Nappy Rash

Nappy Rash

Nappy rash is common in babies right up to 20 months and is usually caused by chafing or wetness. Even the most absorbent nappy leaves some moisture on a baby's delicate new skin, while a baby left in a dirty nappy for too long may also develop nappy rash. Remember that a baby's skin is nearly half the thickness of adults' and therefore more delicate and prone to damage.

What causes it?
The most common cause of nappy rash is from microorganisms in baby's faeces coming into contact with urine to produce ammonia. This creates a change in the pH levels of the skin which can cause irritation.
Other causes can include an upset tummy or diarrhoea, a nappy rubbing against baby's skin – often a particular problem around the tops of chubby thighs and chemicals in some soaps or detergents used to wash baby or nappies.
There is also anecdotal evidence to suggest that teething and nappy rash can be linked, with babies often suffering from very runny poo whilst teething which can irritate the skin and lead to more cases of nappy rash.

What are the symptoms?
Unlike other rashes and eczema, nappy rash is recognised by redness and inflammation of the skin confined to the nappy area (more commonly around the genitals and the buttocks).
Symptoms can vary from a mild redness – sometimes with spots around the edge – to painful, open sores.

Nappy rash can also affect the top of their legs, the lower back and the folds and creases of the skin.

A sore bottom can often be detected by a grizzly baby.

The symptoms of nappy rash can vary, depending on how severe your child's rash is. In most cases, nappy rash onlyproduces mild symptoms.

Mild nappy rash
The nappy area will be covered in a pink rash, usually made up of small spots or blotches. Your baby should however feel well,in general and only experience a stinging sensation when passing urine or faeces. If mild, should only cover less than 10% of the nappy area.

Severe nappy rash
You will see more advanced and painful symptoms that include bright red spots, dry, cracked and broken skin, and swellings, ulcers and blisters on the skin.
It is likely to affect more than 10% of the nappy area, and may spread down the legs or up to the abdomen (tummy). Your child may cry more often than usual and be very irritable. This is because severe nappy rash can be very painful.
Contact your GP immediately if your child goes on to develop severely inflamed skin or a fever. This may be a sign that they have developed an infection.

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