Napkin dermatitis (nappy rash) Skin Condition : What Is It ? Treatment and Advice For Patient
The common type of nappy rash is an irritant contact dermatitis, caused by urine and faeces being held next to the skin under occlusion. Bacteria in the faeces break down the urea in the urine into ammonia which irritates the skin.
Approximate age group
Nappy-wearing infants or children (rare after 12 months).
Presentation
The rash will be patchy and tends to involve the skin in contact with the nappy (buttocks, genitalia, thighs); the skin folds may be spared. Only erythema is present in mild cases, but erosion or even ulceration can occur in severe cases. The affected area is sore and cleaning or bathing causes much discomfort.
Treatment
Nappies should be changed as soon as they are wet or soiled and the skin gently cleaned and patted dry. A barrier cream or ointment should then be applied to the area covered by the nappy. Disposable nappies are more suitable than towelling ones while skin is affected as they are more effective at drawing liquid away from the skin. Avoid plastic pants.
Advice to parent/carer
In a child over nine months, 60–80mls of cranberry juice daily may help by altering the pH of the urine.
Traffic light
If the rash does not improve after taking these simple measures, a weak topical steroid such as 1% hydrocortisone can be applied once a day for 3–5 days
Napkin dermatitis (nappy rash) Skin Condition, Natural Treatment, Disease, Skin Condition
0 comments:
Post a Comment