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Whether you are using disposable or cloth diapers, your child will very likely develop diaper rash. Rashes are generally caused by irritation of the skin from prolonged contact with urine or stool. Most of the rashes are benign (harmless) and will disappear after 1-2 days. All you need to do is to change the diaper more often and use any of the over-the-counter diaper creams. You can apply the same measures to prevent development of diaper rashes. Vaseline, Balmex, or Daily Care work well.
For more severe rashes, you may want to use "stickier" or "medicated" ointments or creams, such as Desitin. These ointments work well but they are hard to wipe off, so use a little baby oil for easy removal.
Powders are not recommended unless they are medically indicated. Powder tends to form small, hard "pebbles" that can worsen the rash. They can also be easily inhaled, especially by younger babies, and can cause serious respiratory problems.
If the rash is persistent or involves larger areas, it should be evaluated by your physician, since some of the lesions (sores) may be due to fungal or bacterial infection. Occasionally, diaper rash may be caused by a systemic (general) illness.
For additional healthy kids tips, log onto baymed.org, scroll over "Health Checks & You" and join our "E-List." For more information about childhood diseases or development, contact Inez Balinska, MD or Darek Balinski, MD, McLaren Bay Region Pediatrics, Medical Mall, 1456 W. Center Road, Essexville. (989) 895-4840.
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