Blisters, bumps, blotches and spots--most childhood rashes look much worse than they are. While most rashes require some attention and often a trip to the doctor, very few call for emergency care. A rash may appear as a symptom of a skin disorder, viral infection, overheating, allergy or sensitivity. There are a variety of oral and topical treatments for rashes, depending on the cause.
Dermatitis
The itchy red rash typical of contact dermatitis is caused by direct contact with an irritant such a plant, certain types of metal and cosmetic products. The rash is confined to the area where contact is made.
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a patchy, dry, red, scaly rash that appears intermittently on the face and in areas where the body creases, such as behind the knees and on the inner elbow joints. Eczema may be a sign of allergy and, although the condition often goes away as the child gets older, it could develop into a life-long condition.
Medication Rashes
More than 7% of children who take antibiotics develop rashes, according to a survey of almost 6,000 patients published in the journal Archives of Dermatology. An antibiotic rash usually appears several days after the child starts taking the medication. Flat, pink or red spots first appear on the torso and may spread to the face.
Rashes from cefaclor (brand names Ceclor, Ceclor CD Ceclor Pulvules, Raniclor), ampicillin and amoxicillin (penicillin-type antibiotics) are more common than with other antibiotics commonly given to children. In most cases, even if a rash appears, your child will be able to take the medication again without any problems.
Hives
Hives are raised, pink and white welts that result from an immune system reaction that causes swelling under the skin. If hives raise up anywhere on the skin, and particularly around the face, it is a sign of an allergic reaction that needs to be taken more seriously than a flat, non-itchy rash on other areas of the body.
Infectious (Viral) Rashes
Viral rashes are associated with a number of childhood diseases such as measles, chicken pox, Fifth disease and roseola are often accompanied or preceded by cough, diarrhea, congestion, headache, fatigue, sore throat or fever. Children who are vaccinated against measles and chicken pox rarely get these diseases, but if they develop, your child's pediatrician will recognize the symptoms and rashes right away.
A child with Fifth disease may develop a red, lace-like rash on the cheeks, torso, arms and legs. The child may have symptoms of a cold or a low fever, and by the time the rash appears, the condition is no longer contagious.
The non-itchy rash of roseola generally appears 3 days after a high fever. It starts on the face and then moves down over the rest of the body. The rashes are usually flat and pink but are sometimes bordered by a white ring.
Treatment
A pediatrician can determine the source of the rash or refer you to a dermatologist. For some rashes, there are no treatments; for others, antihistamines and specialized medications, creams and ointments are available and lifestyle adjustments may be necessary.
If your child develops hives, has joint pain, difficulties breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue or a rash that is extremely itchy, seek medical help right away.
