Yeast Diaper Rash in Children: Care Instructions
Your Care Instructions
Any rash on the area covered by a diaper is called diaper rash. Many diaper rashes are caused when a child wears a wet diaper for too long. But diaper rashes can also be caused by Candida albicans, a type of yeast. Your child may also have the two types of rashes at the same time.
A yeast diaper rash is not serious, but it may need to be treated with an antifungal cream.
Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.
How can you care for your child at home?
- Your doctor may prescribe a medicated cream, powder, or ointment, or recommend that you buy an over-the-counter one at a grocery store or drugstore. Use it as directed.
- Change diapers as soon as they are wet or dirty. Before you put a new diaper on your baby, gently wash the diaper area with warm water. Rinse and pat dry. Wash your hands before and after each diaper change.
- Air the diaper area for 5 to 10 minutes before you put on a new diaper.
- Do not use baby wipes that contain alcohol or propylene glycol while your baby has a rash. These may burn the skin.
- Do not use baby powder while your baby has a rash. The powder can build up in the skin folds and hold moisture.
When should you call for help?
Call your doctor or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if:
- Your baby has blisters, open sores, or scabs in the diaper area.
- Your baby has signs of a more serious infection, including:
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
- Red streaks leading from the rash.
- Pus draining from the rash.
- A fever.
Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if:
- Your baby's diaper rash looks like a rash that is on other parts of your baby's body.
- Your baby's rash is not better after 2 days of treatment.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
Enter S981 in the search box to learn more about "Yeast Diaper Rash in Children: Care Instructions".
Current as of: October 31, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
