Children come into contact with many germs and viruses, so it's no surprise they tend to develop rashes. Unlike adults, children are more prone to scratch itchy skin and forget to wash their hands frequently to prevent further spreading, which only worsens their condition. Always consult with your child's pediatrician to determine whether or not the rash needs prompt medical attention.
Chicken Pox
Chicken pox often begins as a red, itchy rash located on your child's back, face or abdomen before spreading to other areas of the body, according to KidsHealth. The rash can spread to areas such as their mouth, nose, genitals, ears and scalp. When the rash first develops, small red bumps appear as insect bites or small pimples. The chicken pox blisters usually develop within 2 to 4 days after the rash and pimple-like bumps appear. Your child may experience a sore throat, fever, headache or abdominal pain approximately 1 to 2 days before the rash appears. Chicken pox typically appears in children 12 and younger, although some infants, teens and adults can experience chicken pox if they've never been exposed to the virus before or have a compromised immune system. Chicken pox is contagious, so keep your child home from school or daycare, and avoid going out in public to prevent spreading the virus.
Eczema
Eczema is a skin rash that is usually red and itchy, according to KidsHealth. Children who develop eczema may be genetically predisposed to it, or have family members who suffer from allergies, hay fever or asthma. Children who have eczema will often develop similar health conditions such as allergies or asthma later in life. When eczema becomes severe enough, small fluid-filled bumps appear and begin to ooze. Scratching the rash will make symptoms worse. Eczema typically goes into remission, which means there is no cure for it, and symptoms may disappear as fast as they came on or can last for months or years. Children who suffer from eczema should avoid pet dander, pollen, excessive heat and products containing perfumes as they may contain alcohol.
Heat Rash
A heat rash is most common during warm summer months, according to MayoClinic.com. A heat rash usually appears as small clear or red spots on your child, and usually subsides on its own. If your child is overdressing, or wearing too much clothing, remove certain articles of clothing or try dressing your child in lighter clothing to prevent a heat rash. Lightweight shorts and a tank top would allow your child's skin to breathe and get air to prevent developing a heat rash. A heat rash often occurs when your skin becomes moist and heat gets trapped. You can also keep your child indoors to prevent and help get rid of a heat rash.
