Skin irritation around the nappy area
Redness and rash most common
Variety of causes:
- Irritants (improved nappy design has reduced incidence)
- Candida yeast
- Psoriasis
- Seborrheic dermatitis
- Caused by too long contact with pee or poo
Symptoms:
- Redness and/or rash around the bum area
- May be hot to touch
- Itchy or painful bottom
- Behavioural changes – uncomfortable or distressed
Speak to doctor if:
- Yellow crusts or weeping – possible bacterial infection
- Broken skin
- More than 2 weeks duration
- With thrush:
- Oral
- Nappy area
- Other body areas also have rash
- High temperature
Treatment:
- “Satellite papules” – small, red lesions – sign of fungal infection – clotrimazole (azole antifungal)
- Dimeticone – water repellent
- Zinc – soothing agent
- Lanolin – emollient to hydrate skin
- Castor oil/Cod liver oil – water-resistant barrier
Counselling:
- Change nappies regularly
- Cleansing:
- Thorough with each nappy change
- Leave nappy off during cleansing
- Avoid
- Talcum powder
- Antiseptics
Shobz Pharmacy 