Two Common Types of Rashes in Children

Rami Azzouz maintains a Dalton, Georgia, pediatrics office and offers care for a wide range of childhood conditions. One common issue Rami Azzouz and his team treat is rashes, including contact allergy rashes and those caused by viral illness.

With skin that is particularly vulnerable to irritation, kids get many of the same contact allergy rashes as adults. Causes can range from poison ivy to reaction to the chemicals found in shampoo or sunscreen. In general, such rashes are recognizable as being pink, bumpy, and extremely itchy.

While such rashes typically go away on their own, a soothing ointment or medication with 1 percent hydrocortisone may be recommended. Always watch for a rash that seems to spread or progresses to open, raw, and infected skin, as stronger medications may be needed.

Rashes also can be caused by viral illnesses, but tend to go away over time when not accompanied by high fever. Even if the rash is mild, it’s important to isolate the sick child, as such conditions are contagious. Contact a physician if a high fever lasts more than one to two days.