What is Nappy Rash? How can I treat it? Dr Chris provides practical advice.

Nappy Rash Basic Information

Nappy rash is very common. Most babies will have it some time during their development.It occurs more commonly in babies who are bottle fed, and in babies who are left for long periods of time in their wet nappy. The commonest causes of nappy rash are: Ammonia, Thrush, Detergents.

Ammonia is a very strong chemical which when in contact with skin, causes a mild `burn' to the skin. In the babies stools there are bacteria which when in contact with the babies urine cause a breakdown of the urine produce ammonia. If in contact with the skin for too long, redness and soreness result.

Thrush is quite a common infection. If the baby has a thrush infection of the mouth, the organism passes through the intestines and out in the babies stools. The infection is caused by the fungus `Candida' which grows where the conditions of dampness, darkness and warmth prevail. A red rash which is itchy and tender, results. At the edges of the rash you will see discrete little red spots spreading onto normal skin.

Detergents and biological washing powders are strong chemicals, which can produce the red rash of a `contact dermatitis'.

Treatment.
Prevention of nappy rash is the best intervention:
* If possible breast feed your baby.
* After removing a used nappy, gently clean the skin with either warm water then dry gently and thoroughly, or cotton wool and baby lotion/baby oil, or special baby cleaning tissues.
* Apply liberal amounts of a barrier cream, such as Zinc and Castor Oil, which acts as a waterproof barrier preventing skin contact with urine and stools.
* Ammonia is an alkaline substance which can be neutralised by adding an acidic substance such as vinegar to it. After washing towelling nappies, put 2 tablespoons of vinegar into every 1 gallon of water, and use this as the final rinse, before hanging them out to dry.
* Change nappies frequently, never allow baby to lie for long in a wet or dirty nappy.
* When possible leave the nappy off, to allow fresh air to circulate over the skin.
* Using disposable nappies and one way disposable nappy liners, makes life a lot easier, and can help a great deal to prevent nappy rash.
If the rash persists then see your health visitor, local child clinic or your GP for further advice.
IMPORTANT NOTICE : This content is from the Dr Chris Steele personal archive and is provided for convenience only. Information contained here may no longer agree with the most up to date medical advice. Please check with a medical professional before taking any action.

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