Rashes are skin conditions that lead to visible changes on the surface of the skin, generally due to irritation. When babies and children get skin rashes, the condition is usually temporary and not serious, according to the Merck Manuals. However, parents should still try to manage the problem, which can help provide relief to children at a time when their affected skin may feel itchy or uncomfortable.
Baby Rashes
Common rashes in babies include acne, cradle cap, diaper rash, drooling rash, erythema toxicum, heat rash, milia and roseola. Some of the conditions produce small blisters or bumps on the face or elsewhere, such as acne, milia and heat rash. Others lead to areas of red and/or swollen skin, including diaper rash, erythema toxicum and the viral infection roseola. The triggers for baby rashes also vary. For instance, drooling rashes recur on the cheeks and chin after babies spit up food, and heat rashes appear when high temperatures and humidity trap sweat inside an infant's sweat ducts. Cradle cap affects many newborns, producing patches of scaly skin on their head, while diaper rash appears on the bottom and genital area after prolonged contact with feces and urine.
Other Childhood Rashes
Both infants and older children can develop other types of rashes that often afflict adults, too. For example, atopic dermatitis, which is commonly called eczema, can lead to dry, itchy, red and/or swollen skin, according to the Merck Manuals. Children who get a bug bite or who are allergic to certain foods or substances may develop the raised red areas of skin associated with urticaria, a condition widely known as hives. Allergic contact dermatitis is yet another type of rash related to an allergic reaction, such as when children come in contact with poison ivy. Older children who wet the bed can also develop a rash on their bottom and genitals similar to diaper rash in infants, states the National Kidney Foundation.
Considerations
Baby rashes, such as acne and milia, typically go away in a matter of days or weeks and after minimal or no treatment, according to Seattle Children's Hospital. The facility recommends not using ointments or oils on most infant rashes to avoid further irritation, which can prolong the condition. Diaper rash is an exception, however. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises applying petrolatum or zinc oxide liberally to such rashes and leaving it on to promote healing. Babies and older children also frequently outgrow rashes, although eczema can recur or last a lifetime.
Prevention
Preventing rashes is not always possible in babies, who sometimes have an existing skin condition like milia at birth. In general, older children should avoid contact with things they are allergic to, and parents should avoid situations that could irritate their baby's skin, such as leaving a soiled diaper on too long. To prevent excessive dryness and related rashes, parents should also make sure children diagnosed with eczema moisturize their skin regularly and avoid harsh cleansers, long baths and very hot water.
Warning
Although rashes on babies and children are usually not a cause for alarm, they occasionally require prompt medical attention. Seattle Children's Hospital advises parents to seek medical assistance if their child's rash produces pain when touched or looks infected. A qualified healthcare professional may also need to examine children with rashes who seem sick, have a fever above approximately 100 degrees Fahrenheit or have bumps filled with clear fluid or pus. If your child cannot move or is extremely weak, call 911 at once.
