Saturday, April 24, 2010

Can someone help regarding a skin rash?

My 5 month old daughter began to develop a rash after being on oatmeal cereal for 4 days. I immediately took her off of it 4 days ago, tried barley for a day which didn't work out, and put her back on rice. However, the rash has yet to clear up and it appears to me it has spread to her back. It initially started on her neck. There was a little on her chest, but nothing on her arms, belly or legs. My question is, has anyone been in this situation before and if so, how long does it take for the rash to clear? I am trying to avoid bothering her doctor if at all possible...unless it's a dire emergency. Thanks!|||It's not a food allergy if it started in one place and has spread. It is probably a contact dermatitis which is an allergic reaction to something she touched. New soap, shampoo, detergent? Go to the pharmacy and ask for something to give her that is over the counter like a cream or benadryl.





On a side note. Many viruses in children can cause rashes. If she is sick with congestion or runny nose it could be that.|||You don't describe what the rash looks like so it's difficult to say. I appreciate that you don't want to bother the doctor and although it could well have been caused by a change in her diet, it could just as easily be unrelated - often babies get a rash when they have a virus. I think that at such a young age you can't afford to take chances and the doctor won't mind you bothering him - you don't have to take his advice but you will at least feel reassured that you've had her checked out. Hope she's better soon!|||Common causes of rashes include:





anxiety


allergies, for example to foods, dyes, medicines, insect stings; such rashes are often called hives. Some people are sensitive to metals such as zinc or nickel


skin contact with an irritant


infection, e.g., by the viruses that cause chickenpox, smallpox, cold sores and measles


reaction to vaccination


skin diseases such as eczema or acne


autoimmune disorders such as psoriasis


exposure to sun (sunburn) or heat


lead poisoning


irritation such as caused by abrasives impregnated in clothing rubbing the skin. The cloth itself may be abrasive enough for some toddlers





Using a slightly cool wet towel for application might helps on the rashes.





But if your child develops a fever, seems drowsy and less active as before, or irritable, it is most advisable to see a doctor.

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