RASHES, WIDESPREAD AND CAUSE UNKNOWN

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR WIDESPREAD RASHES (Pending Talking with Your Doctor)

For Non-Itchy Rashes: No treatment is necessary, except for heat rashes which respond to cool baths.
For Itchy Rashes: Wash the skin once with soap to remove irritants. Then give your child cool baths without any soap 4 times per day for 10 minutes whenever the itch is uncomfortable (caution: avoid any chill). Follow with calamine lotion or a baking soda solution (1 teaspoon in 4 ounces of water).
Contagiousness: Avoid contact with other children and especially pregnant women until a diagnosis is made. Most viral rashes are contagious (especially if a fever is present). Your child can return to day care or school after the rash is gone or your doctor says it's safe to return with the rash.
Expected Course: Most viral rashes disappear within 48 hours.
Call Your Doctor If:
- Your child becomes worse or develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2004

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