Common Causes of Skin Rashes

Importance of Prompt Care for Skin Rashes

Each year, more than 12 million children in the US visit pediatricians due to skin rashes. Rashes are not always just a minor irritation; they can be a sign of something more serious. It’s important to consult a trusted pediatrician for urgent care and answers.

Depending on the child’s age and the location of the rash, it could be diaper rash, eczema, or measles. Rashes can be caused by irritants or viruses.

With locations in Lakewood and Highlands Ranch, Colorado, Academy Park Pediatrics offers urgent sick visits for concerning rashes. Here are key signs that indicate the need for prompt medical attention.

Identifying Specific Rashes

If your child has a fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and then develops a rash, it could be measles. Look out for white spots in the mouth. Measles can be severe in children.

Chickenpox also presents with fever and itchy patches. Ensure that vaccinations are up to date during regular well-child visits to prevent it.

Seeking Urgent Care

If a rash appears near the eyes, it could indicate blepharitis or allergies. Immediate medical attention is necessary.

Monitoring and Managing Rashes

While most rashes subside within a few days, it is important to monitor them closely. If a rash worsens despite using over-the-counter ointments or home remedies, it is advisable to seek medical advice. Some rashes can be a sign of an underlying health issue and may require professional treatment. Keep the affected area clean and dry, and avoid scratching to prevent infection. If the rash is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, pain, or swelling, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Signs of Serious Conditions

Colored spots on the rash that do not fade could be purpura, indicating a blood hemorrhage and potentially a serious underlying condition.

When to Seek Help

Rashes that are itchy and bleed, have a crust, or resemble blisters with pus should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider. Swelling or a wet appearance may indicate an infection.

If the rash is accompanied by a fever, pain, or spreading quickly, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. Additionally, if the rash is causing difficulty breathing, swallowing, or is affecting a large area of the body, seek help immediately.

Consulting a Professional

Diaper rashes that spread or occur in skin creases may require treatment. Seeking advice from a healthcare professional for severe cases is crucial. They can provide proper diagnosis and recommend the appropriate treatment to help alleviate the rash and prevent it from worsening. Remember, it’s always better to be safe and seek help from a professional when dealing with severe diaper rashes.

Monitor for Infection

When dealing with rashes, watch for signs of infection. Urgent care is necessary for rashes accompanied by additional symptoms such as fever, nausea, or pain.

• Fever
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Pain
• Bruises
• Peeling
• Boils
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Peeling skin
• Confusion
• Sensitivity to light

For urgent care, contact our staff by phone or complete an online form.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Childhood Rashes

While sudden rashes may cause alarm, many childhood skin rashes can be treated at home with over-the-counter medications. Pediatric dermatologist Dr. Amy Gilliam shares insights on the appropriate time to seek medical help.

It is important to seek medical attention for childhood rashes in the following situations:

• If the rash is accompanied by a high fever, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face or tongue, seek immediate medical help.
• If the rash is severe, spreading rapidly, or causing your child significant discomfort, it is best to consult a doctor.
• If the rash is not improving with over-the-counter treatments after a few days, a visit to the pediatrician may be necessary.
• If your child has a history of allergies or skin conditions, it is advisable to seek medical guidance for any new rashes that appear.

Remember, it is always better to be cautious when it comes to your child’s health. Consulting a healthcare professional can help ensure proper diagnosis and treatment for any childhood rashes.

Identifying Different Rashes

Itchy red welts that move around could be hives, often triggered by allergies or viral infections. Manage at home unless there is swelling or breathing difficulties.

Treating Allergic Reactions

Contact allergy rashes result from skin contact with irritants like chemicals or plants. Cease exposure, use ointments, and seek help if the rash spreads or worsens.

In addition to these steps, it is important to wash the affected area with mild soap and water to remove any remaining irritants. Applying a cold compress can help reduce inflammation and itching. Over-the-counter antihistamines can also provide relief from itching and discomfort. If the rash does not improve or if you experience difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, seek immediate medical attention as it could be a sign of a severe allergic reaction.

Managing Skin Infections

Impetigo, a bacterial infection, presents with red, raw, crusty skin spots. Treat with ointments and consult for rashes that spread with fever.

Frequent hand washing is essential in preventing skin infections. Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered to prevent bacteria from entering the skin. Avoid sharing personal items such as towels and razors to reduce the risk of spreading infections. Finally, maintaining good overall hygiene and staying up to date on vaccinations can also help prevent skin infections.

Noting Medication Allergies

Rashes from medication allergies manifest as red bumps. Seek medical attention if they appear on the lips, eyes, or if the skin seems cracked and bleeding.

Some common symptoms of medication allergies include itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, and hives. It’s important to keep a record of any medications that have caused an allergic reaction in the past to avoid future incidents.

Recognizing Viral Infections

Viral infections like fifth disease cause rashes; isolate the child and monitor for fever and worsening rash, seeking medical advice if necessary. Molluscum contagiosum, a viral infection, leads to harmless bumps. Consult a doctor if it persists.

Rashes can sometimes be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, especially if they are accompanied by other symptoms such as high fever, difficulty breathing, or severe pain. It is important to seek urgent medical attention if you notice any of these symptoms along with the rash.

If the rash is spreading rapidly, causing extreme discomfort, or showing signs of infection such as pus or oozing, it is also important to seek medical help promptly. In some cases, rashes can be a sign of an allergic reaction or a serious infection that requires immediate treatment.

Spotting Rashes That Need Immediate Care

Recognizing signs that prompt urgent medical attention for your child’s rash is crucial, especially if accompanied by fever, cough, or unusual skin characteristics.

Seeking Immediate Attention for Specific Rashes

Rashes near the eyes may indicate infections or allergies, necessitating immediate healthcare provider intervention.

It is important to seek medical attention if you notice a rash developing near your eyes, as it could be a sign of a more serious condition. Rashes can be caused by various factors such as allergies, infections, or skin conditions. In some cases, a rash near the eyes could be a symptom of an underlying medical issue that requires immediate treatment.

Addressing Persistent Rashes

While most rashes resolve on their own, persistent or worsening rashes may require medical evaluation for proper treatment.

Identifying Urgent Situations

Colored spots that don’t fade with pressure, itching leading to bleeding, or wet-looking rashes should be evaluated by a medical professional promptly.

Additional symptoms like fever, nausea, vomiting, or pain with the rash may indicate an infection, demanding urgent evaluation. For infants under six months with rashes, immediate medical advice is recommended. Contact your pediatrician if you have any concerns about your child’s rash.