Diaper rash (diaper dermatitis) is the most common skin problem in babies and young children. The skin may look red, raw, scalded, or burned. A diaper rash is uncomfortable. But in most cases, it's not a serious problem. Diaper rash is usually caused by the skin staying wet, the diaper rubbing the skin, and skin contact with urine and stool. It often occurs in babies who sleep for many hours so the wet diaper is on them longer. Diaper rash may also be caused by a fungal infection or bacterial infection. Adults may get diaper rash if they can't wash the genital area well or if they use incontinence briefs. These briefs can cause skin irritation. Or a person may be allergic to the perfumes in the material. A diaper rash may also be a sign of abuse or neglect. Most diaper rashes clear up within 2 to 3 days when treated at home. The rash usually clears up when diapers are changed more often, the skin is carefully cleaned, and over-the-counter ointments are put on the area. A diaper rash that becomes raw, oozes fluid, or bleeds is harder to treat.
Do you have a concern about diaper rash? Why do we ask this question?
Do you think your child has a fever? Do you think you may have a fever? Are there white patches in the mouth? Is your child having trouble eating or swallowing? Are you having trouble swallowing? Has there been a rash in any of the skin folds, such as the neck, underarms, or belly button, for more than 2 days? Do you think the diaper rash may be caused by abuse or neglect? Does the skin look red and raw, like it was scalded or burned? Is diaper rash causing a lot of pain during urination? Are any areas of red, raw skin larger than 1 in. (2.5 cm) across? Do you think that a medicine may be causing the diaper rash? For example, antibiotics can lead to a fungal infection and rash in the diaper area. Have you tried home treatment for the rash for more than 2 days? Is the rash getting better with home treatment? Is the rash on any other parts of the body? Has this type of rash occurred before? Many things can affect how your body responds to a symptom and what kind of care you may need. These include:
You have answered all the questions. Based on your answers, you may be able to take care of this problem at home.
Signs that diaper rash may be a fungal infection include:
Symptoms of a more serious infection in the diaper area may include:
These symptoms usually last more than 2 days (48 hours) without getting better. A milder diaper rash usually will start to improve sooner. Based on your answers, the problem may not improve without medical care.
Based on your answers, you may need care soon. The problem probably will not get better without medical care.
Based on your answers, you may need care right away. The problem is likely to get worse without medical care.
Home treatment is generally all that's needed for most cases of diaper rash. At the first sign of a diaper rash, try the following steps:
If the diaper rash doesn't get better after several diaper changes, try the following steps.
When treating a diaper rash:
Call a doctor if any of the following occur during self-care at home:
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