Because children's developing immune systems often are exposed to new irritants, rashes are a common occurrence throughout childhood, according to AskDr.Sears.com. Although rashes generally do not necessitate a trip to the emergency room or a physician's office, it's important to be aware of the types of rashes that do. You can typically identify a rash based on its appearance, touch and location on the body. The duration a rash lasts can also determine what type of rash it is.
Step 1
Examine your child's body and note how extensive the rash is. Observe if it is located in a small area or in spots all over the body. Look at the color and see if the color is uniform or blotchy.
Step 2
Cleanse your hands and run your hand over the rash---you also may wish to wear non-latex gloves if you are concerned the rash is contagious. Note the feel of the rash---the presence of bumps, pimples or even noticing a flat rash can help you to better identify the rash type. Be sure to wash your hands after you have felt the rash as well.
Step 3
Determine the rash type by process of elimination. Because there are many types and causes of rashes in children---at least 11 common rashes, according to AskDr.Sears.com---sometimes just ruling out the cause of a rash can lead to its identification.
Step 4
Rule out a rash caused by hives if the rash has not appeared suddenly and mostly on the trunk of the body. Hives occur as an allergic reaction to irritants such as detergent, grass or soaps.
Step 5
Rule out diaper rash if your child does not have the rash chiefly on the bottom or the areas that would be most affected by a diaper, according to The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. The rash is a result of fungus if small red spots accompany the rash.
Step 6
Rule out a rash caused by eczema if your child's skin is not scaly and dry. Eczema most commonly occurs in the creases of the skin and may develop more when the weather is cold, according to American Academy of Pediatrics.
Step 7
Rule out chickenpox if your child's rash seems to be growing over time and is starting to form with clear blisters, according to AskDr.Sears.com.
Step 8
Seek immediate medical treatment if your child develops a flattened rash that resembles tiny pen dots that are red or purple, according to AskDr.Sears.com. When you press on the skin, these dots will stay the same color. This type of rash, called petechiae or purpura, can indicate a bleeding problem or infection in your child and requires immediate medical attention if it is found anywhere other than the skin of the face and neck.
Things You'll Need
- Soap
- Water
- Non-latex gloves
