What are the common causes of diaper rash. How can you identify a yeast diaper rash. What are the most effective home remedies for treating yeast diaper rash. When should you seek medical attention for diaper rash. How can you prevent recurrent diaper rash in infants.

Understanding Diaper Rash: Types and Causes

Diaper rash is a common condition affecting infants and toddlers, typically occurring in the diaper-wearing age group from birth to 3 years. It manifests as any rash on the skin covered by a diaper. To effectively treat and prevent diaper rash, it’s crucial to understand its various types and causes.

Common Types of Diaper Rash

• Irritant Diaper Rash
• Stool Diaper Rash
• Ammonia Diaper Rash
• Diarrhea Diaper Rash
• Yeast Diaper Rash
• Bacterial Diaper Rash

Each type of diaper rash has distinct characteristics and requires specific treatment approaches. Understanding these differences can help parents and caregivers provide appropriate care and seek medical attention when necessary.

Primary Causes of Diaper Rash

Diaper rash can be triggered by various factors, including:

1. Prolonged exposure to urine and stool
2. Friction from diapers rubbing against the skin
3. Irritation from soaps and wipes
4. Yeast or bacterial infections
5. Dietary changes (in the baby or breastfeeding mother)
6. Introduction of new products (e.g., new brand of diapers or wipes)

By identifying the underlying cause, parents can take targeted steps to alleviate symptoms and prevent future occurrences.

Recognizing Yeast Diaper Rash: Symptoms and Characteristics

Yeast diaper rash, caused by an overgrowth of Candida fungi, has distinct features that set it apart from other types of diaper rash. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for proper treatment.

Key Indicators of Yeast Diaper Rash

• Bright red, inflamed skin in the diaper area
• Sharp, well-defined borders to the rash
• Possible satellite lesions (small red spots) beyond the main rash area
• Persistent rash that doesn’t improve with standard diaper rash treatments
• Rash may appear raw, weepy, or scaly

Is a yeast diaper rash always accompanied by a distinct odor. While some parents report a slightly sweet or yeasty smell associated with Candida infections, this is not a definitive diagnostic feature. The visual appearance and persistence of the rash are more reliable indicators.

Home Remedies for Treating Yeast Diaper Rash

While severe cases of yeast diaper rash may require medical intervention, many cases can be effectively managed at home. Here are some proven remedies:

Natural Antifungal Treatments

• Coconut Oil: Apply a thin layer of organic, unrefined coconut oil to the affected area. Its natural antifungal properties can help combat yeast growth.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Dilute apple cider vinegar with water (1:8 ratio) and use it to cleanse the diaper area during changes. The acidic environment can inhibit yeast growth.
• Probiotics: Consider adding probiotic-rich foods to your baby’s diet (if age-appropriate) or applying probiotic powder directly to the rash.

Diaper Area Care Techniques

How can you effectively manage the diaper area during a yeast infection? Implement these strategies:

1. Frequent Diaper Changes: Change diapers promptly and often to minimize moisture and potential irritants.
2. Air Exposure: Allow the affected area to “breathe” by giving your baby diaper-free time each day.
3. Gentle Cleaning: Use warm water and a soft cloth to clean the area, avoiding harsh wipes or soaps.
4. Pat Dry: Gently pat the area dry instead of rubbing to prevent further irritation.
5. Barrier Cream: Apply a zinc oxide-based cream to create a protective barrier between the skin and diaper.

Medical Treatments for Persistent Yeast Diaper Rash

When home remedies prove ineffective, medical interventions may be necessary. Consult your pediatrician if the rash persists or worsens despite home treatment.

Antifungal Medications

What are the most commonly prescribed treatments for yeast diaper rash? Healthcare providers often recommend:

• Over-the-counter antifungal creams (e.g., clotrimazole, miconazole)
• Prescription-strength antifungal ointments
• Oral antifungal medications (in severe cases)

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the application and duration of treatment.

