1. Press for Emergency
If a rash appears on your baby or toddler, a good test for seriousness is to press on it. If you press on the rash and it turns white, it is probably not serious and you can watch the rash over the next couple of days. The only time to worry with these baby bumps and rashes is if they are accompanied by fever, lethargy or cough. If the rash doesn't turn pale or you can still see the rash through a glass pressed on the rash then you should call the doctor. This is most likely a petechial rash and could indicate a serious bacterial or viral infection.
2. Harmless Baby Bumps
New baby rashes show up during the transition from womb life. Little white bumps on the face are from blocked oil glands and will eventually open and disintegrate. A hive-looking rash, or Erthem Toxicum, is common and will go away without any treatment within a few weeks, at the most. Little pink pimples are a form of acne caused by maternal hormones in the womb. While they look ugly, typical baby face rashes will fade in time with no treatment.
3. Toddler Trouble
Most toddler rashes will go away with minor or no treatment. If the center of a bump is dented in, it is a molluscom rash caused by a virus. It will eventually go away. Raised blisters that crust indicate impetigo. They are contagious and require a cycle of antibiotics from your doctor. If you see crusting blisters on the body that multiply, it is probably chicken pox.
4. Allergic Rashes
An allergic reaction to food will cause angry, raised rashes commonly called wheals. The allergy will go away over time, and you may never figure out what caused it. Call your doctor to ask about using an antihistamine to treat it. In extreme cases, a steroid is prescribed. Peanut allergies cause a dramatic and severe reaction. Call your doctor or 911, if the child is having trouble breathing. Most allergy-inducing foods are not recommended until the age of 3.
5. Baby Bottom Rashes
Rashes on baby genitals and bottoms are common from wearing diapers. You only need to call your doctor if the baby is losing weight, large nodules form, your baby has a fever or if the rash spreads to the arms, face or scalp. As you introduce new foods, a diaper rash may form as she adjusts to the new food. Changing diapers often or letting babies run around without a diaper will help diaper rash go away more quickly. Zinc oxide cream will soothe and heal the rash.
