There are many products that can help with managing incontinence. A very common side effect, however, from using the incorrect incontinence products are diaper rashes. This may be exacerbated from fabrics you wear, or in-proper usage of incontinence products. Read on if you want to learn tips on how to prevent this from happening to you.
1. Wear Lightweight Fabrics
Pick materials that allow for air to easily pass through the material. This will include underwear and bottoms made of cotton or linen.
If you are very active, consider purchasing clothing which has been designed to promote aeration. This sweat wicking material is critical to avoid dampness from lingering in your clothes and increasing risk of developing diaper rash.
Try to also pick clothing styles that have some looseness in the fit. This will also facilitate better air flow throughout the clothing and reduce risk of developing a diaper rash.
2. Avoid wearing the same product for extended periods of time
Wearing the same product for too long, even after a light soiling, will significantly increase the risk of developing a diaper rash.
Stagnant moisture that is trapped in the underwear products results in an environment that is susceptible to rashes. Whenever you feel any moisture, it is time to refresh yourself.
There are different types of products available on the market today: Disposable Underwear, Disposable Pads, and Washable Incontinence Panties.
The type of product that will be most helpful to you will vary depending on your daily activities, and the severity of incontinence you experience. Knowing how each product works will increase your confidence in how to use the products and will make sure you decrease the risk of developing any unfortunate side effects such as diaper rash.
3. When to use different products
Disposable underwear is appropriate for large voids of urine. These products are designed to handle a large volume of liquid and can be worn throughout the day. These products are dependable for long periods of time. Throw them out if you completely empty your bladder or as soon as you can and replace with a new pair.
Disposable Pads tolerate a medium amount of urine and are often stuck to underwater with a sticky film. The pads can handle a small amount of movement, which is good for walking, but may not stick firmly enough to withstand an active workout. Refresh a disposable pad as soon as there is moisture present, typically after 2-6 hours of wear – depending on the severity of incontinence.
Washable incontinence underwear are the most eco-friendly option, and typically are the most comfortable too. These products are designed to absorb a light amount of liquid, and can be worn for 8-10 hours. Washable underwear are also designed to house disposable pads for added protection.
4. Making sure to dry properly
Use some soapy water to clean yourself off after having an accident. Depending on the amount of urine, it may not need to be a full wash, but make sure you take your time to clean up. Use a chair if necessary and sit while you clean yourself as this will significantly reduce the risk of a fall.
Afterwards, ensure you use a clean and dry towel. Pat yourself until completely dry. This is a critical step is to reduce any chance of moisture from lingering. When there is moisture, there is risk for a diaper rash.
Some people may benefit from using a topical powder which aids in drying. These products are commonly Zinc based powders and are available at local pharmacies.
Using this type of drying product may be worthwhile for people who are especially prone to diaper rashes and will ensure the affected area stays dry.
Frequent rubbing and wiping with towels can result in sensitive skin and tissues of the affected area. To avoid aggravating the skin, a drying powder can be extremely useful to help clear away the moisture without enduring the friction of a towel.
5. Preparing for emergencies
There will be times when you are caught by surprise while you are out of the house. You may not have a replacement product on hand, or perhaps you do not have access to the proper facilities to refresh yourself. The unfortunate reality of these scenarios is that you are left wearing a used product for longer than desired.
To prevent getting caught in this scenario, try to make a point to pack extra supplies in a carrier bag or leaving products in your car. A disposable pad is often discreet enough to fit into a coat pocket.
If you know you will be out of the house for many hours, you may benefit from wearing a high-absorbency option such as the Disposable Underwear. This ensures that if you experience urine loss, you will feel covered until you can locate a bathroom for you to change in.
By following these simple steps, you will significantly decrease the risk of developing diaper rash.
Author
Bio: Anna Williams is a former aged care worker who now enjoys a slower paced life writing for Zorbies, cooking up a storm in the kitchen, and hiking local trails on weekends with her 2 beloved pups.
