Is this rash an allergic reaction?
I’ve been reading some common concerns on social media
regarding food allergies and one question that often comes up is,
“Is this rash an allergic reaction?” Please see my response below.
Always consult with your medical provider regarding any medical concerns. If your child develops a rash and any other reactions such as vomiting, swelling of the face, confusion, lethargy then this could be anaphylaxis. If you suspect anaphylaxis, the treatment is EPI FIRST, EPI FAST. If your child has an asymptomatic rash, meaning it has appeared with no other symptoms then there could be MANY culprits. Some common causes of infant rash include but are not limited to:
Viral exanthem - This is a rash that occurs when a virus is present. Some viruses that can cause viral exanthem include common cold viruses, rubella, measles, mono, and chickenpox. A virus may cause other symptoms such as headache, body aches, fatigue, and sore throat. Viral exanthem is a wide spread red rash that may or may not be itchy. It typically lasts a few days to a few weeks and resolves on its own without any long lasting complications. The rash itself is not contagious but the virus that caused the rash may be.
Atopic dermatitis - Atopic dermatitis is also known as eczema and causes dry, itchy, inflamed skin. This is a chronic condition characterized by times of no symptoms and then "flares." Eczema presents differently in infants and children. Infants often have dry, inflamed, itchy skin to the scalp, face, knees and elbows. In toddlers and older children, eczema is often in the creases of the elbows, behind the knees, and wrists. This does not accompany any other allergic reaction symptoms such as swelling of the face or mouth, shortness of breath, confusion. Food allergy is more common in children with eczema.
Diaper rash - Diaper rash can become pretty severe and can also be complicated by fungal growth called candida diaper rash. Yeast and other bacteria are normally on your skin but yeast can overgrow in areas that are often moist. Diaper rashes can occur when the material on the babies skin is irritating, when the diaper has been wet for too long, or when harsh chemicals are in diaper and/or wipes. Diaper rash does not cause other symptoms of an allergic reaction and should not cause fever or rash to other parts of the body. Diaper rash improves with diaper rash cream, increased air to the area (think diaper free time when possible), and using a warm soft cloth to wipe or unscented baby wipe.
Please contact me if you’d like individualized guidance on managing your child’s food allergy!
