5 Common Causes of Rashes in Toddlers

When your child is uncomfortable or itchy because of a skin rash, getting a proper diagnosis is always a good idea so you know how to treat it. At American Pediatrics, we offer comprehensive physical exams and in-office lab tests to identify the cause of itchy or painful rash.

Our board-certified pediatricians tailor a treatment plan to ease your toddler’s symptoms and prevent the rash from spreading elsewhere. In some cases, we can also provide medications and other resources to prevent certain rashes from developing in the first place.

While many types of skin rashes can affect young children, here’s a look at the five most common rash causes:

1. Heat rash

Heat rash is a patchy, red rash that forms on areas of the body where the skin folds, such as the elbows, thighs, and neck. Toddlers can develop heat rash when the pores of their sweat glands become blocked, preventing sweat from escaping.

Treatment for heat rash usually involves cool baths to calm irritated skin. Dress your child in lightweight clothing and keep them in a cool space when possible to keep the rash from worsening.

2. Dermatitis

Dermatitis describes any condition that causes inflammation in the skin. Common dermatitis affecting toddlers include eczema, diaper rash, cradle cap, and contact dermatitis, a rash triggered by an allergic reaction.

Symptoms of dermatitis can include redness, swelling, skin dryness, and itchiness. Eczema and cradle cap may also cause scaly patches to form on the skin.

Treatment for dermatitis often starts with avoiding known allergens and other inflammation triggers. Some children may need topical or oral medications to calm the itchiness and irritation of skin rashes.

3. Bacterial infections

Bacterial infections can cause itchiness, red rashes, and blisters on a toddler’s skin. Common types of bacterial infections include impetigo and scarlet fever.

Treatment for bacterial infections may include over-the-counter or prescription antibiotics to alleviate skin discomfort. You also need to keep your child from scratching the rash, which can spread to other parts of the body and other people.

4. Viral infections

Viral infections like chickenpox, measles, and hand, foot, and mouth diseases are common in toddlers. The infections are spread from person to person contact or by touching contaminated objects and then touching your face.

Kids with viral infections may develop a red, intensely itchy rash on one area of their body or a more widespread rash. Children with chickenpox also develop blisters that can break open and ooze fluids before crusting over.

Many viral infections don’t require treatment; the infection must run its course. However, your child may need calamine lotion or other topical creams to reduce itching and discomfort. You should also keep your child away from others to prevent the spread of infection.

5. Fungal infections

Fungal infections like ringworm cause oval or round red skin patches to form a ring. The patches can be itchy or even painful, and your child’s skin may become inflamed.

Treating a fungal infection may involve over-the-counter or prescription antifungal creams. Ensure your child doesn’t share toys and other personal items with other family members until the infection clears.

Call American Pediatrics in Corona, Eastvale, or Irvine, California, to learn more about childhood skin rashes or book a diagnostic evaluation online today to get a diagnosis for your toddler’s rash symptoms.