Doctor's Notes on Diaper Rash
Diaper rash is inflammation of the skin under a diaper. It usually occurs in children under 2 years of age but can occur in adults with incontinence and/or paralyzed patients. Signs and symptoms include a red rash that may cover part or all of the buttocks, genitalia, and possibly the skin folds. In some patients with a skin condition (seborrhea), the skin develops an oily, yellowish rash in the diaper area and on other body sites.
Causes of diaper rash include friction on the skin by the diaper, irritation from urine and feces trapped by the diaper, fungal infection (Candida) due to moist environmental conditions that promote fungal growth, and an allergic reaction to diaper wipes or laundry chemicals used to clean diapers. Seborrhea skin disease is another cause of diaper rash.
What Are the Treatments for Diaper Rash?
The best treatment for any diaper rash is to keep the skin covered by the diaper as clean and dry as possible. Over-the-counter diaper rash medications like Desitin usually help. You should see good improvements in the rash and discomfort in a few days. However, if the person is diagnosed with a yeast (fungal) infection, a cream or lotion containing an antifungal medication may be needed. Similarly, if a diagnosis of a bacterial infection is made, then an antibiotic cream or lotion may be used. Steroid creams or lotions should be used only under a doctor's recommendation. Finally, avoid using airtight diapers or plastic pants. Leave the diaper off for several short time periods to promote healing.
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Diaper Rash (Candida, Yeast Infection) in Babies
Candida albicans is a common cause of diaper rash. Diaper rash is red, elevated, and fluid may be visible under the skin. The rash may be found in the creases of the skin. Treatment involves antifungal topical treatment and decreasing moisture in the diaper area. -
Heat Rash
Heat rash (prickly heat, miliaria) is thought to be due to plugged hair follicles and sweat ducts on the skin. Overexposure to a hot environment, for example, working or exercising in a hot environment, are causes heat rash. There are three types of heat rash, clear, red, and deep.Signs and symptoms of heat rash include itching (prickly heat), red bumps, blisters, or large welts on the face, neck back, stomach, buttocks, groin, or the fold under the breasts. Home remedies for heat rash include first aid, cool baths or showers, and avoiding skin-to-skin contact. OTC and prescription medications may be necessary for treatment. People at risk for heat rash include infants, children younger than four years of age, and people with congenital decreased sweating, are overweight or obese, are bedridden and unable to walk, and the elderly. -
Skin Rashes in Children
Skin rashes in children may be categorized as bacterial, viral, life-threatening, fungal, and parasitic rashes. Oftentimes, the associated symptoms help establish the diagnosis. Treatment depends upon the type of rash and the severity of the signs and symptoms. -
Yeast Infection (Candida, Candidiasis)
Candidiasis is type of yeast infection, and is the most common type of yeast infection. Candidiasis yeast infections are caused by a fungus. Areas where candidiasis yeast infection can occur are vaginal, thrush (mouth), skin, diaper rash, nailbed, penile, and other genital organs. Treatment for candidiasis yeast infections are OTC and prescription medication. Rarely a candidiasis yeast infection can infect the internal organs and cause serious complications, even death. -
Yeast Infection Skin Rash
Candidiasis is by far the most common type of yeast infections in human skin. Candidiasis is infection with Candida species. More than 20 species of Candida exist. Signs and symptoms of a candidal infection can vary depending on the location of the infection. Most candidal infections can be treated at home with over-the-counter or prescription medication and can clear up within a week.
REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.