Heat does not cause an infant to develop a diaper rash, but if a yeast infection begins on the skin around the genitals and buttocks, too much moist heat in the diaper area can worsen the spread of the infection and the resulting diaper rash. Fortunately, most diaper rashes can be effectively treated at home with over-the-counter ointments and by keeping the rash area clean and dry. Speak to a pediatrician if your baby has a diaper rash that continues to worsen despite home treatment.
Cause
Heat causes yeast-based diaper rashes to worsen because the combination of warmth and moisture held close to the skin by diapers promotes the rapid growth and reproduction of bacteria and yeast. The most common type of diaper rash caused by yeast is Candida. While Candida is normally found on the skin, it is more likely to cause a diaper rash infection in skin that is already irritated by soiled diapers that aren't changed promptly, by diarrhea, or by sensitivity to an ingredient in a baby-care product. Yeast diaper rashes can also occur in infants who are on antibiotic medication, or who are being breastfed by a mother using antibiotics.
Symptoms
Diaper rashes that don't include a yeast infection are generally flat, red, itchy patches of skin that are located in the child's genital area or on the buttocks. By contrast, diaper rashes caused by a yeast infection are characterized by bright red, puffy areas of skin near the genitals, with spots surrounding each raised area. When this diaper rash is exposed to moisture and heat from a diaper or plastic pants, it spreads, though it usually does not move to the skin beyond the diaper region.
Treatment
The first step in treating a diaper rash caused by a yeast infection is to allow the infected area time to air-dry each day. That way, when a fresh diaper is put on, the additional warmth won't combine with moisture to promote further spread of the infection. Change your baby's diapers as soon as they are soiled, and avoid cleaning the rash area with wipes. Instead, use lukewarm water and a soft cloth or cotton balls. After you have gently dried the area and allowed for some diaperless air-dry time, apply a layer of diaper rash cream or ointment. If the infection worsens or fails to improve after several days, your child's pediatrician may recommend an antifungal cream like Nystatin, clotrimazole or Zimycan.
Prevention
To prevent yeast-based diaper rashes from recurring, or from passing from the baby to other adults or children in the house, wash your hands thoroughly every time you change the baby's diaper. Even when the rash is gone, keep allowing the baby time daily without a diaper. When this isn't possible, make certain that the entire diaper region is completely dry by patting it with a towel. Continue using diaper rash cream, but make certain that the area is dry before applying it, to avoid trapping moisture next to the skin and possibly causing another rash or infection.
