Live Life Team
This rash is highly common among babies. Faeces that are present in the nappy and urine are responsible for the rash. The area near and around the nappy get irritated and soar, Red or pink colour blotches or spots are also formed. However these are not strong and can be cured by a very easy process. There is no unrest or pain if your baby has a slight rash. But there are some rashes which can be very painful and the baby can get restless, in such cases a treatment needs to be taken.
Symptoms
Nappy rash can differ from one baby to another, depending on the nature of the rash. Very often the rashes are mild in nature;
Nappy rash – Mild
Mild rash covers only 10% of the nappy area and this 10% area will be pink in color with small blotches or spots. This doesn’t cause any pain only a mild sensation is felt while passing urine or faeces.
Nappy rash – Severe
The Symptoms for severe rash can be painful and advanced like; swelling, ulcers and blisters, broken skin, cracked skin and dry skin with bright red spots. Covering more than10%, it can also spread to abdomen or legs. The child is very irritable and cries nonstop as the rash can be very painful. You are advised to consult the doctor immediately as there can be a chance of infection or fever.
Causes
Faeces that are present in the nappy and urine are responsible for the rash
Ammonia
The Nappy cannot absorb all the waste produced by the baby, which means your child’s skin will be in contact with faeces and urine for a longer duration, this causes a chemical reaction called as ammonia. This chemical in turn irritates the babies skin.
Fungal infection
A fungus called Candida grows on the baby’s skin, if the skin is kept damp and warm for a long time. This is called as fungal infection. Similar to ammonia, Candida also has a tendency to irritate the skin. This can start as a reaction to ammonia and further gets severe with a fungal infection.
Underlying conditions
Underlying conditions can also be a reason for nappy rash, however very rarely like;
Eczema
If the nappy rashes are frequent even after changing the nappies at regular interval, this can be a case of Eczema. This sore’s and dries the skin and it is not limited only to the nappy area but can spread elsewhere also.
Seborroeic dermatitis
When the baby is about 2-6 weeks old this occurs and causes scaly skin. Area near the child’s neck, armpit and scalp are reddened. This lasts only few weeks and there is relapse.
Psoriassis
This rash has a defined border with red scales. This occurs when the child is about 2 months. Its very rare and affects only the nappy area.
Bacterial infection
Nappy areas can be infected with bacteria, This is bright red in color and can be very painful. You need to take proper treatment with antibiotics for this infection.
Allergic dermatitis
A rash can also be caused as a result of Allergic reaction to certain things called as allergen. Allergen encourages the immune system to react, which leads to swelling and irritation. Baby can be allergic to lot of substances like; Powders, oils, detergents, preservatives, fragrances and soaps. Its easy to make out which products the baby can get allergic but at times it can be difficult to make out in such cases, The baby will be tested to different products to check which can trigger. If a rash has occurred by Allergic dermatitis you can cure it in similar way as mild rash. If it is severe, you are advised to consult a doctor.
Zinc deficiency
Very normal in babies which are premature. Including nappy area this rash is also occurs near hands and mouth.
