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Symptoms
By Mayo Clinic staff
Diaper rash is characterized by the following:
- Skin signs. Diaper rash is marked by red, puffy and tender-looking skin in the diaper region — buttocks, thighs and genitals.
- Changes in your baby's disposition. You may notice your baby seems more uncomfortable than usual, especially during diaper changes. A baby with a diaper rash often fusses or cries when the diaper area is washed or touched.
Diaper rashes can occur intermittently, anytime your child wears diapers, but they're more common in babies during their first 15 months, especially between 8 and 10 months of age.
When to see a doctor
Diaper rash is usually easily treated and improves within a few days after starting home treatment. If your baby's skin doesn't improve after a few days of home treatment with over-the-counter ointment and more frequent diaper changes, talk to your doctor. Sometimes, diaper rash leads to secondary infections that may require prescription medications.
Have your child examined if:
- The rash is severe
- The rash worsens despite home treatment
Also see your child's doctor if the rash occurs along with any of the following:
- Fever
- Blisters or boils
- A rash that extends beyond the diaper area
- Pus or weeping discharge
- Horil KA. Overview of diaper dermatitis in infants and children. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Jan. 12, 2010.
- Cydulka RK, et al. Diaper dermatitis. In: Marx JA, et al., eds. Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 6th ed. St. Louis, Mo.: Mosby; 2006. Accessed Jan. 12, 2010.
- Diaper dermatitis. American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. http://www.aocd.org/skin/dermatologic_diseases/diaper_dermatitis.html. Accessed Jan. 12, 2010.
- Adam R. Skin care of the diaper area. Pediatric Dermatology. 2008;25:427.
- What can I do if my baby gets diaper rash? American Academy of Pediatrics. http://www.healthychildren.org/english/ages-stages/baby/diapers-clothing/pages/Diaper-Rash-Solution.aspx. Accessed Jan. 12, 2010.
- Hoecker JL (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Jan. 14, 2010.
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