Our babies are the most important beings in our lives. Seeing them in pain can break anyone’s heart. Kids these days grow up in diapers until they are potty trained. Being wrapped up all day can cause infections and skin irritation like yeast diaper rashes.
A yeast infection is often mistaken for being a rash, but they are not the same. A regular rash is caused by an irritant. But in the case of a yeast infection, the yeast causes the rash. Yeast infections are quite common. However, it can be difficult to tame it if it grows.
About Yeast Infection
The yeast found in the diaper rash is called Candida. It thrives in moist and warm places, which is why diapers are one of its favorite places. If the infant or the feeding mother are on some antibiotics, the chances of a yeast infection increase. It is because the antibiotics kill the good bacteria and provide the yeast a favorable environment to grow in.
Other factors can contribute to yeast diaper rash like tight diapers, frequent bowel movement, acidic stool, reactions to products like soap, etc. Everyone has Candida in their bodies, but it proliferates quickly, especially in case of an untreated rash.
What are the Symptoms of Yeast Diaper Rash?
Knowing the symptoms will enable you to differentiate between yeast rash and typical yeast diaper rash. Some of the common symptoms of yeast diaper rash have been mentioned below.
- The rash has small red patches. If you look closely, you can see it blend with other patches.
- The rash has blisters or pimples that may be filled with pus.
- Typically, the rash stays in the diaper area and does not spread outside.
- The rash has a raised border that surrounds it.
- It does not go away even after one or two days of standard rash treatments.
- The rash often has additional irritation near the main rash area. It is often called ‘satellite’ lesions.
Do I need to visit a doctor?
Rashes are common in infants. Yet, many parents worry and wonder whether they should take the child to a specialist. You can try treating the rash with over-the-counter medicines. If the symptoms do not subside after three days of the infection, you can schedule an appointment.
However, if the child is running a fever along with the rash, then you should get it checked out. In some cases, the rashes start to ooze and may have open sores. This could be painful for the child. Therefore, you should pay a visit to the doctor at the earliest.
How Can I Treat A Yeast Infection?
Regular diaper creams and ointments are not helpful with yeast rashes, which is why it helps to know the difference. The doctor may recommend an antifungal cream along with a mild corticosteroid cream.
If an antifungal cream has been prescribed, then it helps to rub it in to help it absorb. Applying it would not be as effective. Using the cream around two to three times daily is good enough. Pat or air dry the area before you apply the cream.
How can I prevent the Yeast Diaper Rash?
You can take precautions to lower the chances of yeast rash. It would also help avoid other common types of rash and help keep the baby happy and healthy.
- Check the baby’s diaper often. Do not wait around to change wet diapers.
- Try not to put on the diaper too tightly. Allow enough space for the air to circulate.
- When the child poops, clean their bottoms thoroughly. Let it air dry completely before you put on a fresh pair of a diaper.
- If the child tends to develop rashes, let them roam free whenever you can.
- If you use cloth diapers, use a mild detergent and wash it thoroughly.
- Do not use wipes in case of a rash. Use water and maybe a mild, fragrance-free soap.
Chaffing and wetness are a few common causes of yeast diaper rash. All rashes look similar to the inexperienced eye. The problem arises when you try to treat the rash. Standard rash creams are of no help when it comes to yeast diaper rash.
Yeast Diaper InfectionMost rashes are due to the skin rather than the bacterial or fungal infection. Once the rash is treated, do not stop practicing the precautions above-mentioned. Practicing proper hygiene will reduce the chances of the yeast infection from making an unwelcome return.
Also Read: Considering Cloth-Diapering For Your Baby