Preventing Recurrent Yeast Diaper Rash

Prevention is key in managing diaper rash, especially for babies prone to yeast infections. Implement these strategies to reduce the risk of recurrence:

Diapering Best Practices

1. Change diapers frequently, especially after bowel movements
2. Ensure the diaper area is completely dry before putting on a new diaper
3. Use breathable, absorbent diapers to reduce moisture
4. Avoid tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants over cloth diapers
5. Consider using cloth diapers, which may reduce the risk of yeast infections for some babies

Dietary Considerations

Can dietary changes help prevent yeast diaper rash? While research is limited, some parents and healthcare providers suggest:

• Limiting sugar and refined carbohydrates in the baby’s diet (for older infants and toddlers)
• Incorporating probiotic-rich foods or supplements (under pediatric guidance)
• For breastfed infants, mothers may consider reducing their own intake of yeast-promoting foods

Always consult with your pediatrician before making significant dietary changes for your baby.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Diaper Rash

While many cases of diaper rash can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant professional medical evaluation. Be alert for the following signs:

Red Flags Requiring Immediate Care

• Bright red skin that peels off in sheets
• Fever accompanied by signs of infection (spreading redness)
• Any abnormal symptoms in infants under 1 month old
• Pimples, blisters, boils, yellow scabs, or open sores
• Rash that spreads beyond the diaper area
• Persistent rash that doesn’t improve after 3 days of treatment

Do all diaper rashes require medical attention? No, mild cases often resolve with home care. However, if you’re unsure or concerned about your baby’s symptoms, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional.

Comprehensive Diaper Area Care for Healthy Skin

Maintaining healthy skin in the diaper area requires a holistic approach that goes beyond treating active rashes. Implement these practices for optimal skin health:

Daily Skincare Routine

1. Gentle Cleansing: Use warm water and a soft cloth for routine cleaning. Reserve mild, fragrance-free soap for thorough cleaning after bowel movements.
2. Proper Drying: Pat the skin dry thoroughly, paying special attention to skin folds and creases.
3. Barrier Protection: Apply a thin layer of zinc oxide or petroleum-based ointment to create a protective barrier.
4. Diaper Fit: Ensure diapers are not too tight, allowing for air circulation.
5. Regular Skin Checks: Inspect the diaper area daily for any signs of irritation or infection.

Environmental Considerations

How does the environment impact diaper rash risk? Consider these factors:

• Temperature and Humidity: Hot, humid conditions can increase the risk of diaper rash. Ensure good air circulation and consider using talc-free powder in skin folds during warm weather.
• Laundry Practices: For cloth diapers, use hypoallergenic detergents and rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residues.
• Swimming and Beach Visits: Change out of wet swimwear promptly and rinse the diaper area with fresh water after swimming in pools or the ocean.

By implementing these comprehensive care strategies, parents can significantly reduce the risk of diaper rash and promote overall skin health in their infants and toddlers.

The Role of Skin pH in Diaper Rash Prevention

Understanding the importance of skin pH can provide valuable insights into preventing and managing diaper rash, particularly yeast infections.

Balancing Skin pH

Why is skin pH important in diaper rash prevention? The skin’s natural pH is slightly acidic, which helps protect against harmful bacteria and fungi. Urine and feces can alter this pH balance, creating an environment more conducive to irritation and infection.

• Normal skin pH: 4.5-6.5
• Optimal pH for yeast growth: 6.5-7.5

To maintain a healthy skin pH in the diaper area:

1. Use pH-balanced cleansers specifically designed for babies
2. Avoid harsh soaps and wipes that can disrupt the skin’s natural pH
3. Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar (as mentioned earlier) to help restore acidic pH
4. Choose diapers and products that help maintain optimal skin pH

By focusing on pH balance, parents can create an environment less favorable for yeast growth and more resistant to irritation.

The Impact of Antibiotics on Diaper Rash

Antibiotics, while necessary for treating bacterial infections, can inadvertently increase the risk of yeast diaper rash. Understanding this connection can help parents take proactive measures.

Antibiotics and Yeast Overgrowth

How do antibiotics contribute to yeast diaper rash? Antibiotics eliminate both harmful and beneficial bacteria, potentially disrupting the natural balance of microorganisms on the skin and in the gut. This disruption can lead to an overgrowth of Candida yeast.

If your baby is prescribed antibiotics:

• Be vigilant for signs of yeast diaper rash
• Consider probiotic supplementation (consult your pediatrician)
• Increase the frequency of diaper changes
• Apply a barrier cream with each diaper change
• Monitor for signs of oral thrush, another potential consequence of antibiotic use

By being aware of this connection and taking preventive steps, parents can minimize the risk of antibiotic-associated yeast diaper rash.

Cloth vs. Disposable Diapers: Impact on Diaper Rash

The choice between cloth and disposable diapers can influence the occurrence and management of diaper rash, including yeast infections. Both types have pros and cons when it comes to skin health.

