How to know if your child has a nappy rash

Several things including a wet diaper being left on too long, some detergents, or even bath soaps you use on your baby cause nappy rash, otherwise known as diaper rash. Your baby's urine has a high level of ammonia and if left next to the baby's skin for a longer than normal length of time then this will result in a rash developing.

The soap you use to wash your baby's clothes may leave residue in the clothes or diapers. Make sure they are rinsed well or use the soap made for baby's diapers that rinse out better than adult detergents do. Your baby's skin is very sensitive so you should watch anything that gets into contact with their skin. Also never, use your own bath soap or face soap to give baby a bath, as the soap is not gentle on the baby's skin.

Signs of nappy rash

How do you know your baby has a problem with nappy rash? If you notice an area that is red and has blisters or sores then it is more than likely nappy or diaper rash. The area may be swollen and sore to the touch. Areas affected are usually the buttocks, thighs, and legs. Sometimes it may look dry and pimply. Usually it is very red and swollen. It begins as tiny red spots and turns into larger areas of redness and blisters. If not taken care of it can become larger sores with pus where infection can occur along with fever. Sometimes it may turn into a yeast type rash as well.

Treatment

The best way to treat it is to leave the area open without a nappy/diaper so air can get to it whenever you can. Then use a diaper rash cream at naptime and bedtimes. At bath time use a soap for baby's sensitive skin and clean the area well. Apply diaper rash cream and a dry diaper. Never let baby go to bed with a wet diaper or leave the diaper on for long periods.

It may be the detergent you use so make sure you use detergent for baby's diapers not adults. The detergents we use are stronger and the residue that is left behind may harm their delicate skin. If none of these creams seems to work, then try a yeast cream. It may have gone into a yeast type infection. Your doctor can give you advice if it gets worse or does not clear up.