A diaper rash can be a very uncomfortable experience for your child. Not only is it irritating, but it can also be quite painful. And one of the most common questions that parents have is whether a diaper rash can spread.
The answer is yes, a diaper rash can spread. In this blog post, we will discuss how a diaper rash can spread and what you can do to prevent it from spreading. We will also discuss some of the symptoms of a diaper rash that has spread.
What causes diaper rash in babies?
An irritation, infection, or allergy causes diaper rashes (diaper dermatitis) and it is common in babies. However, only really an infection (yeast or bacterial) rash can spread, or an untreated diaper rash.
So you need to determine the type of rash you have and then decide how to treat it. If it’s an allergic reaction or an irritant it’s unlikely to spread once you deal with the cause of the irritation/allergy.
Infection
Urine alters the pH of the skin, allowing bacteria and fungi to thrive more easily. The ingredients that prevent diaper leaks also impede air circulation, resulting in a warm, wet environment in which bacteria and fungi can grow and cause a rash. And the skin may get irritated even further.
A yeast infection, often known as a fungal causes a yeast diaper rash that is bright, meaty, and red, and it is quite prevalent if the baby has been taking antibiotics treatment.
Candida is a common fungal microorganism that thrives in warm, moist environments such as the mouth. Candida is, in fact, the same bacterium that causes thrush.
Can a diaper rash spread all over the body?
Yes, if left untreated and not properly cared for. It is possible for a diaper rash to spread to other parts of the body like the stomach, arms and legs from the diaper region. This can occur when the skin is wet and irritated for an extended period of time.
Usually, it is important to keep the diaper area clean and dry to help avoid a rash from spreading. If you notice a rash starting to form on other parts of your child’s body or if it gets worse after 3 days, consult with your doctor for treatment options. She or he may order some tests to determine whether it is a bacterial infection or a fungal one.
What causes diaper dermatitis to spread from the diaper area?
Diaper dermatitis begins to spread from the diaper area if left untreated and in some cases exacerbated by other factors. Continued moisture can cause the rash to worsen and can even lead to a skin infection.
If the diaper area is rubbed raw from too much wiping, that can also create an opportunity for bacteria or fungus to take hold and spread. In some cases, if the child has diarrhea, the infectious material can get on a baby’s skin and further aggravate symptoms of diaper rash.
How do you stop a diaper rash from spreading?
- Change your baby’s dirty or wet diapers as quickly as possible, and thoroughly clean the affected region. Cleaning the diaper region gently with a soft cloth and warm water during the diaper change.
- Soak your baby’s bottom in warm water every now and then between diaper changes. You can use your hand to gently scoop the water over your baby’s bottom or squeeze it from a plastic container.
- Keep the skin dry and allow your baby’s skin to completely dry before putting on another nappy.
- When drying the skin, pat it gently with a soft towel rather than rubbing it – rubbing might irritate the skin.
- Wear the nappy loosely to avoid chafing.
- Frequently changing diapers. It is recommended that you change diapers every 2 hours or so, as well as after every pee and poop.
- Limiting the use of soap and other harsh skincare products. Use baby wipes sparingly, especially if they include alcohol.
- Whenever feasible, allow your youngster to go without a diaper. Allow the skin under a nappy to air dry from time to time.
- To avoid irritation of your baby, use a barrier ointment when you change diapers. Products containing zinc oxide or petroleum are excellent choices.
- Avoid using powders on your baby’s bottom, such as cornstarch or baby powder when you change diapers. Powder inhaled can irritate their lungs.
- If you use cloth diapers, follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. Use only the suggested amount of detergent, and run an extra rinse cycle after washing to remove any remnants of soap or detergent that may irritate your baby’s skin in the diaper.
- Fabric softeners and dryer sheets should be avoided because they can irritate the skin.
- 11. Don’t forget to wash your hands before and after each diaper change.
Conclusion
Diapers can be a great way to keep your baby clean and dry. However, if the nappy is not cleaned properly or rubbed too much, it can cause skin irritation and other symptoms of red diaper rash that can spread to other parts of their body like legs or stomach.
It’s important to make sure you’re keeping the diaper area as clean and dry as possible in order to prevent this from happening.
If you notice any signs of an infection by candida (which typically manifests itself with a bright red rash), consult your doctor for treatment options quickly before it spreads more.