Comparing Diaper Types

Do cloth diapers reduce the risk of diaper rash compared to disposables? The answer isn’t straightforward, as both have potential benefits and drawbacks:

Cloth Diapers:

• Pros: More breathable, free from chemicals found in some disposables
• Cons: May retain moisture if not changed frequently, require thorough cleaning to prevent bacterial growth

Disposable Diapers:

• Pros: Highly absorbent, can keep skin drier for longer periods
• Cons: May contain irritating chemicals, can create a warmer, more humid environment conducive to yeast growth

Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual factors such as your baby’s skin sensitivity, your laundry capabilities, and your lifestyle. Regardless of the type chosen, proper changing practices and skin care remain crucial in preventing diaper rash.

Long-Term Skin Health: Beyond the Diaper Years

While diaper rash is a temporary concern, the skin care habits established during infancy can have lasting impacts on a child’s dermatological health.

Building a Foundation for Healthy Skin

How can early skin care practices influence future skin health? Consider these long-term benefits:

1. Developing a Skincare Routine: Early introduction to regular skin care can establish lifelong habits.
2. Understanding Skin Sensitivity: Managing diaper rash helps parents identify and address their child’s specific skin needs.
3. Preventing Chronic Issues: Proper care during infancy may reduce the risk of chronic skin conditions later in life.
4. Promoting Body Awareness: Regular skin checks and care foster a child’s understanding of their body and health.

By viewing diaper rash management as part of a broader approach to skin health, parents can set the stage for their child’s lifelong dermatological well-being.

In conclusion, understanding the nuances of diaper rash, particularly yeast-related infections, empowers parents to provide effective care and prevention. By implementing comprehensive skincare strategies, maintaining awareness of contributing factors, and seeking medical attention when necessary, parents can ensure their baby’s comfort and skin health throughout the diaper-wearing years and beyond.

Diaper Rash

Is this your child’s symptom?

• Any rash on the skin covered by a diaper
• Age: Diaper-wearing age group (birth to 3 years)

Causes of Diaper Rash

• Irritant Diaper Rash. Mild rashes can be caused by the drying effect of soaps.
• Stool Diaper Rash. Stool left on the skin can be very irritating because it contains bacteria. Urine alone has no germs in it and usually doesn’t irritate the skin. This rash is common on the scrotum or anywhere that stool can hide. Small ulcers around the anus are often from prolonged stool contact.
• Ammonia Diaper Rash. Stool and urine left in diaper too long can combine to make ammonia. It can cause a mild chemical burn. The fumes when you change the diaper will smell like ammonia. This is more common with cloth diapers.
• Diarrhea Diaper Rash. Rashes just found around the anus are common during bouts of diarrhea. Diarrhea stools also contain enzymes that digest food and irritate the skin.
• Yeast Diaper Rash. Rashes from irritants can get a secondary infection with yeast. Yeast infections are bright red. They can be raw and weepy. The borders are sharp. Small red bumps or even pimples may occur just beyond the border. If treated correctly, a diaper rash should be cured in 3 days. If not, it has probably been invaded by yeast. Treat with an anti-yeast cream.
• Bacterial Diaper Rash. Bacteria can also cause a secondary infection of irritated skin. This is less common than yeast rashes. Bacteria cause sores, yellow scabs, pimples or draining pus. They look like impetigo, a local skin bacterial infection. Can also become a painful red lump (boil)
• Cellulitis (Serious). The bacterial infection spreads into the skin. Gives redness that spreads out from the sore. The red area is painful to the touch.
• Staph Scalded Skin Syndrome (Serious). SSSS is caused by a Staph bacteria. The main finding is widespread large blisters. The skin is bright red. The baby acts very sick.

Symptoms of Diaper Rash

• Mild rashes just have areas of pink, dry skin.
• Severe rashes have areas of red skin. In some areas, the skin may become raw or even bleed.
• Pink rashes are not painful, but raw ones can be very painful. This can lead crying and poor sleep.

Prevention of Recurrent Diaper Rash

• Change diapers more often. Focus on preventing skin contact with stool.
• Rinse your baby’s skin with lots of warm water when cleaning off stool. Don’t depend on diaper wipes alone to cleanse the skin.
• Be sure to clean stool off all the skin folds. Cleaning the scrotum can be a challenge.

