How to spot nappy rash

You can often quickly detect nappy rash by looking for these effects:

  • A slight redness in the nappy area(This tends not to affect the skin folds.)
  • Your baby’s bottom and upper thighs can become red and moist
  • Skin can also become sore, spotty and hot to touch
  • Patches of dry, flaky skin may also develop
  • In more severe cases, blisters and pus-filled spots may appear.

Nappy rash can be soothed, protected from coming back by using the Sudocrem at every nappy change.

 

Types of nappy rash

Normal nappy rash

The most common occurrence of nappy rash is when the skin looks red and sore, and can almost appear shiny. This is usually caused by your baby’s bottom being in contact with a dirty nappy for a prolonged period or if the baby has a bout of diarrhoea. It is often the combination of urine and faeces which causes the most irritation. Mild nappy rash should disappear after a few days of following the steps above — sometimes it can go over night.

 

Fungal nappy rash

Different types of nappy rash require different treatments. A fungal nappy rash is a form of thrush and treatment is often an anti-fungal cream which your GP will need to prescribe. This should be applied thinly to the affected area. The fungal rash shows as tiny red spots and the genitals can appear swollen and can sometimes occur if your baby is on antibiotics. It is important that, if the nappy rash is fungal, you avoid your usual barrier cream as this can make the condition worse. If you are unsure, ask your GP or Health Visitor for advice.

 

Bacterial nappy rash

A bacterial nappy rash shows as infected spots or pimples and your baby is likely to have a fever. It can develop from a normal nappy rash when the skin has broken and an infection has developed because of bacteria entering the broken skin. This type of nappy rash may well need antibiotics so you should see your GP for treatment advice and monitoring as soon as possible.