Infant Skin RashesInfant skin rashes are one of the most shocking things for new mothers to get used to. Rashes appear at a shocking frequency, however, most are perfectly normal. Knowing which of your child’s rashes are indications of a much more serious condition can be life saving. Very young skin doesn’t work quite right when it first comes into contact with the air. Nearly all children suffer from at least one infant skin rash at some point or another, and infants are especially prone to suffer from rashes. Conversely, some rashes are indications of very serious diseases. Knowing the difference can, not only save a life but also, avoid some unnecessary visits to the doctor. Common rashes and simple cures
In the first week of life, nearly half of all children will find themselves covered in red spots and blotches.
Children are very susceptible to the symptoms of heat rash. The condition is most often seen as a rash of clear bumps. These are actually clogged sweat ducts and will eventually disappear on their own. They may be clear or red, and usually leave a bit of a scab behind before going away completely. Infant skin is also very susceptible to contact dermatitis reactions with any number of otherwise benign things, such as shampoo or soap, blankets or just about anything. It is wise to treat infant skin very gingerly and use the mildest possible soaps and moisturizers. Diaper rash/nappy rash is also a very common type of contact dermatitis among infants. Besides the usual cause, some instances are actually caused to something in the wipes used. Infections A rather common infection is impetigo , caused by staph bacteria. It causes a series of pustules to form that eventually rupture and create a golden crust. Treatment with an over-the-counter anti-bacterial salve is usually sufficient – be sure and ask the pharmacist if it is otherwise suitable for infant skin. Though not common, infants in day-care situations are more likely to be exposed to the fungus that causes ringworm. This appears as a series of circles that continue to get larger and may look blistered on top. Some serious infant skin rashes can be indications of very serious viruses such as chicken pox, roseola, measles, fifth’s disease or rubella. Most of these ailments are accompanied by a fever. If your child has a worrisome rash that doesn’t look normal and it doesn’t disappear when you press on it, it could indicate burst blood vessels of something as serious as meningitis. If this or fever are present, you should take your infant to the emergency room immediately. Most infant skin rashes, however, can be treated simply by treating your infant’s skin as the very sensitive thing it is.
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