Yes, urine can affect skin, especially with regular exposure. It can lead to inflammation and a condition known as Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD).
How Urine Affects Skin
When skin is frequently exposed to urine, several things happen:
- Inflammation: The skin becomes inflamed. The reference specifically states, "The skin, when exposed to urine or feces regularly, can become inflamed."
- pH Imbalance: Urine exposure can increase the skin's pH level, contributing to IAD. "In many cases, IAD is caused by: an increase in the skin's pH level."
- Increased Irritation: Fecal incontinence can worsen the condition because stool is generally more irritating to the skin than urine.
Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD)
IAD is a specific type of skin damage related to incontinence (urinary or fecal). IAD symptoms can include:
- Redness
- Inflammation
- Pain or itching
- Skin breakdown
Prevention and Treatment
While the provided reference doesn't detail specific preventive measures or treatments, understanding that frequent exposure and pH imbalance are key factors allows us to infer best practices:
- Frequent Cleansing: Gently clean the affected area frequently to remove urine.
- Moisture Barriers: Apply a moisture barrier cream to protect the skin.
- Maintain Skin pH: Use skin cleansers and products designed to maintain the skin's natural pH.