When to Call for Diaper Rash

Call Doctor or Seek Care Now

• Bright red skin that peels off in sheets
• Fever and looks infected (spreading redness)
• Age less than 1 month old with tiny water blisters or pimples in a group
• Age less than 1 month old and looks infected (yellow scabs, spreading redness)
• Age less than 1 month old and looks or acts abnormal in any way
• Your child looks or acts very sick
• You think your child needs to be seen, and the problem is urgent

Contact Doctor Within 24 Hours

• Any pimples, blisters, boils, yellow scabs, or open sores
• You think your child needs to be seen, but the problem is not urgent

Contact Doctor During Office Hours

• Rash is very raw or bleeds
• Rash has spread outside the diaper area
• Rash is not better after 3 days of using yeast cream
• You have other questions or concerns

Self Care at Home

• Mild diaper rash

Seattle Children’s Urgent Care Locations

If your child’s illness or injury is life-threatening, call 911.

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  Bellevue
  
  
  
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  Everett
  
  
  
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  Federal Way
  
  
  
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  Seattle
  
  
  
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  Virtual Urgent Care
  
  
  

Care Advice for Diaper Rash

1. What You Should Know About Diaper Rashes:
   • Diaper rashes are very common in babies.
   • Often caused by not cleaning stool off the skin soon enough.
   • Stool is a strong irritant to the skin.
   • Here’s some care advice that should help.
2. Change More Often:
   • Change diapers more often to prevent skin contact with stool.
   • You may want to get up once during the night to change the diaper.
3. Rinse with Warm Water:
   • Rinse the baby’s skin with lots of warm water during each diaper change.
   • Wash with a mild soap (such as Dove) only after stools. Reason: using soap often can interfere with healing.
   • Do not use diaper wipes. Reason: they leave a film of bacteria on the skin.
4. Leave Bottom Open to Air:
   • Expose the bottom to air as much as possible.
   • Attach the diaper loosely at the waist to help with air exposure.
   • When napping, take the diaper off and lay your child on a towel. Reason: dryness reduces the risk of yeast infections.
5. Anti-Yeast Cream:
   • Most diaper rashes respond to 3 days of warm water cleansing and air exposure. If you’ve tried this or the rash is bright red, suspect a yeast infection.
   • Buy an anti-yeast cream (such as Lotrimin.) No prescription is needed.
   • Use this cream 3 times per day.
6. Raw Skin – Treatment:
   • If the bottom is very raw, soak in warm water for 10 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of baking soda to the tub of warm water.
   • Do this 3 times per day.
   • Then, put an anti-yeast ointment (such as Lotrimin) on the rash.
7. Pain Medicine:
   • To help with the pain, give an acetaminophen product (such as Tylenol).
   • Another choice is an ibuprofen product (such as Advil). Avoid ibuprofen under 6 months of age.
   • Use as needed.
   • Age less than 3 months. Don’t use pain medicines unless your doctor says it’s okay. Have your child seen if the rash is causing a lot of pain.
8. Sore or Scab on End of the Penis Treatment:
   • Use an antibiotic ointment (such as Polysporin). No prescription is needed.
   • Do this 3 times per day.
   • Reason: the sore is a bacterial infection that can cause painful urination.
9. Diarrhea Rash – Use Protective Ointment:
   • If your child has diarrhea and a rash around the anus, use a protective ointment. Examples are Vaseline or Desitin.
   • This forms a barrier between the skin and the stool.
   • Otherwise, these generally are not needed.
   • Caution: wash off the skin before putting it on.
10. What to Expect:
    • With proper treatment, most diaper rashes are better in 3 days.
    • If the rash does not respond, a yeast infection has probably occurred.
11. Call Your Doctor If:
    • Rash isn’t much better after 3 days of using yeast cream
    • It starts to look infected (with sores and scabs)
    • You think your child needs to be seen
    • Your child becomes worse

And remember, contact your doctor if your child develops any of the ‘Call Your Doctor’ symptoms.

Disclaimer: this health information is for educational purposes only. You, the reader, assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it.

Last Reviewed: 07/22/2023

Last Revised: 12/30/2022

Copyright 2000-2023. Schmitt Pediatric Guidelines LLC.

Yeast Diaper Rash: Symptoms, Pictures, Home Remedies

Diaper rashes are a common problem for babies. But, a yeast diaper rash is different than regular diaper rash. With a regular diaper rash, an irritant causes the rash. But with a yeast diaper rash, yeast (Candida) causes the rash.

A yeast diaper rash is different than regular diaper rash. With a regular diaper rash, an irritant causes the rash. But with a yeast diaper rash, yeast (Candida) causes the rash.

