What is Diaper Rash?

What causes it?

The primary cause of diaper rash is prolonged and increased exposure to wetness/moisture on the skin.

Other causes of diaper rash include:

Other Common Baby Rashes:

Your baby’s rash may actually be something else, such as a yeast infection, psoriasis or impetigo. Identify the signs so you know how to best treat your baby.

Yeast infection

A yeast infection typically appears where the skin is warm and moist such as, the folds of the skin. A yeast infection can also be referred to as a fungal infection or Candida albicans.

It usually presents as a swollen red rash with white scales and lesions and may also appear as small white pus-filled lesions surrounded by redness. Beyond the folds of the skin, lesions may be found outside the diaper area, such as the thighs or abdomen. These are called satellite lesions and are usually a common sign of a yeast infection. Sometimes the yeast infection may appear in combination with a diaper rash, making the rash worse. Be sure to call your pediatrician if your baby is showing any of these symptoms, the rash does not heal within 7 days, or heals and then reappears. Your doctor will be able to prescribe the best treatment plan for the yeast infection. The best way to care for a yeast infection is prevention. Keeping the diaper area clean, dry and protected can help prevent both diaper rash and yeast infections.

Psoriasis

Though rare, Psoriasis can occur in infants. It presents as red thickened skin with silvery scales that may be itchy or sore and is typically located on the legs, arms or scalp.

Impetigo

Appearing as yellow brownish crusty patches and/or pus-filled blisters. It is generally located on the buttocks, lower abdomen and thighs. If your baby shows any of these symptoms be sure to call your pediatrician.

Identifying Diaper Rash Symptoms

Diaper rash symptoms

Diaper rash usually comes on quickly, and it affects the areas of baby’s body that are in closest contact with the diaper. While there are some common symptoms of diaper rash, there is wide variation in what diaper rash looks like.

More information:

• Identifying Diaper Rash
• How to Treat Diaper Rash
• Preventing Diaper Rash