Diaper dermatitis, also known as diaper rash is an irritation of the skin in areas such as the lower stomach, buttocks, upper thighs and the groin. It includes a variety of skin disorders that generally occur in infants, young kids and paralyzed people. Diaper dermatitis is more common in children who are less than two years of age. It generally occurs when the child is 1-2 months of age and continues as long as the child wears a diaper. It may be difficult to treat Diaper dermatitis if the area gets infected or the medication applied causes some allergy.

Cause

Every person has a protective film of oil on his skin. If this natural oil film is removed the skin may become irritated, cracked, red, and inflamed. On exposure to urine and feces for extended duration leads to the removal of the natural oil and thereby causing diaper dermatitis. Another cause for diaper dermatitis is Maceration. Overhydration of the skin of skin also leads to diaper dermatitis. Retained diaper soaps should be avoided as it can be one of the causes. Children with a past history of atopic dermatitis can be more prone to diaper dermatitis.

Symptoms

The disease begins due to extended contact with feces and urine. In the initial stage there is irritation in the affected area, the skin becomes red and inflamed. Yeast and bacteria may grow on the skin leading to increased irritation. This causes the rash to worsen. The symptoms and signs are generally restricted in areas covered by the diaper.

Treatment

The diaper area should be kept as dry as possible. Conventional diapers should be frequently changed or absorbent disposable diapers should be used. With every diaper change, triple paste (ointment) can be applied to the diaper area. The new age diapers can hold large amounts of feces and urine and keep the skin dry. Such diapers need changing only when they become heavy or get soiled with feces. A mixture of urine and feces causes rashes. In case cloth diapers are being made use of then they should be changed every 2 hours or every time they become wet. In case of disposable diapers prevent tape from adhering to the child’s skin.

For diaper rash Micatin or Lotrimin AF creams can be used. An allergy to a medication or an infection would generally worsen the rash, so the doctor would prescribe an appropriate medication keeping this in mind.