Of the many potential problems that parents of infants may have to deal with, nappy rash, also called diaper rash, may be the most common. A bad rash can turn an already unpleasant chore into one that is painful for the baby and stressful for the parent. Luckily it is easy to avoid and simple to treat.
The first step is understanding what causes the redness and swelling that characterize this ailment. Simply put, human waste is full of bacteria and acidic in nature. When these things come in contact with the skin they can damage it. To further add to the problem, the nappy does not allow fresh air to circulate in the area creating a perfect breeding ground for harmful germs.
In a perfect world, soiled nappies would be removed the instant they became dirty and children would almost never suffer from diaper rash. However, in the real world parents can only do the best they can to keep the area dry and clean. It is vitally important that the nappy area be cleaned well after every change, not just those that involve feces.
Another preventative measure is to allow the area to be exposed to the open air as much as possible. If time and the situation allows, do not put on a new diaper immediately after the dirty one has been removed. The longer the area is allowed to breath the less the chances of a rash occurring.
Of course, even with the best care it is possible for the redness and inflammation to occur. There are many, many helpful hints as to how to treat it but be careful. Not all of them work and some may even make the problem worse. Knowing the underlying causes will help the parent make an informed decision.
Regular bathing with a mild soap can be invaluable in the fight against diaper rash. Soaking in warm water will not only fight the rash it will also the ease the pain and discomfort. If the rash is severe, adding some baking soda to the water will help to soothe it.
There are also many, many ointments, balms and creams available to battle nappy rash. Some are more effective than others, some may even prove damaging to the very skin they are supposed to protect. Read the labels carefully and speak to your doctor before deciding which one would best suit your needs. As in most situations, it is much better to do everything possible to avoid the problem than to try to fix it later.
The first step is understanding what causes the redness and swelling that characterize this ailment. Simply put, human waste is full of bacteria and acidic in nature. When these things come in contact with the skin they can damage it. To further add to the problem, the nappy does not allow fresh air to circulate in the area creating a perfect breeding ground for harmful germs.
In a perfect world, soiled nappies would be removed the instant they became dirty and children would almost never suffer from diaper rash. However, in the real world parents can only do the best they can to keep the area dry and clean. It is vitally important that the nappy area be cleaned well after every change, not just those that involve feces.
Another preventative measure is to allow the area to be exposed to the open air as much as possible. If time and the situation allows, do not put on a new diaper immediately after the dirty one has been removed. The longer the area is allowed to breath the less the chances of a rash occurring.
Of course, even with the best care it is possible for the redness and inflammation to occur. There are many, many helpful hints as to how to treat it but be careful. Not all of them work and some may even make the problem worse. Knowing the underlying causes will help the parent make an informed decision.
Regular bathing with a mild soap can be invaluable in the fight against diaper rash. Soaking in warm water will not only fight the rash it will also the ease the pain and discomfort. If the rash is severe, adding some baking soda to the water will help to soothe it.
There are also many, many ointments, balms and creams available to battle nappy rash. Some are more effective than others, some may even prove damaging to the very skin they are supposed to protect. Read the labels carefully and speak to your doctor before deciding which one would best suit your needs. As in most situations, it is much better to do everything possible to avoid the problem than to try to fix it later.
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Eliminate the discomfort and pain of nappy rash for your infant or toddler. You can protect their skin using natural skin care products.