Burns on baby from urine

[Dona__0__0]

  My one year old nephew's urine is so acidic it's burning his
  genitals and bottom.  Doctor only offered hydrocortisone cream
  as a solution.  Isn't there something else we can do?
  What about changing diet or somehow change ph?
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     Dear Donna,
     Your nephew’s urinary pH can be determined by a rapid and inexpensive test called a urine dipstick. Normal urine pH values range form 5.5 - 6.5, with normal variants in the range of 5 - 8. The urinary pH strongly correlates with the serum pH.  Therefore, unless your nephew is dehydrated or suffers from a  metabolic acidosis, it is highly unlikely that his urine would be more acidic that normal.  Oftentimes, patients will confuse foul selling urine with acidic urine. Additionally, a urine dipstick would also help ascertain if your nephew’s urine is really the problem.
     It sounds as if your nephew has a diaper rash consistent with a chemical dermatitis.  Most often, hydrocortisone is not helpful in treating diaper rashes.  It may actually make it worse.
     Just a few helpful suggestions, 1) Frequently change his diapers, so that his bottom is not exposed to wet diapers for extended periods of time. 2) Change the brand of diapers/creams/powders that you are using to something that is hypoallergenic. 3) Seek the professional advice of a dermatologist, who could thoroughly investigate the nature of the rash.
     This information is provided for general medical education purposes only.  Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition. More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its satellites (1 800 653 6568).
     Sincerely,
HFHS M.D. LM
* keyword: Acidic Urine, diaper dermatitis, diaper rash