Children are susceptible to a lot of injuries and conditions – one of the most common of which is rashes. Most rashes are just a nuisance to your child and aren’t known to cause serious, life-threatening problems. However, you should look for certain signs that could mean the rash requires a pediatric dermatologist’s care. Read on to learn when you should worry about your child’s rash.
If It’s Spreading Near Your Child’s Eyes
When a rash is spreading near your child’s eyes, you should contact a pediatric dermatologist quickly. In some cases, depending on the type of rash, the skin irritation could spread into the eyes and have consequences to their vision.
If It Isn’t Responding to Over-the-Counter Treatments
Many harmless rashes respond to over-the-counter treatments. While they may not take the rash away completely, they will ease your child’s discomfort. If your child has a rash that isn’t responding to such treatments, you should take them to see a specialist.
If It’s Shaped Like a Bullseye
If your child has a bullseye rash, even if it’s just one around a dot in the center, you should schedule an appointment with a pediatric dermatologist. It could mean that your child was bitten by a tick. A bullseye rash can occur when your child has a bacterial infection known as Lyme disease. Generally, this will form anywhere between 3 to 30 days after your child is bitten by a tick. This rash can expand over time, reaching 12 inches or more in diameter. You should especially seek medical attention for your child if they have flu-like symptoms along with the rash.
When left untreated for long enough, your child may develop chronic Lyme disease that can lead to joint problems or additional bullseye rashes. Your child may have pain in their muscles, bones, nerves, or tendons – or even have a heart arrhythmia, spells with shortness of breath, and inflammation of the spinal cord and brain.
If the Rash Peels or Is on the Hands and Feet Only
You should contact a dermatologist if your child has a rash that’s solely on the feet and hands. This is a sign of keratolysis exfoliativa. It causes air-filled blisters that may burst. It may also cause redness, dryness, and cracking.
This type of rash could signify your child has either contact dermatitis or atopic dermatitis. It could also mean your child has a fungal infection, scabies, or psoriasis. If your child also has a rash in the mouth, it could mean your child has hand, mouth, and foot disease. This infection can cause a sore throat, fever, and a loss of appetite. Fortunately, the issue isn’t serious but is highly contagious.
If You Experience Any of These Symptoms or Issues
You should bring your child to see a pediatric dermatologist if they have a wet or oozing rash. This could mean your child has an infection. If a severe rash is in the diaper area and it has spread beyond that location, you should also contact a skin specialist. Finally, consult a pediatric dermatologist if your child has boils.
Why Choose One of Our Specialists in Pediatric Dermatology in Miami, FL
The Children’s Skin Center has dermatologists and physician’s assistants who are experienced in treating all types of pediatric skin issues, including rashes.
Contact the Children’s Skin Center, serving various locations in Miami and the surrounding Florida area, if your child has a skin-related ailment. You may call or text us at (305)-669-6555.
