The prolonged use of diapers or incontinence products can lead to adult diaper rash.
That said, almost everyone can develop diaper rash, a type of contact diaper dermatitis. This is due to the skin coming into contact with a wet or dirty diaper for a prolonged period, as well as other causes, which are listed below.
Although diaper rash typically starts as a mild issue, if not treated early, it turns into an infection or can create an itchy rash on buttocks.
However, there are specific strategies for proper care alongside preventive methods that allow adults to manage and prevent diaper rash effectively. Moreover, people who understand the root factors behind diaper rash treatments can develop efficient strategies to protect their skin health and their daily comfort levels.
So, without further ado, we will examine different ways to treat adult diaper rash, including proper hygiene practices, protective creams, and much more.
What Causes Diaper Rashes?
Adult diaper rashes are caused by:
- Irritation Due to Urine or Stool – This happens because urine and stool are acidic and moist. The rashes can worsen if they remain in contact with the skin for too long.
- Poor Hygiene - Infrequent diaper changes and insufficient cleaning can cause bacterial growth and discomfort. Accumulated waste and moisture provide a breeding environment for infections, accelerating skin degradation.
- Sensitive Skin – When skin is sensitive, it is easily affected by the moisture that it is exposed to. It gets worse if you are prone to allergies.
- Tight Diaper – Rashes thrive in places that have a lot of moisture and little space. A tight diaper means that there is no free circulation of air, trapping more moisture and leading to rashes. Beyond thinking about the rashes, you should consider the comfort of the wearer when tightening a diaper.
Tips for Treating Adult Diaper Rash
Now that we’ve learned about rashes let’s discuss eight practical tips you can follow to tackle adult diaper rash effectively.
1. Do Not Make the Rash Worse
Beyond the factors that cause rashes, there are other factors that can make rashes worse.
Rashes are likely to worsen when one wears a soiled diaper for too long. When a diaper rubs against the skin, it can cause chaffing and rashes. Thus, diapers should be changed on a regular basis or as soon as they are soiled.
Furthermore, if the wearer has a yeast infection, there is a likelihood of the rash worsening. A bacterial infection is also another reason you are likely to experience a rash.
Besides, some people are also allergic to certain materials that are used in the manufacturing of diapers.
2. Check the Factors Making them Worse
If an adult sleeps in a sloppy diaper, the chances of developing rashes are very high. It is also easy to experience rashes if you have diarrhea because stool is liquid and acidic. The possibility of rashes increases when an adult begins to consume acidic foods.
Moreover, consumption of medication, especially antibiotics, also increases the chances of rashes.
3. Keep it Clean and Dry
Wet and soiled diapers will always cause rashes. Therefore, diapers should be changed as soon as they are soiled. Further, the wearer should spend a few minutes every day without a diaper. The idea is to give the skin time to breathe. The skin should be allowed a few minutes to breathe before a new diaper is put on.
4. Mind How You Put It On
The process of wearing a diaper could also contribute to rashes.
You should wash your hands thoroughly before changing a diaper to avoid spreading bacteria or other organisms that could escalate a rash. Moreover, clean the area gently with water and pat dry instead of rubbing it.
Wipes with alcohol are likely to escalate a rash and thus should be avoided. In fact, it is advisable that you avoid using diapers with extreme fragrances. Also, when you wear or wrap the diaper, you need to make sure that it is not too tight.
5. Watch-Out When the Rash Develops
Be extra careful when there is a rash because the steps you take will determine whether the rashes will disappear or increase.
Thus, increase the frequency of changing diapers when rashes develop. This denies the rashes an opportunity to escalate because the area will be dry and clean. Furthermore, clean the affected area thoroughly with soap. However, avoid using soaps that have a lot of additives.
6. Use Disposable Diapers
Use disposable adult diapers instead of washable ones.
Disposable diapers come with ultra-absorbent properties. In fact, present-day technology has made diapers extra absorbent. This makes them drier than reusable diapers.