Yeast is a living microorganism. It naturally lives on skin but can be hard to tame when there’s an overgrowth.

Anyone using a diaper can develop a yeast diaper rash. Read on to learn how to identify, treat, and prevent this type of diaper rash.

Yeast diaper rashes require different treatment than a standard diaper rash, so it’s important to be able to identify the type of rash.

Yeast can be present on the skin and in other parts of the body with no symptoms or negative effects. However, if the yeast overgrows, it can cause an infection in the area. Overgrowth often happens in warm, moist areas or where a regular diaper rash already exists.

The goal of treating a yeast infection in the diaper area is to heal the skin and reduce exposure to yeast.

The following home remedies may help treat the infection.

Keep the area clean

Gently and thoroughly clean the whole diaper area every time you change the diaper. It can help remove yeast and also reduce the risk of other infections.

It’s also important to thoroughly wash your hands and anything your baby laid on during the diaper change. This can help prevent the spread of the yeast.

Keep the area dry

Change your baby more frequently. If you notice their diaper is wet, change them right away. Yeast thrives in warm, damp areas, so keeping the area dry can help stop the spread of the yeast.

In addition to more frequent diaper changes, also allow baby’s bottom to air dry between changes. Gently pat the area dry, but avoid rubbing, which can further irritate the skin. You can use a hair dryer on the low, cool setting to help speed up the drying process.

Have diaper-free time

Give baby extended time without any diaper on to further help dry out the diaper area. This can get messy, so consider having diaper-free time in areas of your home that are easy to clean, or put a towel or play mat under baby to help catch any messes.

To further reduce the risk of messes, have diaper-free time immediately after a diaper change. If baby has recently gone to the bathroom, they’re less likely to need to go again anytime soon.

For younger babies, you can do diaper-free time during their usual tummy time. For sitting babies, place books and engaging toys around them to try and keep them entertained on the towel.

Avoid irritants

The infected area will be tender. Irritating products can make discomfort worse, like soap and bubble bath.

You may also want to hold off on using wipes during diaper changes. Instead, use a clean towel that’s been dampened in warm water to clean the diaper area.

Use antifungal creams

The above measures can help treat the symptoms of a yeast diaper rash and may help it to go away faster, but most yeast rashes need further treatment. Ask your doctor about using an antifungal or yeast cream. Many can be purchased over the counter.

Ask your pharmacist or doctor for specific instructions, such as how often to use each day and for how long to use the treatment.

You can also ask your doctor about applying gentian violet. This is a dark purple ointment known to kill yeast, but it may not be as effective as other antifungal treatments. If you do use it, be very careful when applying, as it stains clothing.

Are natural remedies safe to use?

Ask your doctor before using natural remedies like vinegar or oils. Natural doesn’t always mean safe.

If your doctor gives you the OK, remember that a small amount goes a long way, so be sure to dilute products well.

Does baby powder help?

There’s mixed information about whether or not it’s safe to use baby powder to try to keep the diaper area dry and help prevent a yeast rash. Many believe yeast will feed on cornstarch. Cornstarch is the main ingredient in many baby powders.

As part of an older study from 1984, researchers tested for this and found no correlation between cornstarch use and increased yeast growth.

However, baby powder hasn’t been shown to treat a yeast diaper rash that’s already present. In fact, it’s not recommended to use baby powder on children, as inhaling it can damage their lungs.

Always see a doctor if your baby is very fussy, seems sick, or the rash looks infected. Doctors can help create a treatment plan to alleviate pain and help your baby heal fast.

Also see a doctor if the rash has lasted for more than a few days or isn’t responding to treatment.

In many cases, a doctor can identify a yeast infection through a physical examination of the rash. Sometimes, though, the doctor may need to scrape off a bit of skin to test for yeast or bacterial infection in the rash.

Most diaper rashes can be treated without prescriptions. Rarely, a diaper rash may be serious and affect other parts of the body. Severe yeast infections may be treated with medicated suppositories or oral antifungal medication.

Sometimes what appears as a yeast rash can actually be a bacterial infection. This is a serious issue. It may require antibiotics to treat and prevent further complications.

Possible complications from diaper rash include scabbing skin, bleeding, and irritability.

In extreme cases, a yeast diaper rash can infect other parts of the body, like skin and blood. This is more serious and needs to be urgently treated by a doctor.

Babies with a yeast diaper rash may also develop thrush. If you breastfeed, you may develop a yeast rash on your breasts.

