24 Sep 2018 | 6 min Read
Babychakra
Author | 1369 Articles
Medically reviewed by
Dr Mythily Sindhur
When you notice a rash on your child’s body, you will get a little anxious. What could be the cause? Is it serious? Should you take your child to the doctor? All these questions chase each other in your mind. You will be relieved to know that baby skin rash is quite common. And, they are usually not due to a serious condition. Most often, rashes go away on their own. All you need to do is try and reduce the itching and discomfort your child is facing. So, let’s explore how you can opt for the right baby skin rashes treatment to avoid the baby’s discomfort.
We have tried to demystify the subject for you. Read on to find out the seven most common causes of skin rashes in babies.
1. Chicken Pox
It is less common nowadays because vaccines are available, but every mother dreads chickenpox. A highly contagious viral infection brings on a rash that is more like a collection of blisters. Treatment of chickenpox involves trimming your child’s fingernails to prevent scratching. To reduce the itching, apply calamine lotion to the affected area.
2. Prickly Heat
In peak summer, because of heat and humidity, adults and kids develop rashes arising from prickly heat caused by blocked sweat ducts. The best way to deal with it is to dress your child in clothes that keep the skin cool and dry. Avoid ointments, as they keep the skin warm and moist. However, medicated powders can bring relief.
3. Diaper Rash
Most babies get diaper rashes at some time or the other despite you taking preventive measures. This happens because the sensitive skin of your baby comes into close contact with pee and poo. Frequent change of diapers and application of diaper cream is what you should do to tackle the problem. Also, it is essential to leave your baby diaper-free for several hours of the day. Also, read diaper rash treatment.
4. Hives
Also called urticaria, this rash is worrisome if accompanied by wheezing. Take your child to the doctor immediately. Hives are treated with antihistamines. Among the skin rashes in kids, Hives are one of the most common types.
5. Insect Bites
Your child might get bitten by insects – ants or mosquitoes – at home, or he wanders into the garden. This could result in a rash. Clean the bitten area, use a cold compress to treat swelling, and apply a soothing lotion. For bee and wasp stings, it is better to consult a doctor.
Eczema
Eczema is common in children with allergies or asthma. Unlike other skin rashes in children, this is a chronic condition. Lubricating creams help treat the situation, but sometimes topical steroids are required.
Cellulitis
Cellulitis is a common bacterial skin illness in children that can be dangerous. Under these skin rashes in children, the skin gets swollen and red, and it is usually unpleasant and heated to the touch. Cellulitis mainly affects the lower legs, although it can also affect the face, arms, and other body parts.
Erythema Multiforme
An infection or certain medications causes erythema multiforme in children. It’s normally minor rashes that pass in a few weeks. There’s also a rare, severe variety that can harm the lips, genitals, and eyes and is potentially fatal. Erythema multiforme major is the name for this condition.
If you get a skin rash and experience any of the symptoms listed below, visit a board-certified dermatologist or go to the emergency department very away:
Diaper rash is best treated by keeping your baby’s skin as clean and dry as possible. If your baby’s diaper rash doesn’t go away despite your best efforts then you should consult a doctor. If your infant develops a fungal infection, use an antifungal cream – suggested read, how to take care of baby’s skin during summers.
Other common baby skin rashes treatments which you can do just at your home:
If your child is allergic to a certain food or cosmetics, it may result in a rash caused by contact dermatitis. At times, doctors may have to prescribe a topical steroid to treat the condition. Skin rashes in children are not usually something to worry about. However, if they worsen, last longer than a week, are accompanied by fever or show signs of being infected, it is better to consult a physician
Related Articles-
Skin Rashes In Newborns: Skin rashes in newborns are very common. Few of the rashes heal by themselves in a couple of days or a week, but few of them need extra care and medications. Let’s know about 5 common skin rashes in newborns and their treatment.
Chickenpox In Kids: To prevent your child from chickenpox, here we bring you some of the common treatments which you should do for your child! Check out here!
Eczema: Here’s a story of a baby who went through with one of the common skin rashes known as Eczema! Check out the story here!
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