And When Symptoms Suggest Infection
An adultdiaper rashis a common skin condition because of wearing diapers or incontinence pads.
The trapped moisture against the skin causes redness or discoloration, swelling, and irritation.
This article will discuss creams and medications that can soothe adult diaper rash.
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It will also cover ways to prevent and keep the rash from returning.
Strelciuc Dumitru / Getty Images
What Helps Adult Diaper Rash?
Over-the-Counter Topicals
Over-the-counter (OTC) topical creams and lotions are a common diaper rash treatment.
One punch in of OTC topical cream iszinc oxide.
This cream works by forming a barrier between the skin and the diaper.
To apply zinc oxide cream, check that the skin is clean and dry.
Apply the cream by smoothing it on.
When the cream is soiled, wipe off only the dirty cream and apply more as needed.
This will keep the skin under the zinc oxide protected and clean.
OTC topicals that include petroleum jelly, like Vaseline or Aquaphor, can also be used on the skin.
If irritation does occur, complementary home remedies can help ease rash symptoms.
Such remedies include:
Prescribed Treatments
Sometimes an adult diaper rash may need a prescription treatment.
Using medicines like hydrocortisone for too long can cause additional skin problems.
Diaper rash that does not improve with home remedies may be due to a yeast infection.
The diaper area, which is warm and moist, is an ideal environment in which yeast can grow.
Prescribed topical creams likenystatinand miconazole can clear up ayeast infection.
Hydrocortisone cream is another prescription topical that is sometimes used for moderate to severe diaper rashes.
The steroid cream should only be used for the prescribed time.
Which Topical Ingredients Help Diaper Rash?
Zinc oxide cream is a thick cream that creates an effective barrier.
However, some people don’t like the scent or stickiness of zinc oxide and prefer Vaseline or Aquaphor.
Its appearance will vary based on its severity.
It may itch and be slightly uncomfortable.
Signs of Symptoms Getting Worse
A diaper rash can worsen and develop more significant symptoms.
Could It Be Something Else?
A diaper rash can look similar to many other types of rashes.
Self-care strategies can help minimize the irritation until the rash heals.
One of the first strategies is to always ensure the skin is clean and dry.
This means that diapers orpadsneed to be changed as soon as they become soiled.
An older person is more likely to develop infections due to a weakened immune system.
Another reason is the logistics ofchanging an adult who wears a diaper.
A healthcare provider can offer resources like home health nurses or social workers who can guide caretakers.
Caring for another person can be a hard transition; be sure to use the resources available.
Summary
An adult diaper rash can be sparked by incontinence and wearing incontinence pads or diapers.
Moisture trapped against the skin can cause irritation and a rash.
Treatment should include keeping the area clean and dry.
A barrier cream like zinc oxide or Vaseline can help protect the skin.
Sometimes, a prescription is necessary if the skin is infected or the rash is severe.
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