If diaper rash occurs in adults, how to treat it?

Diaper rash can not only occur in babies. Diaper rash can occur in anyone who uses diapers, from adults, to the elderly. This rash is certainly painful and uncomfortable on the skin. Diaper rash symptoms in infants and adults are usually similar, namely redness, peeling skin, and irritation. Let's see below how to treat and cause diaper rash in adults.

What causes diaper rash in adults?

The rash generally occurs due to prolonged use and the diaper is rarely changed. Diapers that are used for too long will leave the skin wet or damp. Moist skin then rubs against the dirty diaper lining, it will easily cause irritation and diaper space.

If it is a new diaper used, but rashes occur, you may have an allergy. Some people may be allergic because they have sensitive skin.

Not clean washing the genital organs can also be the cause of the rash around the diaper. This is because the area around the genital organs is an ideal place for bacteria and germs to grow, because it is damp. The bacteria that most commonly triggers diaper rash is Staphylococcus aureus.

Yeast infection can also cause diaper rash in adults. This is because fungus grows easily in warm, dark, and humid areas such as the area in the diaper.

This fungal growth also eventually makes the skin irritated and itchy. One of the most irritating fungi in adult diaper rash is Candida albicans.

What are the symptoms of diaper rash that appear in adults?

The rash in adults can occur anywhere, from the groin, buttocks, thighs and hips.

The rash will cause symptoms:

Red skin and / or red spots
Red patches of skin
The surface of the skin becomes rougher
Skin feels itchy
There is a burning sensation

The more severe the rash in the diaper area, the more irritated the skin can become. If the red rash is caused by a fungal infection, there are usually small red bumps.

How to treat rashes in adults?

One of the most commonly used and available over-the-counter medications is zinc oxide skin rash cream and petroleum jelly, which can relieve the symptoms of diaper rash. If you are using zinc oxide cream that is too sticky, once the cream is dry, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly on top.

Well, other ways to deal with diaper rash are:

Change the diaper when it is slightly wet. Do not use diapers all day, even if you do not excrete much.
Wash the sore area several times a day with warm water and soap or use a special hypoallergenic cleanser.
Always dry the skin before using diapers. We recommend that you pat dry gently with a towel, do not rub.
Before taking a shower, you should let the part of the rash dry completely then use the diaper again.
When taking a shower, always wash and rinse with soap.
Use cleaners, or soaps that don't contain fragrances, added dyes or alcohol.
Avoid wearing pants that are too tight.

When to see a doctor immediately?

You need to see a doctor immediately if:

If the rash does not subside after using zinc oxide cream for more than 3 days, or it gets worse.
If you experience bleeding from the diaper rash area.
If you have a fever.
If there is pain when urinating or defecating.

Your doctor will find out the underlying cause of your diaper rash and provide a more patent-pending medication.

If it is caused by a yeast infection, the doctor will give you a special anti-fungal cream such as ciclopirox, nyastatin, and imidazole which need to be used for 7-10 days. If the yeast infection is already in the severe category, the doctor will give you an oral medication in addition to cream.

If the diaper rash is caused by bacteria, the doctor will give you a special anti-bacterial cream containing bacitracin or furidic acid.