Infant Rash Red Flags: The two rashes every parent must recognise
Any new rash can be a cause of concern and confusion. Is it just an innocent case of infant heat rash, a pesky nappy rash, or could it be something more serious? Baby rash and rashes in children are common and can be triggered by so many different things like allergies, infections or heat. At & Breathe, we recommend parents always see a doctor for any new rash as sometimes be an indication of a more serious health issue.
But, there are two rashes that need urgent and quick medical attention. Keep your little one safe by knowing how to recognise them.
What Is a Rash?
A rash is any noticeable change in the texture or colour of the skin. It can appear as redness, swelling, itching, or irritation. Thankfully most childhood rashes are minor and they often resolve on their own. However, it's important to be able to identify concerning rashes and know when to seek medical advice.
Common Childhood Rashes
Heat Rash:
Heat rash is something many parents come across, especially during New Zealand's warm and humid summers. It is caused by the sweat ducts getting blocked, creating small blisters as sweat becomes trapped under the skin. Young infants are still developing their sweat glands so are more likely to get a heat rash. Heat rash looks like lots of tiny red bumps and usually appear in the areas where your little one sweats the most – places like their neck, armpits, and around their nappy.
Nappy Rash:
Nappy rash is red and irritated skin in the nappy area. It usually happens when the skin gets exposed to moisture and friction. Children often get nappy rash after being in a wet or dirty nappy too long, as a reaction to baby wipes, have a tummy bugs from their skin being in contact with poops often, from a yeast infection or if they are in cloth, ammonia build up from insufficient cleaning. Prevent and treat nappy rash by changing nappies frequently, using non fragranced wipes and using a barrier cream.
Eczema:
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is relatively common in childhood. It shows up as those red and itchy patches that might grace their face, arms, and legs. There are a vast number of factors that trigger eczema rashes and can be different for every child.
Viral Rash:
A viral rash is a response on the skin to either a toxin from the virus or an immune reaction, leading to the appearance of red spots or a rash on your child's skin. This rash may be accompanied by symptoms such as fever or cough. Fortunately, viral rashes are usually temporary and tend to disappear as children recover from the infection.
It is always important to see a doctor if your child develops a new rash or has a rash that is getting worse, or not getting better despite treatment.
The Two Rashes Every Parent Needs to Know About
Cellulitis
Cellulitis is a skin infection that can affect children. It often appears as red, swollen, and tender skin, which may spread rapidly. Some rashes can have a red streak away from the wound site, this shows a more severe infection. It can be caused by bacteria and requires immediate medical attention to prevent complications.
If you suspect your child has cellulitis, take your child to the doctor that day as they will need antibiotics. If the infection is around their eye, they are in a lot of pain, the rash is growing quickly or they have a fever see a doctor urgently.
Although cellulitis is not always preventable, keeping wounds covered for the first 24 hours, even small cuts and scrapes, can help reduce the risk.
Non-blanching rash
Unlike other rashes, a non-blanching rash doesn't fade or change colour when you press it with a glass or finger. It's a sign of blood vessel damage under the skin due to a severe infection such as meningococcal disease or sepsis. If your little one develops a non-blanching rash and is unwell with other worrying symptoms such as a high fever, lethargy, extreme irritability and fast breathing, call an ambulance.
If your child develops a non-blanching rash, call 111 for an ambulance.
This is a medical emergency!
Most rashes your little one will have are minor and can be managed at home with the support of a doctor. Although rashes such as heat rash, nappy rash, eczema, and viral rash, can be worrying, most can be managed at home with the support of your doctor. Remember the signs of cellulitis and non-blanching rashes. These always need prompt or urgent medical attention and are a sign of a significant illness.
If you ever have concerns about your child's rash or their overall health, don't hesitate to see your doctor or call healthline.
Book a first aid course with & Breathe today. Learn how to recognise serious illness in your children and gain the confidence to take the right actions.
