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Parent’s Guide

Parent’s Guide: Skin Rashes (Localized & Widespread)

Rashes are very common in children. The key to treatment is deciding if the rash is Localized (one spot, usually from contact) or Widespread (all over, usually from a virus).

1

🔎Identifying the Rash

Localized (Contact):

Appears on one small area (e.g., one hand, or foot). Usually caused by something touching the skin (Poison Ivy, insect bite, nickel allergy, ringworm).

Widespread (Systemic):

Appears on large areas (chest, back, both legs) and matches on both sides of the body. Usually caused by something inside the blood (Virus, drug reaction, food allergy).

The “Glass Test” (Emergency):

If you see purple or dark red dots (Petechiae) that do not fade when you press on them, this is a medical emergency.

2

🚨 When to Get Help

Call 911 Now

  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
  • Child is too weak to stand.

Call Doctor Now or Go to ER

  • Bright red skin peeling in sheets.
  • Rash combined with fever.
  • Baby is < 1 month with water blisters.
  • Purple/blood-colored spots that don’t fade (petechiae).

Contact in 24hrs

  • Rash not improving after 2-3 days of home care
  • Rash spreading or worsening
  • Any other symptoms combined with the rash
3

🏠Immediate Home Care

For Localized Rashes (Contact):

  • Wash Once: Wash with soap to remove the irritant (sap, saliva, chemical). Then, avoid soap on that spot to let it heal.
  • Cold Soak: Use a cold, wet cloth for 10-20 minutes to stop itching.
  • Medicines: Use 1% Hydrocortisone cream for itching. (Exception: Do not use on Ringworm/Fungus).

For Widespread Rashes (Viral/Heat):

  • Cool Baths: Bathe in cool water (no soap) for 10-15 minutes. Baking soda (1/4 cup) can be added for comfort.
  • Antihistamines: If the itch is severe, Benadryl or Zyrtec can help.
  • Fluids: Keep the child hydrated if they have a fever.
4

Prevention & Triggers

  • Avoid Irritants: Watch for reactions to nickel snaps, new detergents, or plants.
  • Heat Rash: Keep the child cool; heat rash appears as fine pink bumps on the neck/chest.
  • Tick Safety: Check for ticks after playing outdoors to prevent Lyme Disease (look for a “Bull’s Eye” rash).

Medically Reviewed by Dr Michael Villadelgado
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you use it. If you are unsure, always call your doctor.