Treatment of Diaper Rash

Generally a nappy rash does not require medication. It can be cured by simple tips. The main aim is to keep babys skin dry and clean. For recurrent nappy rash doctor may prescribe medicines. Read on to know about how to prevent nappy rash. In this articleTry to reduce the moisture against the skinExpose the babys skin to airTry to expose your baby to fewer irritantsTry a different brand of diaperProtect your babys skinWhat medication can I use to treat diaper rash?What are the common causes of diaper rashes?How can I prevent diaper rash?Here are some tips which you can follow to prevent diaper rash.Try to reduce the moisture against the skinKeep the nappy area dry and clean. Change the babys nappy as soon as she is wet or has had a poop. Give your baby less superfluous fluid to control excessive urination.Expose the babys skin to airKeep your baby bare-bottomed part of the time, placing her on a plastic or waterproof sheet covered with thin layer of cloth to protect the surface below. However, ensure that she is warm enough so that she does not catch a chill.Try to expose your baby to fewer irritantsAdult soap can dry and irritate your babys skin. Do not use adult soap. Ask the doctor to recommend good baby soap. When your baby has a bowel movement, clean her skin using warm water and cotton balls. If her bowel movement is really messy, you can clean her up with a quick dip in a tub or the sink, but make sure that you pat her dry.Try a different brand of diaperIf your baby has recurrent nappy rash, switch to another brand or from cloth to disposables. Alternatively, you can stop using a diaper till the rashes are healed to prevent the discomfort. Using liners and nappy pads is another option to reduce the discomfort.Protect your babys skinSometimes spreading a thick layer of ointment (recommended by your doctor) on your babys bottom after you have washed her at changing time can prevent urine from coming in contact with the skin. Using boric acid is not advisable as it is a toxic substance. Talc absorbs moisture and keeps the baby dry. However, adult talc may contain asbestos, which can be carcinogenic. Talc specially formulated for babies by reputed manufacturers does not contain asbestos and is safe for use.What medication can I use to treat diaper rash?If the nappy rash does not clear up in a day or two or if it gets aggravated, the doctor may need to prescribe medication. The medication will depend on the kind of nappy rash.Seborrhoeic dermatitis steroid cream (but not long term)Impetigo antibiotics administered orallyIntertrigo careful cleansing and a hydrocortisone cream and protective ointmentsCandida topical anti-fungal ointment or creamThe above mentioned medications should not be used without doctor’s prescription. Please consult your doctor in order to be on a safer side.What are the common causes of diaper rashes?Diaper rash is mainly caused due to leaving the baby in a wet or a dirty diaper for a longer time. If there is no diaper-free time allowed to baby, diaper rash may also be caused due to rubbing of baby’s skin to diapers frequently. Allergic reaction to the diapers is also one of the causes of diaper rashes in babies. Other causes also include yeast and bacterial infection.Keeping your baby clean and hygienic is a must to prevent diaper rashes and any kind of skin infection. If your baby is coping with diaper rashes, make sure that you consult a paediatrician immediately. Do not apply anything on the rashes without consulting your doctor. Your doctor is the right person to suggest appropriate remedies for dealing with the diaper rashes of your baby.