Different
Kinds of Diaper Rash
What is diaper rash
Diaper rash is a problem that plagues
most babies. The incidence of diaper rash peaks between seven to nine months
and then diminishes, as the baby’s skin becomes hardier and not so sensitive.
The term "diaper rash" is an umbrella term that describes a number of different
skin conditions in the nappy area.
What are the different
kinds of diaper rash
Perianal dermatitis:
This is more likely to occur in
bottlefed babies. The redness around the anus is caused by the alkalinity
of their stools. Breastfed babies usually develop this condition only after
the introduction of solids in their diet.
Chafing dermatitis:
The most common form of diaper rash,
the baby’s skin becomes red where there is most friction, but not in the
skin folds. It comes and goes, and is not a cause of discomfort unless
the baby develops a secondary infection.
Atopic dermatitis:
This is an itchy rash that may initially
appear on other parts of the body before affecting the genitals. It spreads
to the nappy area between six and twelve months.
Seborrhoeic dermatitis:
This is a deep red rash, often with
yellowish scales, which usually begins on the scalp, though it can start
in the nappy area and spread upward.
Candidal dermatitis:
An uncomfortable rash, bright red
and tender, it usually appears in the creases between the abdomen and thighs,
with satellite pustules that spread out from that point. This condition
often develops in babies taking antibiotics.
Impetigo:
This form of nappy rash, caused
by bacteria, has two manifestations: (a) Bullous - with large, thin-walled
blisters that burst and leave a thin yellow-brown crust; and (b) Non-bullous
- with thick yellow crusted scabs and a lot of surrounding redness.
This rash mainly covers thighs, buttocks and lower abdomen, but can spread
to other parts as well.
Intertrigo: This is caused
by the friction of skin rubbing against skin. The area most likely to be
affected is the folds of skin between the thighs and the lower abdomen
and the armpits. This rash may ooze white to yellowish matter and may burn
on contact with urine.
Tidemark dermatitis: This
skin irritation is caused by the edge of the nappy rubbing against the
skin.
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