Description
Diaper rash is often unavoidable. By far the most common cause is the constant wetness of the baby's tender skin, which soon becomes red and rough. This continuous contact between skin and moist diaper results in waterlogged skin and finally the rash.
The second major cause of diaper rash is ammonia formation beneath the diaper. This usually develops after the baby is six months old. Most mothers have no trouble diagnosing diaper rash triggered by ammonia - when changing the baby's diaper, a strong ammonia smell is easily detected.
To get rid of the ammonia-causing bacteria in cloth diapers, they may need to be treated with an antiseptic. Loose bowel movements or diarrhea can also irritate the skin around the anus and buttocks.
Diaper rash can also occur when a baby drinks too little. The urine may become too concentrated and acidic, which can cause skin irritation and rash. Giving the baby extra fluids will clear up this type of diaper rash.
Also a yeast, or monilial, infection can occasionally cause a rash in the diaper area. It is different from ordinary diaper rash in that it is sharply circumscribed - that is, the outline of the rashy area is clearly defined. The infected area is very red (as well as moist and, sometimes, pimpled).
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