Knowledgebase: The One Minute Pediatrician

These are short topics that Dr. Dennis wrote for use on the radio. Each topic reads in less than one minute!

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10. Diaper Rashes - Top

Diaper rashes are very common in infants because of their young, tender skin being exposed to irritants on a regular basis. The constant irritation of moisture on their skin causes a reaction. Also, the urine contains ammonia and other chemicals which irritate the skin. Rashes around the rectum are commonly caused by acid in the stool.

All these conditions can be aggravated by infrequent changes of diapers and plastic pants or disposable diapers holding in moisture.

Diaper rashes can also be aggrevated by infections with yeast or bacteria. Infants with sensitive skin or skin conditions such as eczema are more prone to diaper rashes.

Most diaper rashes can be handled by simple methods at home. The first step is to expose the skin to fresh air in a warm environment 2-3 times a day. Diapers should be washed with a mild detergent and rinsed well.

Gently wash with plain water and dry after each diaper change. Change diapers frequently. Plastic pants should be avoided and plastic on disposable diapers should be folded away from contact with the skin.

The application of a mild steroid cream such as Cortaid can reduce inflammation.

If pustules or blisters develop or if the rash worsens dispite these measures, then your physician should be contacted for further care of potential infections with yeast or bacteria. - Updated: June 6, 2001

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