Most diaper rashes should improve after two to three days of treatment. However, yeast infections can take several weeks to heal since the yeast is a living organism that needs to be killed.

You’ll know your baby has recovered once the rash has disappeared and the skin is healed.

Call your doctor if diaper rash is persistent, doesn’t improve, gets worse with treatment, or is very painful.

The steps to prevent a yeast diaper rash are similar to many of the steps you can use to treat it at home.

Diaper rashes are very common since diapers are often warm and moist. Keeping your baby clean and as dry as possible is the best way to prevent rashes and a yeast diaper rash.

Consider these preventive tips:

• Regularly bathe baby in warm water. Clean their diaper area each time you change their diaper.
• Change diapers often. Avoid leaving baby in a wet diaper.
• Let baby’s bottom air-dry for as long as possible after every diaper change. Patting baby’s bum with a soft cloth or using a blow dryer on the cool-air setting may help speed up the process.
• Give baby regular diaper-free time.
• Don’t use rubber pants or diapers that prevent air flow. These can trap moisture near skin.
• Consider using a diaper cream to help protect your baby’s skin. Creams provide a barrier from urine and stool, which can irritate skin and make it prone to developing a rash.
• Avoid baby products that contain fragrances and dyes, such as lotions or soaps. These additives can irritate the skin.
• Don’t give baby unnecessary antibiotics, as they can cause an imbalance of healthy bacteria and yeasts in the body.

A yeast diaper rash is different than a regular diaper rash because it involves a microorganism (yeast) and not just irritated skin.

Treating a yeast diaper rash can be more difficult than treating a regular diaper rash. Most yeast diaper rashes can be treated at home, but see a doctor if your baby is very uncomfortable, the rash isn’t improving or keeps recurring, or if you think your baby has thrush.

Diaper rash under the breast – causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

Diaper rash under the breast is an infectious and inflammatory skin disease that occurs in the submammary folds due to increased humidity and infection. Intertrigo predisposes to personal hygiene and excessive sweating. It manifests itself in the form of redness, which is limited to areas of contact skin, maceration with an unpleasant odor, whitish or purulent plaque. Diagnosis is based on clinical data, supplemented by microbiological examination. For treatment, local remedies with antiseptic, drying, antibacterial action are used.

General

Intertrigo, or intertriginous dermatitis, is more commonly diagnosed in women. Rarely, the disease appears in men with gynecomastia and obesity, as well as concomitant diabetes mellitus. The frequency of diaper rash in the folds of the mammary glands among the female increases with age. This is due to characteristic changes in skin function, a decrease in immunity and an increase in breast volume. Many women refuse to use a bra with age, which increases the risk of developing diaper rash with a large mammary gland.

Intertrigo under the breast

Causes

Diaper rash under the breast requires a combination of several factors to develop. Under normal conditions, sweat has bactericidal properties and prevents the growth of microorganisms. But with a combination of sweating, some systemic diseases or special conditions against the background of skin friction under the breast, diaper rash occurs. The main causes of pathology are:

• Hyperhidrosis . With increased sweating and lack of skin ventilation, uric acid, urea, chlorides remain on the surface of the skin, causing damage, maceration. In lactating women, the temperature of the mammary glands rises, so sweating increases in the folds under them.
• Violations of personal hygiene . Refusal to wear a bra for large breasts leads to mastoptosis, the skin inside the fold is tightly in contact, does not allow sweat to evaporate. If a woman ignores water procedures, especially in the heat, sweat becomes a breeding ground for bacteria.
• Endocrine pathologies . Sweating and the risk of diaper rash increase with hyperthyroidism, and in patients with diabetes mellitus, Itsenko-Cushing’s syndrome, the pathology is often combined with a fungal or microbial infection. Skin candidiasis in diabetes can develop not only under the breast, but also in any skin folds.
• Decreased immunity . With age, there is a natural decrease in immune defense, a change in the composition of sweat. Its reaction can change from acidic to neutral. Therefore, older women with macromastia are more likely to develop intertriginous dermatitis.
• Pregnancy . In pregnant women, the growing belly and mammary glands form an area of ​​close contact. In this case, a cotton bra can protect against skin thorns. If not worn, diaper rash may appear under the breasts. The risk also increases from a natural decrease in immunity in pregnant women.

Pathogenesis

Sweat glands produce sweat continuously. On average, up to 800 ml of it is released per day, and with increased sweating, much more. In the folds of the dermis, it does not evaporate, but mixes with the secretion of the sebaceous glands and becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. Constant humidity, friction during movement creates areas of maceration. The skin becomes inflamed, swelling and redness occur.

