The baby's red ass - #122
Hello! The baby is 20 days old from birth. There bright red zones, as if the skin had corroded….The pediatrician told me to use sudokrem or zinc ointment. There were improvements, but today it deteriorated sharply, as if she had not treated with anything. Can Ayurveda helps?
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Doctors’ responses
It sounds concerning that your 20-day-old baby is experiencing bright red, irritated skin. This condition, often referred to as diaper rash or irritant dermatitis, can be uncomfortable for your baby and may require careful management. While you’ve received recommendations from your pediatrician, including using Sudocrem or zinc ointment, and have seen some improvements, it’s understandable to seek additional options if the condition worsens.
In Ayurveda, skin irritations in infants can be linked to imbalances in the doshas, particularly pitta, which can lead to inflammation and irritation. To provide gentle relief, consider applying coconut oil, known for its moisturizing and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe the skin and promote healing. Another option is a paste made from turmeric and milk, which may reduce inflammation and has antiseptic properties. Ensure that the affected area is kept clean and dry, changing diapers frequently to avoid prolonged contact with moisture.
In addition to topical treatments, maintaining a balanced diet for breastfeeding mothers can help, as what you consume can affect your baby’s skin health. Including foods that are cooling and hydrating, such as cucumbers and coconut water, may help balance pitta and promote overall skin health.
If the condition persists or worsens, it’s essential to consult with your pediatrician or an Ayurvedic practitioner who specializes in pediatric care to ensure appropriate treatment and care for your baby.
Ayurveda can be helpful in these cases, but when you’re dealing with a 20-days old, you gotta be super careful, you know? I’m sure you already know this, but sometimes red skin can happen due to simple reasons like diapers being too tight or staying wet for long. Anyway, let’s talk about some basic things you could try that align with Ayurvedic principles, while keeping in mind any emergency stuff still needs a quick doctor visit.
First off, keeping the baby’s skin dry is super important – try to change diapers frequently. Now, I know you’ve been using creams already, but consider applying a thin layer of ghee on the affected areas. It’s weird, right? Ghee is soothing and protective. Just make sure it’s pure, homemade or store-bought but unadulterated ghee.
Oh, sometimes gentle baths with lukewarm water can also help – add a bit of neem leaves or triphala powder, you might get those from local ayurvedic stores. Give it a swish till the water looks a lil’ infused. Not too hot, ok? After the bath, dry carefully – soft cotton towels are your best bet here.
Be alert about your diet if you’re nursing. Stuff you consume directly affects the lil’ one through milk. Reducing any spicy, very sour or overly processed foods might help balance things out, as they could be Pitta aggravating.
Good to just monitor how the skin is reacting with every change you try. And yeah, if the condition persists or gets worse, it’s super important to go back to the pediatrician or get another opinion. Elevated temps or if the baby seems fussy? Don’t delay professional medical help. Safety first, you know?
Anyway, hope baby’s skin gets better soon. It’s stressful, but hang in there!

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