Summertime means playing, running, splashing and exploring! All of these activities can leave kids in Central Oregon with a number of different skin complaints. Katie Powell, PNP compiled a list of common skin rashes in children, and how to prevent and treat them.
Heat Rash (aka “prickly heat rash” or “miliaria”)
Heat rash is most frequently seen in babies and young children when sweat glands become blocked and perspiration can’t escape. It is more common in hot weather, especially if kids are wearing warm or non-breathable clothing. The rash looks like patches of small, pink, raised bumps. It can be located anywhere, but is most frequently found in the skin folds (neck, armpits, elbows and knees).
- Prevention: Keep babies or young children in a cool, dry place. Be sure to dress them in loose, breathable clothing (such as cotton). Use a fan or air conditioning on hot days.
- Treatment: Leave areas of irritated skin open to the air. Don’t use lotion or skin ointments. You can also give the child a cool bath.
Poisonous Plant Rashes
Western Poison Ivy and Pacific Poison Oak are both native to the Pacific Northwest. Contact with either plant can lead to painful irritation and blistering of the skin 12-24 hours after exposure. The rash is caused by contact with the plant’s oil, which can be located on the leaves, stem or berries. These two poisonous plants look very similar — they can both grow as shrubs reaching 3 to 10 feet tall or as trailing ground vines. Leaf color varies from green to slightly red, and the leaves are clustered in groups of 3 leaflets. In the fall, white berries grow in clusters on the stems. A good rule of thumb is, “Leaves of three, let it be! Berries of white, poison in sight!”.
- Prevention: Reducing exposure is key. Teach kids what to look for, and encourage them to avoid touching these plants. Hike in long pants and socks. Remove any contaminated clothing right away, as the oil from the plant can transfer from clothing to the skin.
- Treatment: If exposed, rinse the area as soon as possible with lots of cool water and soap. If the rash is severe, located on your child’s face or groin, or if you notice signs of infection (fever, redness, swelling) be sure to talk with your pediatric provider right away.
Swimmer’s Itch (aka “cercarial dermatitis”):
Swimmer’s itch can appear after playing in lakes and other bodies of water across Oregon. The rash, which looks like small red or purple raised welts or bumps, is typically found on areas of the skin that were submerged in water and not covered by a swimsuit. As the name suggests, it is quite itchy. It is caused by microscopic parasites that live in shallow, warm, often marshy water, especially along the shoreline.
- Prevention: When possible, avoid swimming near marshy areas. After swimming, immediately rinse off or dry the skin with a towel.
- Treatment: If your child develops swimmer’s itch, be sure to keep their nails short and discourage scratching, as this can lead to an infection. You can apply a cool compress to the itchy skin or use an oatmeal bath for relief.
If you’re ever concerned about your child’s rash or think there may be signs of infection, please call your Summit Pediatrics provider at (541) 706 2555.