Advice sheet – Nappy Rash
What is it?
Nappy rash is easily identified as a red, sore rash which develops around or under the baby’s nappy (sparing the skin creases which do not come in contact with the nappy), causing the baby discomfort and distress, leading to constant crying and loss of sleep for both baby and mother. Occasionally, the baby develops a superimposed fungal infection usually Candida (thrush) for which antibiotic treatment is needed. Your health visitor will prescribe a suitable cream. Thrush can be identified by clusters of red spots around the main rash area, usually in the creases of the skin. Nearly all babies get nappy rash at some time or other however beautifully they are cared for and it is not a reflection of their mother’s care.
What causes it?
The key cause of the rash is moisture, specifically, stale urine. Fresh urine does not injure the skin but stale urine, particularly if left in contact with the skin for long periods, breaks down to form ammonia which is the chemical which irritates and burns the skin, causing the rash. For this reason, it is imperative that urine (and therefore the ammonia) is washed off completely at every nappy change.
Even if nappies are changed regularly babies may develop nappy rash if they have any history of eczema or if they are on antibiotics which can cause diarrhoea, necessitating more frequent nappy changes.
Treatment
The basis for treatment is of course a dry bottom!! Frequent nappy changes and careful cleaning of the baby’s skin. Contrary to many sources of information you may have read this skin cleaning requires the use of soap and water nothing else will remove the ammonia completely. This may sound a bit harsh when confronted with a baby’s sore, red, skin but dabbing with water alone or using proprietary wipes (except for convenience when out and about) will not clean the ammonia off the skin. The idea is to thoroughly clean with soap which will remove the ammonia from the skin and then apply a moisturising cream. Products which combine cleansing and moisturising in one application do not do the job properly.
Use a mild, non perfumed soap specially for babies, rinse thoroughly, pat dry gently and apply a moisturising cream such as Rescue Remedy cream which is honey based and is anti inflammatory or organic Aloe Vera Gelly by Forever Living Products (also available as a spray) obtainable from 01844 354216 or zed139@live.co.uk. Other bland creams such as E45 are also recommended.
When I was a health visitor I was amazed at how quickly nappy rash would clear up if this regime was followed.
It also helps if you can leave the nappy off for a period of time each day to let the air get to the baby’s skin. If you are using non disposable nappies check your washing powder as some types can affect a baby’s skin if it is very sensitive.
For further information on any aspect of natural child health email your enquiry to info@naturalchildhealth.co.uk for a telephone consultation with our director or an email response to your enquiry. Please fill in the questionnaire and submit with the appropriate fee.
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