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First Aid: Rashes

First Aid

Rashes can be caused by viruses , bacteria , medicines, heat, allergies, and many other things. Many are only a minor annoyance. But some can be serious and need medical treatment.

Signs and Symptoms

  • redness
  • spots on the skin
  • scaly skin
  • itchiness
  • swelling
  • bumps
  • blisters
  • pimples

What to Do

To ease discomfort:

  • add a few cups of oatmeal to the bath
  • pat the skin dry (instead of rubbing) after a bath or shower
  • don't scrub or scratch the affected skin
  • leave the rash exposed to the air as much as possible

Get Medical Care if:

  • your child also has a fever
  • your child looks sick
  • there are tiny red dots that can't be felt when touched and don't fade when pressed
  • there are bruises not related to injuries
  • there is no improvement after a week

Think Prevention!

Rashes can be hard to avoid. But some types can be prevented:

  • Have kids avoid people with contagious skin rashes.
  • For allergic rashes, try to avoid the substance that causes the reaction.
  • Use sunscreen to avoid sunburn.
  • If your child gets eczema flare-ups, avoid harsh soaps.

Reviewed by: Kate M. Cronan, MD
Date Reviewed: Jun 15, 2018

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