There's nothing worse than a diaper rash to make your baby feel downright miserable. Unfortunately, diaper rashes are a common occurrence with babies, even with the best care. One way to prevent diaper rashes is to change your baby's diaper as soon as it's soiled. Another way is to clean the area thoroughly after each diaper change and to apply a protective ointment. Most diaper rashes will go away after just a day or two, especially with proper cleansing and treatment. However, some diaper rashes will require a visit to the pediatrician. If your baby has developed a rash, and any of the symptoms listed below seem familiar, you need to contact your pediatrician as soon as possible.
Rash Has Lasted for Days
As stated above, most diaper rashes will go away in just a day or two with the proper treatment. However, more serious rashes will last much longer. When that happens, your baby will need medical care. If your baby has developed a diaper rash that has lasted more than a few days and hasn't shown signs of improvement with cleansing and protective ointment, your baby will need to be seen by the pediatrician.
Rash Has Spread to Other Areas
Normal diaper rashes will remain confined to the diaper region. That's because diaper rashes are caused by exposure to urine and feces, which usually remain inside the diaper area. If your baby has developed a diaper rash that has spread to other areas, such as their abdomen, legs or back, you need to get them to their pediatrician as soon as you can. This type of rash will require immediate medical attention.
Rash Is Accompanied by a High Fever
When babies develop diaper rashes, they don't usually get a fever. With a true diaper rash, your baby may become irritable due to the pain and discomfort associated with the rash. However, they shouldn't develop a fever with a diaper rash. If your baby's diaper rash was accompanied by a high fever, it's time to contact their pediatrician immediately.
Rash Has Developed Blisters and Bumps
The typical diaper rash will leave a red, raised area on your baby's bottom and genitals. However, there shouldn't be any blisters or bumps. While your baby has a diaper rash, watch for changes in the appearance of the rash. If the rash develops small blisters and bumps, or you can see open sores in the rash, contact your pediatrician right away.
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