Diaper Dermatitis

Diaper Dermatitis services offered in Great Neck, NY

About 70% of babies and children end up with diaper dermatitis during their years of wearing diapers. If your child has inflamed skin or a rash in areas covered by a diaper, see expert pediatric dermatologist Jonathan Trager, MD, at TeleDerm Kidz in Great Neck, New York. He offers treatments that ease irritation and clear up your child’s skin. Schedule a telehealth evaluation by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.

Diaper Dermatitis Q&A

What is diaper dermatitis?

Diaper dermatitis is skin irritation in the area covered by a diaper. It’s common in babies, toddlers, and other people who wear diapers regularly. However, without treatment, diaper dermatitis can lead to skin discomfort. It also increases the risk of an infection. Seek treatment at the first sign of a diaper rash to avoid worsening complications.

What are the symptoms of diaper dermatitis?

Diaper dermatitis can cause the following symptoms:

Inflamed skin
Irritation
Itching
Rash
Redness
Warmth
Blisters
Open sores
Swelling

A diaper rash may appear in a few areas or the entire surface of skin covered by diapers. Babies may cry more frequently due to a painful diaper rash.

What are the risk factors for diaper dermatitis?

Diaper dermatitis is caused by urine and feces irritating the skin. Risk factors for developing this rash include:

Chafing
Rubbing the diaper area
Excess moisture in diapers
Yeast infections
Bacterial infections
Allergic reactions
Not changing diapers often enough
Frequent bowel movements
Having a poopy diaper overnight
Diarrhea
Antibiotic use
Eating solid foods

Changing your child’s diaper frequently helps reduce the risk of diaper dermatitis, but it can still develop in some cases. Treatment offers symptom relief.

How is diaper dermatitis diagnosed?

Dr. Trager diagnoses diaper dermatitis by reviewing your child’s medical history and symptoms and completing a physical exam. He often diagnoses the rash by simply looking at it and offers treatment recommendations based on the severity of diaper dermatitis.

How is diaper dermatitis treated?

Treating diaper dermatitis may include:

More frequent diaper changes
Periods of time without diapers
Antifungal creams
Ointments
Antibiotic medications
Corticosteroid creams
Keeping the skin clean and dry
Not using strong soaps, harsh detergents, or scented wipes
Avoid rubbing irritated skin
Securing diapers loosely, especially overnight

Diaper rashes often disappear within a few days after beginning treatment. Follow up with Dr. Trager to ensure an effective outcome, and call his office anytime with questions or concerns. Making a few simple lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of further discomfort.

Schedule a telehealth diaper dermatitis evaluation at TeleDerm Kidz by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.