Active bacterial growth intensifies the damage. Small vesicles with purulent contents appear in the dermis. Candidiasis infection may join. The fungus infects the upper layer of the dermis, forms colonies that macroscopically look like a white coating. When it is separated with a spatula or cotton swab, a smooth layer of skin is exposed, which bleeds easily.

With successful treatment, the surface of the skin begins to dry out and may begin to peel off. Healing occurs without the formation of a rough scar, diaper rash does not damage the basal layer of the skin. But with the preservation of risk factors, uncontrolled diabetes, immunodeficiency, the likelihood of a recurrence of diaper rash is high. It can also be combined with a similar process in the armpits, in the groin, between the buttocks.

Classification

Diaper rash in the folds of the breast may be associated with a non-specific microbial infection or candidiasis. Rarely, dermatitis is caused by other types of fungus or allergies. In clinical practice, classification is used depending on the type of pathogen. This allows you to navigate the methods of treatment. The course of the disease is classified as follows:

• Stage 1 . The skin turns red, looks swollen, but their integrity is not broken.
• Stage 2 . The upper layer of the skin is damaged, cracks, bubbles, sores appear on it.
• Stage 3 . Severe inflammation with the addition of a fungal infection or bacterial infection.

Symptoms of diaper rash under the breasts

Before the development of a vivid clinical picture, a woman feels discomfort under her breasts, skin itching appears, which may periodically intensify. Then the skin turns red, looks swollen. A burning sensation joins the itching under the breast. A woman combs the site of inflammation, injures it, which further worsens the symptoms. At first, hygienic procedures alleviate the condition, but after taking a shower, skin tightness is felt, itching may intensify.

Pustular eruptions appear on the skin of the chest. Their contents may be pus or exudate. They spontaneously open, the diaper rash becomes weeping. Exudation continues through the inflamed tissue surface. Liquid discharge increases discomfort, and the affected area can gradually capture healthy skin. The general condition at this stage does not suffer, but an unpleasant odor appears.

Accession of infection can occur at any stage. Opportunistic bacteria get from healthy skin while combing the foci. They actively multiply, form purulent foci. With a candidal lesion, persistent itching is noted, white films and grains are visible on the skin, which are easily separated with a spatula. The skin then begins to bleed. Peeling may appear along the edges of the diaper rash.

Complications

Diaper rash in the skin folds of the breast rarely occurs with complications. Sometimes, with untimely treatment, a bacterial infection can penetrate into the deeper layers of tissues. In advanced cases, this leads to the formation of phlegmon. Its development is accompanied by an increase in temperature, the addition of symptoms of intoxication, and a general deterioration in the condition. Phlegmon requires surgical treatment. If a woman retains trigger factors, then diaper rash becomes chronic, under the influence of treatment, her symptoms may decrease, and later recur.

Diagnosis

When examining women with diaper rash of the skin of the mammary glands, it is necessary to carefully collect anamnesis, take into account age, social status. Diagnosis is carried out by a dermatologist, in case of diagnosed diabetes, hyperthyroidism or other hormonal diseases, consultation of an endocrinologist is necessary. The following methods are used for diagnosis:

• Bacterioscopic . A smear is taken from the focus to determine the type of pathogens. The results reveal coccal flora, desquamated epithelial cells, leukocytes, with fungal infection – hyphae and yeast cells.
• Cultural. Used when therapy is ineffective to clarify the composition of the microflora and determine sensitivity to antibiotics. With the fungal form of diaper rash, the method allows you to differentiate Candida and actinomycetes and identify which antimycotics are effective.
• Hematological examinations . A blood test for glucose, a glucose tolerance test is necessary for patients with diabetes mellitus or if it is suspected. According to indications, a study of thyroid hormones, adrenal glands is carried out.

Treatment of diaper rash under the breast

In the acute period, a sparing diet is prescribed, irritating foods, spicy, salty, sweet, as well as foods that can cause allergies are excluded. A woman should wear a cotton bra without supportive underwires, which injure the skin and increase friction. Careful hygiene is necessary, showers are taken 2 times a day using baby soap. Air baths are periodically carried out.

