Parenting a toddler can be a nerve-racking. When they are sick you worry, and when they have a rash, you want to know what caused it. There are multiple explanations why a rash appears on a toddler. For example, he may have come into contact with something that irritated his skin or he was exposed to pathogens that caused the rash.
Scarlet Fever
Scarlet fever was once considered a serious childhood disease but it is now treated easily. Streptococcal bacteria produces a toxin that creates a red rash, which is the common sign of the illness. The rash initially appears on the neck and chest but it then spreads all over the body. The rash can last more than a week and its texture is rough. Peeling may occur around the fingertips, toes and groin area as the rash fades.
Eczema
Eczema refers to different kinds of skin swelling. This swelling causes red, swollen and itchy skin. Diseases, irritating substances, allergies and your toddler's genetic makeup determine whether he is susceptible to this form of rash. Eczema is not contagious. The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis. This form of eczema is an allergic condition that causes the skin to become dry and itchy. The way to prevent your toddler from experiencing an eczema outbreak is by having him avoid irritants, stress and things he is allergic to.
Hives
Histamine is released into your body when you come into contact with something that you are allergic to. Hives are caused by the release of histamine and are accompanied by itching, swelling and other symptoms. If your child's rash is raised and has red welts on the surface of the skin, chances are that she is experiencing hives. Possible causes for this rash include exposure to animal dander, insect bites, certain medications, pollen, shellfish, milk, eggs and nuts. There are many more allergens that could be your toddler's source of hives, and you will need to explore the possibilities with your doctor.
Roseola
Roseola is a curable disease that occurs in infants and young children. This disease comes with a high fever and a skin rash. The fever runs high anywhere from three to seven days and, as the fever falls, the rash will appear. This rash is pink or rose-colored, and has fairly small sores that are slightly raised. Roseola occurs frequently in children between the ages of three months to four years but is seen most often in children between the ages of six months to one year old. Roseola is caused by the human herpes virus 6 (HHV-6). Symptoms appear between five to 15 days after exposure has occurred.
Poison Ivy, Oak and Sumac
Your toddler's rash may be caused by poison ivy, poison oak or sumac. Not all people are sensitive to these plants' oily sap but many are. The sap is in the root, stems, leaves and fruit of these plants. If it gets on your skin, it causes a skin rash that has blisters within it. The rash can be severe, but it depends on how much sap gets on your toddler's skin and how sensitive he is to the plant. Learn what these plants look like and search anywhere your toddler plays.
