Allergic Reaction Rashes in Children: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

An allergic reaction can happen to anyone, and when it happens to a child, it can be more severe. A skin rash is one of the most common signs of an allergy. Your dermatologist can help. Dr. W. Edward Collins and Dr. Janna Nunez-Gussman at Collins Nunez in Beaumont, TX, provide a wide range of dermatology services, including the treatment of allergic reactions in children.

How Allergies Affect Children

When a child is exposed to a substance they are allergic to, common signs and symptoms that may occur are sneezing, coughing, itchy and watery eyes, a scratchy throat, and a skin rash. A skin rash can be localized in one area or spread out, covering large areas of a child’s body.

Common substances that can cause an allergic response are known as allergens. An allergic skin rash can develop from eating foods the child is allergic to, including dairy, peanuts, and seafood. An allergic skin rash can also develop from skin contact with an allergen like a harsh chemical or a toxic plant, such as poison ivy. Medications can also cause an allergic reaction called a rash.

An allergic skin rash is also commonly known as hives. The allergic skin rash appears as raised, itchy bumps on the surface of your child’s skin. The best way to help prevent an allergic reaction or rash is to find out what your child is allergic to so they can avoid the substance. Your dermatologist may recommend allergy testing to determine which allergens affect your child. Once you and your child know what is causing the allergic reaction, avoiding the substance is the best way to prevent an allergic response. Your child should also:

• Keep track of what is eaten to help determine which foods your child reacts to
• Wear long sleeves and long pants if going outdoors or being around toxic plants
• Keep an inhaler handy if allergic symptoms are severe

For a mild rash, your child may get relief by taking over-the-counter oral or topical antihistamine medications or taking soothing oatmeal baths to control itching. For a moderate-to-severe allergic rash, you should bring your child in to visit the dermatologist, who may recommend:

• Antibiotics, if the rash has caused an infection
• Cortisone cream, to reduce itching
• Oral corticosteroids to decrease redness, swelling, and itching
• Prescription antihistamines to decrease itching

Want To Know More About Allergic Reaction Rashes in Children?

To find out more about the causes, signs, symptoms, and treatment of your child’s allergic reaction rash, talk with the experts. Call Dr. W. Edward Collins and Dr. Janna Nunez-Gussman at Collins Nunez in Beaumont, TX. You can reach them in the office by calling (409) 835-1333, so call today.