Nappy rash
Nappy rash is caused by a baby’s skin being exposed to a wet nappy for too long. In an ideal world they are not left in a wet or dirty nappy for too long but sometimes it is unavoidable and some babies get nappy rash regardless of how often their nappy is changed. Sometime is can be triggered from something else such as the brand of nappy, the baby wipes used, etc as your baby may have sensitive skin and they may cause irritation too. Some babies only get nappy rash when they have a cold, teething, etc and others babies nappy rash may worsen if they have another infection such as thrush.
Symptoms:
Red inflamed skin
Sometimes blisters
Unsettled as when they pass urine it can be very painful and irritate the rash more. it may also affect their normal routine such as sleep as it may wake them due to the discomfort or pain.
Treatment:
The best way to treat a nappy rash is to change the child’s nappy more regularly or immediately once they have soiled their nappy as well as airing their bottom as much as possible, but generally the best treatment of all is to use a good cream. The most effective nappy rash creams are the ones that contain zinc or castor oil.
Alternatively, you need to also clean the area well. This can be done with baby wipes but they may aggravate the situation at times (and depending on the type of wipes as they may be sensitive to them) or you could use cotton wool and warm water.
Suggestions for prevention:
First and foremost change the baby’s nappy more regularly.
If possible use disposable nappies, even if only for the duration of the nappy rash so as to draw the moisture away from the skin as disposable nappies do.
Use a good nappy barrier cream.
When possible let the baby go ‘nappy-less’ so their little bottom can air.
Don’t use products with alcohol in them such as baby wipes.
If the symptoms don’t get better after a few days or it spreads seek medical attention.
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