ALLERGIES IN BABIES: DIAPER DERMATITIS

The diaper rash It is one of the most frequent contact (or irritative) dermatitis of children's age. It is characterized in that the painting is located mainly in the area called "diaper".

This area, being covered by this garment almost continuously, requires additional care, which can be applied especially when changing the diaper.

Is a frequent, usually mild and transient picture, but in some cases it can become more complicated than desirable, so it may be appropriate to take into account a number of aspects that can help prevent and manage it.

Causes

Diaper dermatitis is an allergic reaction in babies that is caused by contact. It may be due to rubbing with the diaper tissue itself, but the skin is often very much in contact with the child's own substances, such as sweat, feces or urine.

Other aspects that can influence are the presence of certain substances that are part of the diaper or creams that are applied in the area, and that can trigger or worsen the allergy picture.

Symptoms of diaper dermatitis

The symptoms are varied, although What usually prevails is the presence of eczematous areas, that is, very red and looking inflamed. Its appearance can vary greatly, and sometimes the child may have small papules (skin lifts) or vesicles (fluid lifts that contain fluid inside).

In the most striking cases, the affected area can be very large and it is not uncommon to see fungal infections, which have a predilection for the hottest and wettest areas of folds.

Diaper dermatitis treatment

In mild cases it is simple, since it is usually enough with keep the area clean and dry. Sometimes it helps to leave the child at times without the diaper, on a soaper, to help it dry. Avoid abusing soaps and creams, helping a lot to clean the child only with wet gauze or the soaked single-use wipes. In case of using soaps these should be very soft and neutral, trying to leave the area very dry and clean after using them.

In the most severe cases the child can benefit from the use of some creams with potent anti-inflammatories, such as corticosteroids. In case there are fungal infections, it may be necessary to use ointments with antifungals.

The treatment should always be prescribed and controlled by the Pediatrician, since there are many seemingly positive measures (such as many creams) that can worsen the dermatitis picture.

In summary…

The diaper rash It is a very frequent and easy to treat condition in most cases, which are usually mild. Its appearance can be prevented with very simple measures, such as using diapers of high absorption capacity, changing these frequently, and keeping the area always clean and dry.

There are cases in which control can be more complicated and even the child may suffer from bacterial or fungal overinfections. It is convenient not to despair because the majority remit without problem with an adequate treatment. In case the child needs treatment, it should always be prescribed by the Pediatrician.