Signs That It's Time To See A Pediatrician About Your Child's Diaper Rash
Diaper rash is a condition that many children will experience at some point in life. As a parent, it can be highly upsetting to see your child's skin red and inflamed, as well as see your child is bothered by the irritation from the rash. Fortunately, you can typically deal with this issue yourself through a variety of simple means such as keeping the area dry and using ointments. The situation may reach a point, however, that you feel the need to get some professional help by visiting your child's pediatrician. Here are some signs that you should seek this physician's care for your child:
The Rash Is Chronic
Lots of children who get diaper rash will have the rash appear, then you'll treat it, and then it will go away again. The child may go days or even weeks without another instance of diaper rash, which can make you feel as though you're effectively managing the situation. However, it's also possible that you may reach a point at which the child's rash isn't going away. Even if you care for it in the same manner as you've always done, you may not be seeing the desired results. This is a time that you should visit your child's pediatrician.
You Think You're Not Treating It Correctly
It's easy for lots of parents to doubt themselves when they're caring for their child, especially when it's their first child and they're unfamiliar with some care-tactics. If you feel as though you're doing something that is making the diaper rash worse, you should seek professional care for your child. For example, you might be using a powder or ointment that the child's body reacts poorly to, resulting in a worse rash after you care for it. Or, maybe you're putting on the child's diaper too tightly, which is irritating the skin.
The Rash's Appearance Worsens
Generally, a child's diaper rash will consist of red areas on the child's skin that may remain present for some time, but won't typically get worse — as long as you're following the care regimen that usually works. However, there can be times that the appearance of the diaper rash worsens. In some cases, the rash will turn even redder and appear swollen to a degree. In more extreme cases, the skin may even break, and a blister-like situation may be present. Such issues are generally very painful for your child, so a pediatrician visit is an immediate priority.
Contact a clinic like Better Family Care for more information and assistance.