Conservative therapy

Treatment is carried out at home, in severe cases hospitalization is required in a dermatovenerological dispensary. Most drugs are used topically. Systemic therapy is carried out with prolonged infectious processes. Physiotherapy is prescribed as an auxiliary method that complements drug therapy. The courses are carried out with UVR of the affected area. The following types of preparations are used:

• Antiseptic solutions . Helps to disinfect the skin, inhibit the activity of bacteria. Apply chlorhexidine, miramistin, furacillin. Decoctions of string, chamomile, calendula have an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effect.
• Drying agents . Allow to reduce exudation, reduce the activity of sweat glands, stop the progression of inflammation. Apply preparations with copper sulfate, zinc paste, resorcinol solution. Teimurov’s ointment based on boric and salicylic acid, zinc, talc and other substances is effective; Lassar’s paste can be used.
• Reparative agents . Preparations with dexpanthenol help to speed up the restoration of the skin, soften the dermis at the site of diaper rash. It nourishes the skin, penetrates the cells, where it turns into pantothenic acid and accelerates cell division.
• Hormonal ointments . Glucocorticoids have a pronounced antipruritic and anti-inflammatory effect, after application, redness and swelling decrease, discomfort under the mammary gland disappears. But prolonged use leads to the development of candidiasis.
• Antibacterials . Ointments and creams with antibiotics are used prophylactically in women at risk for infection or to treat inflammation with confirmed bacterial contamination. Use a solution of aluminum acetate, streptocide powder, lincomycin liniment.
• Antifungals . They are prescribed after confirmation of candidiasis in the inframammary fold. Effective preparations based on pimafucin, nystatin, clotrimazole, miconazole. They help to suppress the growth and reproduction of fungi, reduce itching, and relieve burning sensation.

Surgical treatment

Surgical treatment is required for a widespread infection that does not respond to antibiotic treatment and is constantly progressing. If the inflammation has passed to the subcutaneous fat, a phlegmon has formed, it is opened surgically. For treatment, the woman is hospitalized in the surgical department. After intervention on the chest, conservative therapy is prescribed.

Prognosis and prevention

With timely treatment and following the doctor’s recommendations, the prognosis for diaper rash of the skin under the breast is favorable. The main measure of prevention is the observance of hygiene standards. Women need to shower daily, wear underwear made from natural fabrics, and use antiperspirants if they tend to sweat. Places of diaper rash should not be powdered with starch-based products, so as not to provoke a fungal infection. You also need to treat concomitant diseases, follow a diet for diabetes and choose the right main treatment.

Baby Diaper Baby Online Pharmacy

Baby Diaper Rash Online Pharmacy

What is diaper dermatitis?

Diaper rash occurs when a baby’s skin is irritated by wet or dirty diapers. Children with sensitive skin are more likely to develop rashes. This condition also occurs when urine or stool contained in a diaper is in contact with the skin for too long, after which the skin becomes irritated and red.

Diaper rash, or diaper rash, is an inflammation of the skin that can be caused by prolonged contact of a baby’s skin with a diaper soiled with feces or urine. Diaper cleaners and teething products may also cause skin irritation .
Plain red , irritated with small rashes or scratched and crayfish colors? Your child’s butt hurts!

How to prevent diaper rash in children?

Normally harmless diaper rash can spread and become superinfected if not properly treated. The first thing to do is keep the baby’s skin as dry as possible . So be sure to change his diapers every 2 hours and keep his buttocks outdoors for as long as possible to avoid maceration. You can also choose 100% cotton diapers, until the discomfort disappears.

It is best to avoid disposable wipes, even if they are for sensitive skin. Their formula may indeed contain alcohol or fragrances that irritate the skin . It is better to wash the baby’s bottom with a little warm water and dry it with a soft, clean towel.
Very appreciated by dry skin, you can use surgras soap while washing to nourish baby’s skin and prevent it from drying out.

Which anti-redness cream should I choose?

During the shift, after cleaning the buttocks, apply anti-redness protection cream . There are treatments called water pastes, or treatments based on copper and zinc, specially designed for treatment of erythema.

Treatment with dexpanthenol helps soothe the child’s irritation . The active ingredient contained in it is very quickly transformed into pantothenic acid, it plays an essential role as a component of coenzyme A, which is involved in the process of cell repair, , thus, it contributes to the regeneration of cells and the restoration of the skin epithelium.

Bepanthen ointment is specially formulated for the treatment of skin irritation for reddening of the buttocks in infants . It is effective at the first symptoms of erythema due to its composition perfectly adapted to the skin of babies. It contains a healing active ingredient that helps regenerate the skin and a fatty phase that protects the skin from external aggressions.