A Few Thoughts About Living With Incontinence
"We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars."
- Oscar Wilde
Adult Care Tips
Adult Diapers
How to Treat Rash from Adult Diapers
Compression Stockings
Other
Treating Adult Diapers Rash
- A "normal" diaper rash should clear up within three days with good hygienic care. If it lasts longer, see a physician to ensure that the condition is not something more serious than a simple rash. Possibilities such as a more complex bacteria or yeast infection, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, seborrhea or an allergic reaction should be ruled out.
- If the diaper rash occurs while using cloth diapers, switch to disposable adult diapers. Disposable adult diapers are designed to wick irritating moisture away from the patient's skin, something that cloth is unable to do. Traces of detergent in cloth diapers may also act as an irritant to the skin. The plastic pants required over cloth diapers actually raise the temperature inside the diaper, speeding bacteria growth and skin break down.
- Treat diaper rash at its earliest onset. The faster the treatment, the faster the cure.
- Increase the diaper change frequency. This may mean an additional change in the night.
- Clean the diaper area with pure water and a soft cloth. Pat dry and if possible, allow for some "air time". A blow dryer used cautiously on a very low setting can assist with thorough drying.
- If the diaper area is very soiled, a mild soap can be used. Rinse thoroughly. A solution of 1 oz. vinegar per 1 gallon of clean water can be used for the final rinse. This mild solution shifts the affected area’s ph balance, making the environment difficult for irritating yeast to multiply.
- Soaking in a warm water bath or a sitz bath several times a day can offer relief. A couple of tablespoons of baking soda added to the sitz bath can assist the healing process and also give temporary soothing.
- If the rash is bright red and continues after three days, it is quite possible you are dealing with a yeast infection. Over the counter yeast ointments such as Lotramin are safe to apply to the affected area. Of course, the original admonition to seek a doctor's advice about a lingering rash remains.
- Do not use cornstarch as a powder. Despite its seeming homeopathic appeal, it actually feeds yeast, making it multiply rapidly.
- Apply a zinc oxide based ointment to the affected area which will act as a moisture barrier and speed healing. Use a good adult diaper rash ointment such as Triple Paste, Butt Balm or other well known products. Some of these products also offer temporary numbing relief.
- Avoid use of ointments containing hydrocortisone or neomycin. A normal adult diapers rash will not be helped or healed by their use.
- Encourage the patient to increase their fluid intake, particularly of water or cranberry juice. Their urine will be less concentrated and less irritating to their skin.