The other challenge with reusable diapers is that the process of washing them will easily damage their absorbency. This means that with every wash, you will be losing the ability to absorb as much urine, exposing the wearer to wetness.
7. Use Creams and Jellies
Use diaper rash cream and jellies to protect the skin from rashes. They provide a barrier that keeps away irritants like urine and stool. Apply these creams and jellies gently and in small quantities to ensure that the diaper does not stick to the skin.
However, avoid a lot of additives and fragrances when choosing creams and jellies. Using a lot of jelly is likely to make it difficult to peel a diaper off the body when it needs removing.
Furthermore, avoid specific treatments when you experience rashes. You should also avoid dryer sheets and fabric softeners, as well as other highly fragranced products. When products are less allergenic, they do not cause a lot of irritation.
Lastly, avoid using powders on a rash. They are the worse because users can inhale them, causing more health complications.
8. Adjust Diet to Reduce Skin Irritation
Dietary adjustments may help reduce diaper rash in people who have acidic urine or regular diarrhea. Think about the following:
- Keep Yourself Hydrated: Water helps dilute pee, which lessens skin irritation.
- Restrict Your Intake of Acidic Meals: Citrus fruits, tomatoes, and spicy foods might increase the acidity of your urine.
- Eat More Fiber: Consuming more fiber can help avoid diarrhea, which lessens the discomfort that comes with frequent bowel movements.
All in all, a balanced diet lowers the chance of diaper rash flare-ups and promotes general skin health.
When Sould Medical Attention Be Sought For Adult Diaper Rash?
Adult diaper rash can be treated at home by improving hygiene, using barrier creams and frequent diaper changes, but there are cases that require medical attention.
Being aware of the signs of a bigger problem, such as an infection, severe discomfort, or long-term skin damage, will prevent complications.
1. Persistent or Worsening Rash
A severe diaper rash that lasts several days without improvement or worsens while taking preventive measures may need to be treated by a doctor.
A healthcare provider can determine whether a fungal or bacterial infection could have influenced the rash.
2. Worsening Signs of Infection
Bear this in mind: even the most basic skin itch could turn itself into a significant infection if one fails to treat it diligently. If you observe any of the following signs, it is best to consult a doctor:
- Redness and Swelling: The skin around the rash may redden or swell and become warm or excessively sensitive.
- Pus or Fluid-Filled Blisters: These are signs of a bacterial infection that may require diaper rash treatment with antibiotics.
- Discharge That Smells Foul: Your discharge may be infected and needs immediate medical attention.
- Rash That Causes Fever or Chills: This may be a systemic infection that needs to be taken care of right away.
3. Severe Pain or Open Sores
Broken skin or ulcerations associated with diaper rash can be very painful and increase the risk of infection.
If the area becomes raw, starts bleeding or has open wounds, a doctor might suggest that medicated ointments or prescription-strength creams are used on the area.
4. Recurring or Chronic Rash
If you have frequent diaper rash, it is possible that you have an underlying condition such as eczema, psoriasis, a compromised immune system, or other underlying medical conditions.
In these cases, having a healthcare provider can help determine the root of the cause and provide some long-term management strategies.
Psychological Impact of Adult Diaper Rash
Diaper rash in adults can have an impact on mental health in addition to physical pain.
For people who are managing incontinence, persistent discomfort and irritation can cause concern and frustration. Discomfort can further affect mental health by interfering with social interactions, everyday tasks, and sleep quality.
In addition to improving skin health, treating diaper rash as soon as possible helps people feel more comfortable and confident.
By implementing appropriate skincare practices and using superior incontinence solutions, people can manage lakes effectively and preserve a higher standard of living.
Bottomline
There are instances where medical attention is required. This is especially common when health problems escalate. However, do not rush the person to the doctor because of a mild rash.
You should only be alarmed when the rash develops into blisters, the person has a fever, or the rash begins to redden, and pus or any discharge is experienced. You have a reason to see the doctor if it fails to go away despite treatment. Do not use medical prescription products given for other skin conditions because they might not be effective.
Lastly, you need to monitor the skin regularly to ensure that the rash does not escalate.
