Rash

Rash 

Rashes in children are very common. Rashes are one of the most common reasons parents visit the doctor with their child. In most cases a rash does not indicate a serious condition, but in some cases they do.

Types of rashes

There are many different types of rashes:

• Heat rash.
• Nappy rash.
• Eczema.
• Viral rashes such as chicken pox, rubella, measles, slapped cheek.
• Cellulitis.
• Fungal rash.
• Allergic reaction including food, medicine or skin contact.

If children are well and show no other symptoms with their rash, then they can simply be observed for a couple of days. Many rashes will disappear without any treatment. One type of rash can have different causes.

When to seek help

If your child has:

• A fever and purplish patches or tiny red dots that do not blanch, which may be a sign of sepsis and meningitis.
• A high temperature in addition to the rash.
• Vomiting.
• Breathing difficulties.
• Signs of being generally unwell and not acting themselves.
• If you are concerned at all, seek medical attention.

Treatment

Treating your child’s rash depends on their overall condition, however general ways to treat rashes may include:

• Bacterial skin infections should be treated with topical antibiotics.
• Antihistamines may be required to reduce the itching.
• Cool baths.
• Cortisone creams if applicable.

Points to remember

• Rashes are caused by many different things.
• Whilst people have been known to use the ‘glass test’ to assess severity of a rash, please note this is not always 100 % reliable.
• If the rash persists consult you doctor.
• If your child is unwell with the rash seek medical advice.

[pubble][/pubble]