severe. For example, your infant may contract a yeast infection in her diaper area. This infection is characterized by red dots on top of the affected area. If your child is taking antibiotics, she may be more likely to get severe diaper rashes caused by a yeast infection. Your infant may also get other infections in the diaper area such as a staphylococcus aureus, or staph, infection. A staph infection can cause blisters or small sores on the affected area.
Treatment
The first form of treatment is to use a zinc-based ointment after each diaper change to coat the skin where the rash occurs. Even if you suspect that an allergy is the culprit, most diaper rashes are caused by wetness. This ointment will form a barrier between your baby's skin and the wet diaper. If the ointment doesn't work after two to three days, try using a different diaper or wipe. Some infants may be allergic to the glue or plastics in disposable diapers and the rash may go away when you switch to cloth diapers.
When to Consult a Pediatrician
If the rash doesn't clear up within two to three days of using ointment or switching diapers, or if your baby develops red dots, sores or blisters in the diaper area, consult your pediatrician. Your pediatrician will suggest other steps to take or can conduct tests to determine if your child's rash is caused by an allergy or an infection. If his rash is caused by an allergy, your pediatrician can suggest brands or types of diapers to buy to relieve the irritation.
