Diagnosing and managing childhood rashes

Viral rashes

Viral rashes are one of the most common types of rashes in children and often appear alongside other symptoms like a fever, runny nose, or sore throat. They’re usually caused by common viruses such as those that lead to colds. These rashes often look like blotchy red spots commonly affecting most of the body and usually go away on their own within a few days. While they can look worrying, most viral rashes aren’t serious but it’s always a good idea to check with a doctor if you’re unsure or if your child seems unwell.

Allergic rashes

Allergic rashes can happen suddenly and may be triggered by things like certain foods, medications, or other allergens. Food allergies might cause a rash just around the mouth or more widespread skin reactions and sometimes come with other symptoms like tummy troubles or poor growth. Medication related rashes, such as to antibiotics can be widespread and may include a fever. Allergic rashes are often raised, itchy, and can even blister when the skin becomes very inflamed. If you ever suspect an allergic reaction, it’s important to get medical advice right away.

Heat rashes

This common eruption in babies occurs most commonly in hot or humid conditions. This is not always due to weather, it can happen in areas where the skin gets too warm for example, where thick clothing is in contact with the skin, or if thick, greasy creams have been applied. It happens when sweat ducts become blocked or inflamed, causing tiny bumps on the skin in the affected areas, most often in skin folds or on the trunk. These can be itchy and irritating. To help, keep your child cool with loose cotton clothing, cool baths, and gentle skincare products. If the rash doesn’t improve or your child seems unwell, it’s best to check in with a healthcare professional.

Slapped cheek syndrome

Slapped cheek syndrome otherwise known as erythema infectiosum, is caused by Parvovirus B19. This virus causes symptoms such as fever and headache, which are followed by a hot rash affecting the cheeks. The rash can sometimes spread to other areas on the body such as the chest, stomach, arms and thighs. This often has a raised, lace-like appearance and may be itchy. It is a self-limiting illness and resolves on its own, but can be supported with the use of cool compresses to the skin and paracetamol if fever or pain are present.

Eczema/atopic dermatitis

Eczema (also called atopic dermatitis) is a long-term skin condition that comes and goes, and can make your child’s skin very itchy and uncomfortable. It presents as an itchy eruption on the skin, typically on the cheeks and scalp in babies, and more widespread or in the skin folds (like elbows and knees) of older infants and young children. The skin can look red, flaky, or even scaly.

One of the main areas of treatment is to keep the skin well hydrated with emollients. Applying emollient regularly (several times a day or when the skin looks dry) to all skin is important, using bland non-perfumed products is also recommended. If the rash is not improving or is causing ongoing symptoms of itch and irritation, then it's a good idea to see a healthcare professional.

Hand, foot and mouth disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common viral illness that spreads easily between young children. It usually causes small blisters or sores on the hands, feet, bottom, and inside the mouth. Children may also have a mild fever, tummy ache, or feel off their food. Although it can look uncomfortable, HFMD usually gets better on its own with some simple care. Keep your child comfortable with pain relief, offering plenty of fluids, and gently looking after their skin with emollients.

What to look out for if you suspect your child has ‘problem’ skin?

Skin problems are very common in babies and young children. This can be due to several factors, like their delicate skin barrier, family history, the environment, their developing immune system, illnesses, or contact with irritating substances.

Signs of skin issues can include: