What to give your child for an allergic rash. Rash on a child's body photo with explanations allergy

Children often develop skin rashes in the first years of life. Some of them are physiological norms, while others are allergic. A competent doctor will always be able to distinguish a normal rash from manifestations of allergies, help adjust the child’s lifestyle and prescribe appropriate treatment.

What is an allergic rash

If your child has a rash, you should first consult a pediatrician. Often, an allergic rash, especially in newborns, is confused with prickly heat, erythema, milia, hormonal bloom, etc. Rashes can also be accompanied by diseases such as chickenpox, roseola, measles, rubella, scarlet fever and many others. It is important to know what the rash looks like in one case or another and to distinguish between the symptoms of these diseases so as not to trigger their course. If the pediatrician finds it difficult to make a diagnosis, he can refer you to a dermatologist or infectious disease specialist if a viral disease is suspected.

An allergic rash can occur in both very young children and adolescents.

Diseases characterized by the appearance of an allergic rash:

• atopic dermatitis;
• contact dermatitis;
• hives.

Rash in a child - video by Dr. Komarovsky

The mechanism of skin rashes

The blister is formed due to vasodilation due to the release of histamine by mast cells

When an allergen enters the human body, antibodies begin to be produced. They subsequently accumulate and attach to immune (mast) cells. When the allergen is re-entered and combines with antibodies and mast cells, histamine production begins, which leads to a characteristic reaction. Vasodilation occurs, swelling occurs, the skin may turn red and itch. This mechanism is called immune and is characteristic of urticaria or contact dermatitis.

The non-immune mechanism is characterized by the fact that mast cells release histamine as a result of certain drugs and other allergens entering the body. These external factors can directly affect immune cells:

1. The papillary layer of the dermis swells.
2. The capillaries expand.
3. Their walls become more permeable to blood elements.
4. A blister forms.

Causes and symptoms of allergic rashes

Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, usually appears at two months of age and can bother a child up to three years of age. The reasons are, for example, food and household allergies, concomitant diseases, and genetic predisposition. This is a chronic skin disease - both exacerbations and periods of remission can occur.

Characteristic symptoms:

• itching, burning, worse at night;
• microvesicles and serous papules, when opened, erosions and crusts are formed;
• weeping redness and painful cracks;
• redness of the cheeks, forehead, chin;
• ulcers, pimples;
• bleeding when scratching.

Manifestations of atopic dermatitis - photo gallery

In children from two years of age, eczema appears on the flexor surfaces of the joints: in the popliteal areas, on the inner surfaces of the elbows, etc. The rash appears on the face and limbs in the form of redness and nodular rashes In children under two years of age, eczema is localized on the cheeks and outer sides of the limbs

Contact dermatitis

This type of rash appears in the place where there was contact with the allergen: clothing, household chemicals, cosmetics, plants, dust, pets, etc. The symptoms are similar to the general manifestations of an allergic reaction and disappear after contact with the allergen is eliminated. Signs of the disease:

• redness of the skin, accompanied by swelling, itching - usually occurs on the back, legs and arms, and in the armpits;
• the appearance of small bursting bubbles, after which erosions and crusts remain.

Sometimes the rash is accompanied by fever.

Contact dermatitis in photographs

Hives

The causes of urticaria can be food, medications, household chemicals, cosmetics, insect bites, frost or sun, etc. Symptoms may appear abruptly and also disappear abruptly after some time. Hives can appear on any part of the body, including the head, butt, and lips.

Characteristic symptoms:

• redness and flat blisters;
• itching, burning sensation.

Manifestations of urticaria in the photo

Diagnosis of skin allergies

Allergies can be diagnosed in the following ways:

1. Based on existing symptoms to preliminarily exclude a viral or bacterial disease.
2. Allergy tests. Not recommended for children under three years of age, as they are not informative at this age.
3. Immunological tests. Recommended for any age.
4. Differential diagnosis of diseases accompanied by various types of rashes.

Symptomatic

An allergic reaction can occur for many of the reasons mentioned earlier. In most cases, the cause of the rash is food, aeroallergens, cosmetics, household chemicals, and medications.

Allergies can manifest themselves in more than just a rash. The following signs may also be present:

• lacrimation;
• swelling of the skin around the eyes;
• sneezing, runny nose;
• gastrointestinal disorder (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, intestinal colic) due to taking medications or eating any foods;
• wheezing in the lungs, cough (with respiratory allergies) due to inhalation of gases and dust;
• anaphylactic shock (loss of consciousness, involuntary urination, shortness of breath, convulsions) due to an insect bite or taking medications.

It is not always possible to make a diagnosis based on the nature of the rash alone. The combination of all the symptoms will help to clarify the situation to a greater extent.

Allergy tests allow you to determine the exact cause of the rash.

1. Based on a blood test. The method is expensive and does not provide quick results.
2. Cutaneous and provocative. The allergen is introduced through the skin. The degree of inflammation is then assessed. Typically, 15–20 allergens are used. The test is painless.

Immunological tests

This diagnostic method is considered the safest and most informative. Venous blood is collected from the patient, after which the material is mixed with various allergens.

Differential

Often, an allergic rash can be confused with rashes resulting from an infectious disease. It is necessary to be able to distinguish between symptoms, and also not to trigger the disease, so that unpleasant consequences do not arise.

Features of non-allergic rashes of various origins - table

Manifestations of rash in infectious diseases - photo gallery

The main symptom of roseola is a three-day fever and its sudden disappearance with the simultaneous appearance of a rash. The chickenpox rash appears in waves and is accompanied by a rise in temperature Scarlet fever is characterized by a pinpoint rash and a bright crimson color of the tongue Rubella rashes do not leave traces after the end of the illness The incubation period for measles is 8–14 days

How to find the cause of an allergy - video

Treatment

The basic rules for treating an allergic rash include the following:

1. Following a diet (if the rash is caused by a food allergy).
2. Performing physiotherapeutic procedures.
3. Use of herbal medicine.
4. Taking medications.

An allergic rash must be treated, otherwise it can become chronic.

Diet

The product to which a child is allergic can be identified by exclusion or through one of the diagnostic methods. Based on the results of the analysis, the doctor draws up a specific diet plan and recommends products that can replace the allergen. Sometimes a reaction may be caused not by a specific product, but by one of its components. Food allergies can be accompanied by gastrointestinal disorders, as well as skin rashes, itching, etc.

According to Dr. Evgeniy Komarovsky, 90% of cases of food allergies in children are caused by only 6 foods:

1. Cow's milk. There is also a possibility of intolerance to milk from goats and sheep.
2. Eggs. Namely egg white.
3. Peanut.
4. Other nuts.
5. Soy. It is possible to use soybean oil and lecithin due to the minimal amount of protein.
6. Wheat. Wheat can cause both standard allergic reactions in the form of a rash, difficulty breathing, itching, and celiac disease. This disease is characterized by gluten intolerance, resulting in diarrhea, abdominal pain, low weight gain, and slow growth.

If a child is allergic to any product, then the diet should be adjusted so that the baby receives all the necessary vitamins, minerals, as well as micro- and macroelements!

Products that can cause an allergic reaction are pictured

Soy protein may cause allergic rashes Wheat porridge is the type of cereal that most often causes allergies. Peanuts and tree nuts can be found in a variety of foods, so you should take your food choices seriously
Children with allergies are not recommended to eat the egg white rather than the yolk. Cow's milk protein can cause a serious allergic reaction

Physiotherapy

Phytotherapy

Baths, lotions, and ointments will help relieve allergy symptoms in the form of rashes, itching, and redness. However, it must be taken into account that the cause of the allergic reaction should be eliminated, and not just its consequence.. Before using any herbal infusion or homemade compress, you should consult your doctor. Not every mixture may be suitable for your child, and some can even worsen allergies.

1. Chamomile decoction. It can be added to a bath or used as a lotion. 4 tbsp. l. pour a liter of boiling water and cook for 15 minutes. Then cool.
2. Decoction of succession. 1 tbsp. l. Pour a glass of boiling water over the herbs and cook for 15 minutes, then add to the bathing water. The sequence can have a drying effect, so it is important not to overdo it.
3. Decoction of calendula flowers. Effective as a compress on affected areas of the skin. 1 tsp. Brew crushed calendula flowers in a glass of boiling water and strain.
4. A compress made from fresh potato juice is considered very effective.
5. Pour 3-4 bay leaves with a glass of boiling water. Can be used both as a compress and for oral administration.
6. Birch tar. You can get an excellent ointment against rashes if you mix it with Vaseline in a ratio of 1 to 10.
7. It can be used either separately or together with white clay in a ratio of 1 to 1. Lubricate allergic manifestations on the skin.

The use of medications should be discussed with your doctor, as each of them may well aggravate allergy symptoms. In this case, you must immediately stop using them.

Traditional medicine for the symptomatic treatment of allergies - table

Zinc has a drying effect and is considered effective in combating rashes and skin irritation Birch tar is applied to the affected areas of the skin Bay leaf can be used both externally in the form of a decoction and lotions, and internally It is recommended to wipe the inflamed areas of the skin daily with raw potato juice. A compress of calendula decoction is recommended for allergic rashes Chamomile decoction has a calming effect and is used for skin inflammation and itching You should be careful with the string, as it has a drying effect.

Medicines

Depending on the cause of the allergic reaction and the nature of the rash, the doctor may recommend medications for both external and internal use. Hormonal and non-hormonal ointments and creams can be used to reduce itching, inflammation and redness. This is relevant for contact and atopic dermatitis, as well as for urticaria. If the use of hormonal ointments is required, they are used until the condition improves. Then it will be enough to moisturize the skin with hypoallergenic products. If new rashes appear, your doctor will most likely prescribe oral medications.

How much and how to smear the skin with one or another product is decided only by the doctor. Self-medication is unacceptable.

Medicines for allergy rashes - table

There are 4 generations of antihistamines. Drugs of the 3rd and 4th generations are considered the safest for children - with a minimum of side effects and lack of addiction.

Generations of antihistamines and their features - table

Most 3rd and 4th generation drugs are intended for children aged 6–12 months. Therefore, for a younger child, you should choose a medicine from the second generation rather than from the first, due to the lack of sedation.

Antihistamines in the photo

Xyzal can be used from two years of age Erius syrup is a 4th generation drug and is considered one of the safest for children Cetrin has an anti-inflammatory effect and is not addictive
Zyrtec drops are recommended for use from six months Fenistil can be used both externally (gel) and orally (syrup)
Zodak does not have a sedative effect on the nervous system
Tavegil has a rapid antiallergic effect Side effects of Suprastin include lethargy, drowsiness

Preventive measures

As preventive measures, as well as additional help in alleviating the baby’s condition, it is recommended to follow the following rules:

1. Ventilate the room frequently.
2. Humidify the air in the room where the child is.
3. To walk outside.
4. Maintain careful hygiene.
5. Do not overfeed the child to avoid stress on the gastrointestinal tract.
6. Monitor calcium levels in the body (excess vitamin D leads to calcium deficiency and an allergic reaction).
7. Bath your child in water at a comfortable temperature (not hot).
8. Use after bathing and, if necessary, moisturizer (hypoallergenic).
9. Do not allow your child to scratch skin rashes.
10. Dress your baby in cotton clothes.
11. Avoid stressful situations.
12. Avoid accumulation of dust in the room, avoid wearing woolen clothing, and using aggressive household chemicals.
13. Do not have pets.

Children's rashes come in different forms: those that do not require treatment and those for which medication is recommended. It is important to follow preventive measures to prevent the development of allergies, as well as to lead a lifestyle in which such reactions will be minimized. For mild forms of rashes, it will be enough to use non-hormonal creams and ointments. If the allergic reaction is severe, you may need to take corticosteroids and antihistamines. The main thing is to pay attention to your child and if rashes of unknown origin appear, contact a competent specialist.

Allergic rashes in children affect not only the skin, but also damage to the mucous membranes of the eyes and nose. Particularly dangerous is a generalized allergic reaction that affects the respiratory tract, cardiovascular and endocrine systems, often leading to anaphylactic shock and death.

The types of allergic rashes in children by origin come down to two main options: caused by poor diet or contact with an allergen.

Food

Rash due to food allergies in children is most often caused by foods introduced in the form of complementary foods, artificial formula, and breast milk due to poor nutrition of the mother. An allergic rash in a one-year-old child is associated with errors in diet and drug therapy prescribed for various reasons.

With food allergies, the rash in a child does not have a clear localization, is usually widespread and appears in the form of spots. Parents note an increase in skin manifestations after feeding.

Non-food

A non-food type of allergic rash in an infant occurs quickly after local exposure to an irritant, since the immune defense mechanisms are not fully formed, and the skin is delicate and extremely vulnerable.

If the allergen is identified in time and contact with it is eliminated, the pathology is only local in nature and can be easily eliminated. It is often provoked by the use of low-quality diapers, creams, and powders. Non-food allergies in a child usually present as a rash on the legs. Small red spots are also often located on the buttocks.

Causes

The appearance of an allergic rash in a baby is due to the following reasons:

• illnesses of a woman during pregnancy;
• complications during childbirth, perinatal pathology;
• the presence of allergic diseases in the father or mother;
• taking antibiotics, antiviral and vitamin preparations and other medications by a nursing woman;
• maternal malnutrition;
• artificial feeding;
• drug therapy prescribed to the baby due to illness;
• low-quality children's clothing made from synthetic fabrics;
• bad ecology;
• bites of blood-sucking insects;
• prolonged exposure to fresh air during the flowering period of various plants (birch, quinoa, wormwood, poplar);
• frequent hypothermia;
• excessive insolation during summer;
• long stay in a dusty room;
• close contact with pets (fur, saliva, fluff).

A mild allergic rash in a newborn on the face and chest is often explained by the removal of mother’s hormones obtained in utero. Manifestations of exanthema disappear without medical intervention.

Symptoms

An allergic rash on a child’s body is usually represented by the following elements:

• pink or red spots of various sizes, often prone to merging;
• vesicles, sometimes with hyperemic edging;
• pustules, or small pustules that form when scratching and when a secondary infection occurs.

An allergic rash on the body of a baby is accompanied by swelling of the subcutaneous tissue, thickening of the skin, weeping or dryness. The child is worried about burning and itching. After the severity of the process decreases, skin cracks and peeling appear, crusts form on the cheeks, and faint pigmentation is possible.

In advanced cases, for all types of allergic rashes in children, a violation of the general condition is typical:

• anxiety, causeless crying;
• decreased appetite, regurgitation;
• constant lacrimation, conjunctivitis;
• sleep disturbance due to itchy skin;
• difficulty breathing, coughing.

If a breastfeeding woman consumes allergenic foods, urticaria appears within 3-24 hours. Characterized by unstable stools, in which constipation alternates with diarrhea, often mixed with greens and mucus. With food allergies, the skin of the face, neck, and forearms suffers. Sometimes it is possible for a child to develop an allergic rash on his stomach. In severe cases, life-threatening Quincke's edema develops.

A rash in an infant with an allergy caused by external factors is initially localized at the point of contact - in the elbows, armpits, popliteal fossae, and on the inner surfaces of the thighs. The soles become red and swollen, and blisters appear on them, the contents of which tend to suppurate. Elements of an allergic rash are often found on a child’s bottom.

If measures are not taken in time, allergic rashes on the legs of children can spread to other parts of the body.

The severity of clinical manifestations depends on the characteristics of the body - contact with the same allergic factor can result in a quickly passing rash or anaphylactic shock, often resulting in death.

Which doctor treats an allergic rash in a child?

Treatment of an allergic rash in an infant should begin at its first appearance. Parents should call their local pediatrician. After interviewing and examining the baby, he will give directions for tests and consultations with specialized specialists - an infectious disease specialist, a dermatologist, an allergist.

Allergic skin rashes in children, accompanied by pastiness of the face and neck, wheezing, severe anxiety and other signs of Quincke's edema, require an immediate call to the ambulance.

Diagnostics

The appearance of a rash on the body if an allergy is suspected in a child implies the following diagnostic measures:

• survey of parents - the course of pregnancy, the mother’s taste preferences, living conditions;
• complete blood count (eosinophilia);
• immunogram (increased immunoglobulin E);
• Analysis of urine;
• Checking stool for worm eggs.

To accurately identify the cause of an allergic rash, tests are carried out with the subcutaneous injection of common allergens. But usually they are used after reaching the age of 5-6 years.

Treatment

It is important to identify the allergen and completely eliminate its contact with the baby. Then the doctor will prescribe an individual treatment regimen in accordance with the symptoms and condition of the little patient.

When treating allergic skin rashes in children, the following pharmacological groups of medications are usually used:

• desensitizing drugs - relieve allergic manifestations - Claritin, Zyrtec, Tavegil;
• sorbents - Polysorb, Enterosgel, Smecta;
• probiotics that normalize intestinal microflora - Linex, Bifidumbacterin;
• hormonal agents - Prednisolone, Dexamethasone;
• immunomodulators - Viferon;
• antibiotics - for the treatment of pyoderma - Cefazolin.

Medicines are prescribed in the acute phase of allergies; they neutralize toxins, relieve swelling, itching, inflammation, preventing anaphylactic shock.

Drugs administered orally must be ground and mixed with milk or formula. Before use, you must carefully study the instructions.

Treatment in children includes the use of local remedies. Hormonal ointments, gels and creams containing corticosteroids (Advantan, Fluorocort) are used. They help quickly relieve exacerbations and prevent the progression of the disease. Due to unwanted side effects, they are prescribed in short courses and under medical supervision.

Non-hormonal topical agents are used to reduce itching, inflammation and pain. They can be used for a long time, as they have no serious contraindications and rarely cause complications. The moisturizing and wound-healing effect of these drugs is also important. The most popular creams are Bepanten, Elidel, Lanolin, Desitin.

Allergic rashes in newborns, accompanied by redness, swelling, itching, are well relieved by La-Cri cream. It also heals scratch marks.

It is important for parents to know how to behave if a sudden allergy appears:

• calm the baby;
• stop exposure to the allergen - bathe, change clothes, ventilate the room;
• if you have a food allergy, induce vomiting, give a sorbent (Enterosgel, activated carbon);
• drink warm water to remove toxins.

Pathology is also treated with traditional medicine. They use decoctions of oak bark, chamomile, calendula, plantain, and string. They relieve allergic swelling and skin itching when added to the baby’s bath. An infusion of nettle leaves can be used to wipe diaper rash and rashes on the legs. Manifestations of allergies are reduced by cooling compresses using weak soda or saline solutions.

Prevention

Allergies in a child can be prevented with proper care:

• use clothes made from natural fabrics, excluding wool, as it irritates the skin;
• dress according to the weather, avoiding overheating;
• change diapers on time;
• use hypoallergenic detergents;
• exclude contact with pets;
• carry out regular wet cleaning;
• use gels, shampoos, emulsions, creams with natural composition that do not contain hormonal agents or dyes;
• bathe in cool water.

It is advisable to feed newborns with breast milk, as this helps improve immune defense. In this case, it is necessary to exclude citrus fruits, chocolate, coffee, caviar, canned food, nuts, and honey from the mother’s diet. If the baby receives formula, it must be of high quality and hypoallergenic. It is important to control the conditions and shelf life of food products and avoid overfeeding.

To avoid allergy rashes in children, it is important to follow all the pediatrician’s recommendations and not rush into introducing complementary foods and expanding the range of foods. If you have a history of even minimal allergic manifestations, you cannot use non-adapted formulas, milk porridges, and do not introduce cottage cheese for up to 9 months.

An allergy rash in children is a serious sign. If measures are not taken in time, the pathology can lead to anaphylactic shock or provoke the further formation of bronchial asthma, allergic rhinitis, and dermatitis.

Useful video about allergic rashes in children

An allergic rash in children is a skin manifestation of the body’s pathological immune reaction to an external irritant. The rash is often accompanied by itching, sneezing, coughing, or runny nose. Young children are most susceptible to the disease, since their protective system is still developing.

Causes of allergic rashes on the body in children

One of the main causes of hypersensitivity to antigen proteins is hereditary predisposition. If parents have signs of atopic dermatitis, the likelihood of an allergic rash in the child increases to 80%.

Risk factors for allergies are established during fetal development. The development of the pathological process is facilitated by:

• unfavorable course of pregnancy, complicated by toxicosis, oligohydramnios or polyhydramnios;
• exposure through the placenta to toxic substances: nicotine, alcohol, narcotic analgesics;
• bacterial or viral intrauterine infections;
• improper nutrition of a pregnant woman (high-calorie and allergenic foods);
• negative impact of the environment, especially hazardous products.

After birth, provoking factors may include:

The cause of rash in children under one year of age is most often a food allergy (reaction to cow's milk, eggs, cereals).

Clinical manifestations of dermatoses vary in duration, nature (permanent or recurrent), and intensity of manifestation of rash elements.

Hives

Rashes in the form of bright pink blisters appear suddenly on different parts of the body, including the palms, soles, and scalp. Bubbles can merge into a whole spot. The surrounding skin is hyperemic and swollen.

The child is bothered by severe itching; possible increase in body temperature, vomiting, diarrhea, headache. Sometimes the mucous membranes of the mouth, larynx and nasopharynx are affected. Such localization is dangerous for the development of a severe complication - Quincke's edema.

The reaction can last from a few minutes to 4-5 days. Symptoms disappear as quickly as they appear.

Rash due to atopic dermatitis

Redness of the skin and a papular rash are localized on the face and neck, in the area of ​​the knee and elbow joints. Small vesicles and serous papules appear on the cheeks.

Dry skin flakes, rashes in the form of red spots, lumps, acne and pustules are observed. Children scratch their unbearably itchy skin, and the wounds serve as entry points for secondary infection.

Allergic dermatitis

Small pinpoint rashes in a child under 2 years of age are localized on the face, behind the ear, in the groin, and on the bends of the elbow and knee joints.

In older children, the neck area and the inside of the elbow joints are more often affected. The skin looks swollen, cracks, crusts, and erosions appear on the surface.

In adolescents, rashes appear on the back of the hands, forearms, face and neck. In severe cases, the rash covers the entire torso.

Childhood eczema

Chronic skin disease is characterized by alternating periods of exacerbations and remissions. In the acute stage, small rashes and blisters appear on the skin. When they open, they release exudate and weeping erosions form.

After drying, crusts and scales form. At the same time, various elements can be observed: vesicles, erosions and crusts, which alternate with areas of healthy skin. Parts of the body are often affected symmetrically, inflammation and swelling are clearly demarcated.

Toxidermy

Manifestations of allergies are more often associated with taking medications (antibiotics or any syrups with flavors and dyes).

At the initial stage, erythematous spots and nodules appear.

In moderate cases, small vesicles and single large blisters are added to urticaria-type rashes.

A severe degree is characterized by a sharp disruption of the patient’s condition with complications in the form of anaphylactic shock or allergic vasculitis.

Cold allergy

An atypical immune system reaction may develop immediately or some time after cold exposure. The intensity of skin manifestations depends on the individual characteristics of the child’s body.

The rash is combined with signs of weathering of the face (peeling, swelling), as well as pain.

Neurodermatitis

Pathology is observed in children from 2 years of age. The diffuse form is characterized by the appearance of pale pink nodular rashes, which can merge and form continuous zones of infiltration. Most often the face, neck, folds of the arms and legs, scalp, and groin area are affected. The inflamed areas do not have clear boundaries.

Gradually, the skin thickens, peels off, and a skin pattern appears. There is a zone of hyperpigmentation along the perimeter.

Severe itching leads to scratching and the appearance of weeping erosions and crusts. Secondary infection can lead to chronic furunculosis.

A feature of neurodermatitis is a symptom of white dermographism (with weak pressure a white mark remains on the skin).

Less common in children is limited neurodermatitis. Rashes in this form are observed in the groin, ankles and sides of the neck. The lesion consists of a central flaky zone, a middle zone consisting of small red-brown shiny nodules, and an outer zone with increased pigmentation.

How to diagnose allergies?

Sometimes, to make a diagnosis, it is enough for a pediatrician to examine the child and collect a detailed history. However, the symptoms of different types of allergic dermatitis are similar, and atypical forms of the disease are often found.

In such cases, it is necessary to consult an allergist, who will prescribe additional tests:

• general and biochemical blood tests;
• blood test for specific immunoglobulins E, which determines the probable general group of allergens;
• skin allergy tests, which identify the type of irritant.

How to distinguish an allergy from an infection?

To prescribe the correct treatment, it is important to differentiate an allergic rash and manifestations of viral (infectious) exanthema with scarlet fever, measles, chicken pox and other infections.

There are a number of characteristic signs that distinguish the disease.

In addition, in case of an infectious disease, contact with a patient or carrier of the pathogen is detected.

What medications are used to treat allergic rashes in children?

Therapy for allergic conditions depends on the age of the child, the form and severity of the disease. The duration of treatment and dosage is determined by the attending physician.

External therapy

Hormonal ointments (Prednisolone, Hydrocortisone) are effective in the treatment of dermatitis, but have a number of contraindications. They should be used with caution under the supervision of a physician.

Corticosteroid drugs (Lokoid, Advantan, Elokom) reduce burning, redness, and weeping. Children are prescribed short courses.

Antihistamines

Medicines help reduce itching, redness and swelling. Children are prescribed drugs based on loratadine, ceterizine or desloratadine. Erius, Zyrtec, Claritin are effective. The tablets are prescribed once a day.

Membrane stabilizing agents

Medicines relieve swelling and spasm of the smooth muscles of blood vessels and bronchioles. Montelukast, Monax, Singulair, Singlon are used to treat bronchial asthma and allergic rhinitis.

Eliminating pet allergens

If a child is allergic to fur, biological excretions, or animal food, doctors advise relocating the pet.

In cases where this is impossible, you need to minimize contact with the protein irritant:

• Ventilate the room more often and carry out wet cleaning;
• For pet hygiene, use special anti-allergy products;
• install special air filters;
• explain that you should not kiss or bring your pet to your face, and wash your hands more often;
• do not let the animal into the bed;
• Do not involve your child in cleaning the cage or toilet.

What to do if your child has a food allergy?

After identifying the protein allergen, it is completely excluded from the diet. If necessary, the doctor recommends a replacement.

A hypoallergenic diet is selected individually based on the tests performed and is introduced for 7-10 days. Once the status improves, the menu expands. Prepared food is introduced with caution, checking each ingredient.

The drug therapy regimen includes taking antihistamines, sorbents and agents to normalize the functions of the gastrointestinal tract.

How many days does it take for children to have an allergic rash?

The speed of recovery depends on many factors: the duration of contact with the irritant, the degree of skin damage, the presence of complications, etc. In some cases (for example, when exposed to cold), the rash disappears quickly.

Food allergies in the initial stage in a child under one year old disappear in 2-5 days (subject to immediate elimination of the allergen from the diet).

Uncomplicated dermatitis or urticaria is cured in 7-10 days.

Childhood eczema or neurodermatitis can be cured in 2 weeks, but often these diseases become chronic.

Prevention of allergic rashes

Pediatricians advise, first of all, to strengthen the child’s immunity: walk in the fresh air more often, exercise and adhere to the rules of a balanced diet.

It is important to maintain hygiene - careful care of the baby's skin will prevent the appearance of diaper rash.

Medicines should be used as prescribed by a doctor and in accordance with the instructions.

An allergic rash in children is an excessive reaction of the child’s body to a substance that does not pose a catastrophic threat, but can cause many unpleasant moments for parents, and above all for the child himself.

What is an allergic rash?

Skin rash refers to pathological elements that differ from normal skin in texture, color and other characteristics. There are 2 types of rash elements:

• primary;
• secondary.

The first appear directly on healthy skin (erythema, roseola, blisters, pustules, etc.). The latter replace the primary elements (erosion, ulcer, crack, scab and others).

It is best to look at what these pathologies look like in the photo, this will help differentiate the rashes. But in any case, diagnosis is the prerogative of the doctor.

Signs of an allergic rash

It is better to look at the photo to see what this or that element of the rash looks like. Rashes caused by an allergic reaction are characterized by the appearance of the following elements and signs:

• erythema (red spots of varying sizes);
• slight swelling at the site of redness;
• papular-vesicular rashes (small tubercles and blisters);
• severe itching.

The lesions can be isolated or merge, and the rash spreads to healthy areas of the body. The blisters open with the contents pouring out, erosions and ulcers form, and excoriations appear (abrasions as a result of scratching). The skin in the lesion becomes rough, crusts and peeling appear. In infants, allergies are accompanied by a disturbance in their general condition, irritability, tearfulness, and sleep disturbances.

Main allergens and routes of their penetration

An allergen can enter a child’s body in several ways:

• by aspiration (by inhaling air containing an allergenic substance);
• by contact (in contact with skin);
• nutritional (with food products; in this case, allergies can be caused both by the products themselves and by the substances with which they were fertilized during the process of growth and maturation).

Any chemical substance can act as an allergen, and even physical irritants can cause itchy rashes. Typical allergens are:

• house dust;
• pollen of flower plants, poplar fluff, birch catkins, etc.;
• tobacco smoke;
• household chemicals and cosmetics (powders, baby shampoos and bathing gels, creams and lotions);
• food products (chocolate, citrus fruits, hard cheeses, red vegetables and fruits, fish caviar, nuts, eggs; absolutely any food product can be an allergen);
• medicines;
• air flavors, perfumes and deodorants;
• poison and saliva of insects (fleas, lice, mosquitoes, wasps, bees, hornets, bumblebees);
• juice of some plants;
• animal hair;
• climatic factors (cold, heat, UV rays, wind);
• fish food (dry).

Even the material of diapers can act as an allergen.

Factors that provoke allergic rashes in children

The influence of external factors on the human body begins not from the moment of his birth, but from the moment of conception. And all nutritional errors and health problems of a pregnant woman often affect the tendency of her child to have allergic reactions. A rash on a child’s body is more likely to appear if:

• the woman had severe toxicosis during pregnancy;
• she suffered from endocrine disorders, serious pathologies of the liver and kidneys;
• artificial feeding;
• During the gestation period, the expectant mother did not eat rationally, for example, fast food.

The risk of allergy is higher in children:

• living in environmentally unfavorable areas;
• with malnutrition and vitamin deficiency;
• having a hereditary predisposition;
• suffering from frequent dysbiosis;
• for autoimmune pathologies;
• with long-term use of antibacterial agents and some other drugs;
• in case of serious viral pathologies that are difficult to endure;
• suffering from diseases of the digestive system (gastrointestinal tract, pancreas with enzymatic insufficiency, gall bladder and ducts).

There are theories that say that the increase in the number of allergy sufferers is associated with the excessive commitment of modern people to the use of antiseptic and antibacterial agents in everyday life.

Localization of rashes

Allergic rashes can appear on any part of the body. The appearance of rashes in the neck area may indicate a reaction to the powder, but most likely it is prickly heat (if the child is an infant). An allergic rash on the face is a reaction to foods or medications, it can be a reaction to contact with dust, chemicals and pollen. It is necessary to differentiate such rashes from demodicosis and erythema of newborns. High-quality photos can help with this.

A rash in the ear area can be caused by dermatitis and appear due to seborrhea or fungal infection. Rashes on the buttocks, in the perineum on the inner thigh can be irritation from a diaper (disposable diaper) or cream that was used to lubricate the baby’s buttocks. It is necessary to differentiate from diaper dermatitis.

An allergic rash on the body (back and abdomen) may be a sign of a hyperreaction to food or powder that was used to wash clothes. A rash in the chest area must be differentiated from manifestations of infectious pathologies (childhood infections). A rash on the arms and legs must be differentiated from scabies. If the rash is localized in the area of ​​the knees and elbows, most likely it is atopic dermatitis; if the rash begins on the hands, most likely it is a reaction to contact with a chemical agent. Small spots and bumps on the fingers may be evidence of a food allergic reaction that develops against the background of dysbiosis and enzymatic deficiency.

Main diseases with allergic rashes in children

Allergic reactions, for which the main component is skin manifestations, are accompanied by severe itching, dry skin in the affected area, burning and changes in sensitivity.

Urticaria

Urticaria or urticaria is characterized by a rash of large numbers of scarlet blisters. The bulk of the rash appears within the first hour from the onset of the reaction. This is a distinctive feature of this pathology; usually the elements of the rash appear gradually. Urticaria goes away on its own after a few hours or a new wave of rashes begins. In severe cases, body temperature may rise.

Eczema

Childhood eczema is characterized by abundant exudate, otherwise it differs little from this disease in adults. The clinical picture depends on the type of eczematous lesion. Children are more often diagnosed with true, microbial and mycotic eczema. For young children, instead of defining eczema in medicine, the term exudative diathesis is used. This is not actually a disease, but a predisposition to it associated with the constitution. These manifestations in the photo in a neglected state look shocking.

Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis develops at the site of contact with an allergen. The skin in the affected area turns red and itches severely, sometimes to the point of pain. Microbubbles with serous contents may appear, which then burst. Due to severe scratching, the lesions often become infected.

Atopic dermatitis is characterized by rashes on the extensor surfaces of the elbows and knees and on the cheeks. Visually, the lesions look like scarlet spots rising above the surface of the skin. The damaged cover is very peeling. A vivid picture of the disease is visible in the photo.

Diagnosis of allergic rashes

Treatment

Treatment of any disease involves identifying its cause and, if possible, eliminating it. In the case of an allergic rash, it is advisable to identify and eliminate the allergen. Treatment will depend on the disease. To relieve the symptoms of pathology, several groups of drugs are used:

1. General and local antihistamines (Zyrtec, Fenistil, Fenistil-gel Erius, Diazonin, Suprastin, Advantan ointment, cream or emulsion).
2. In case of weeping, topical drying agents can be of plant origin (oak bark, chamomile in the form of wet-drying dressings).
3. Enterororbents (Enterosgel, Laktofiltrum).
4. Preparations containing calcium as hyposensitizing agents.
5. Probiotics, symbiotics or prebiotics (Maxilac-baby, Bifistim, Linex for children).
6. Hormones in severe cases (Celestoderm-B, Akriderm), injectable form is rarely used in particularly severe situations (Prednisolone).
7. Enzymatic preparations (Pankren, Creon), if enzymatic disorders played a role in the development of skin manifestations.

The choice of drug depends on the patient’s age and severity of manifestations. Treatment of allergic diseases with any manifestations requires a hypoallergenic gentle diet. Treatment of allergic rashes is a painstaking and difficult task that must be taken seriously.

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An allergic rash in a child is one of the most common types of reaction to an allergen on the part of the immune system and skin. Such a rash in clinical practice is called allergic urticaria or urticaria (from the Latin urtica - nettle). A characteristic clinical symptom of an allergic rash is papules localized in certain areas or distributed throughout the body. The rash appears as painless but pruritic erythematous blisters, which in children are most often triggered by food allergens.

Factors that provoke allergies and the causes of an allergic rash in a child are combined into the following groups:

• Drug allergens.
• Food allergens.
• Physical factors (sun, overheating, cold).
• Chemical factors (household chemicals, washing powders, etc.).

Infants are most often susceptible to food allergies, which are characterized by skin manifestations; older children may suffer from drug allergies, hay fever or rashes caused by ultraviolet radiation (sun).

Among food products, the most allergenic are all types of citrus fruits, seafood, chocolate, cocoa, strawberries, and milk protein intolerance can also cause an allergic rash.

Causes of allergic rash in a child

According to children's allergists, the list of “provocateurs” of allergic rashes in children is led by food allergens, especially dairy products, sea fish, and eggs, that is, those that contain protein. These factors cause an indirect reaction in which antibodies of the IgE class immunoglobulins participate. Allergens of orange and red fruits and vegetables cause a direct release of histamine, without the attraction of IgE.

Acute allergic urticaria, provoked by airborne factors (household chemicals, pollen), most often occurs in children over 3 years of age and is a symptom of cross-polyvalent allergy.

Symptoms of an allergic rash in a child

The main signs of allergic rashes in children are as follows:

• Erythema (redness) of certain areas of the skin.
• There may be slight swelling at the site of the rash.
• Small papules - vesicles.
• Itching, sometimes very severe.
• Irritability, tearfulness.
• If the papules burst, erosive wounds filled with exudate may appear.
• For food allergies, localization is on the skin of the face (cheeks), buttocks, calves, and less often on the forearms.

Symptoms of an allergic rash in a child depend on the form of the underlying disease - allergies, which can be chronic or acute.

1. An acute form of allergy most often develops as a reaction to a food allergen or medication. An allergic rash looks like papules, less often large blisters, localized on the skin of the face and forearms. The blistering formations are colored pink, dim in color, and cause characteristic itching and irritation. The acute form of allergy manifests itself mainly on the upper half of the child’s body; the rash can also be located in large folds (inguinal). The child becomes capricious, begins to scratch the itchy skin, loses appetite, and sleeps poorly. Against the background of general irritability, vomiting and dyspeptic symptoms are possible.
2. If allergies show symptoms for a long time and the rash does not go away after 4-6 weeks, the rash is diagnosed as a chronic allergy rash. Its symptoms are similar to acute manifestations of allergies, however, they cause more aggravated manifestations from the nervous system - insomnia, nervousness, irritability, loss of body weight due to refusal of food.

Symptoms of an allergic rash can also manifest themselves in the form of angioedema (Quincke), which is considered the most dangerous and is characterized by the rapid development of the following symptoms:

• Tingling sensation in the tongue, lips or palate.
• Pain, colic or cramping in the abdominal area.
• Erythematous rash, usually on the face.
• The rash on the face quickly spreads and is accompanied by developing swelling.
• The eyelids and mucous membrane of the mouth swell literally before our eyes.
• Possible conjunctivitis.
• Swelling may spread (migrate) to the nasopharynx and cause difficulty breathing.
• The skin of the face acquires a characteristic bluish tint (cyanosis).
• Angioedema is a serious life-threatening symptom and requires immediate medical attention to avoid serious complications.

Allergic rash in an infant

The most common symptom of food allergy in formula-fed newborns is urticaria, often called diathesis. In fact, there is no diagnosis of diathesis; this word means a predisposition, a tendency to any disease. An allergic rash in an infant is a variant of transient, non-pathological dermatitis, when the baby’s skin reacts to the invasion of an antigenic substance. There are three ways in which the allergen is introduced into the unprepared, unadapted body of the child:

• During feeding, there is a food allergen.
• During contact with skin - contact allergen.
• During breathing - aeroallergen (inhalation allergen) or respiratory tract.

Allergies in babies under one year of age are most often triggered by food factors. If the baby is breastfed, he may experience similar problems in cases where the mother does not follow a hypoallergenic diet. A child receiving artificial formula reacts to cow's milk protein, complementary feeding that is too early or poorly thought out from a nutritional point of view.

An allergic rash in an infant is currently an extremely common occurrence; according to statistics, up to 45% of babies under the age of one and a half years suffer from it. In the etiology of food allergies in newborns, hereditary factors play an important role:

• If mom and dad are allergic, the likelihood of their child having allergies is up to 65%.
• If one of the parents is allergic, the risk of developing an allergic reaction reaches 40%.

In addition, the cause of an allergic rash can also be intrauterine congenital pathology (hypoxia), diseases suffered by the mother during pregnancy

Physiologically, the allergic reaction is explained by the insufficient formation of the baby’s digestive tract and the low activity of the production of protective antibodies - Ig A. Thus, local protection of the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract with the help of immune antibodies is practically absent, and allergic substances quite easily penetrate the bloodstream, overcoming the intestinal barrier.

How does an allergic rash manifest in an infant?

The child’s skin is the first to react to an allergen:

• Redness of the cheeks, less often the forehead or neck.
• Diffuse or localized rash, often starting on the face. The rash may migrate to the forearms, buttocks and calves.
• Roughness, peeling of facial skin.
• Constant diaper rash not associated with objective hygienic reasons.

The most serious and threatening manifestation of allergies in a baby is angioedema or Quincke's edema, which develops very quickly and requires immediate action to relieve it. Signs of angioedema in newborns are very specific:

• The child suddenly begins to be capricious and cry.
• Small papules (rash) appear on the skin of the face.
• The baby's voice becomes hoarse and intermittent.
• Shortness of breath appears, and breathing may be interrupted.
• The child quickly develops swelling of the larynx.
• The face turns a characteristic bluish tint (cyanosis), then suddenly turns pale.

At the slightest alarming symptoms that a caring mother notices in her baby, you need to consult a doctor. The choice of diagnostic method and therapeutic action is the prerogative of the treating pediatrician or allergist; parents are required to strictly follow medical recommendations.

What can be done to ensure that an allergic rash in an infant goes away and does not recur?

• The introduction of complementary foods must be agreed upon with a pediatrician or nutritionist, especially if there is a risk of developing allergies due to a hereditary factor.
• The first complementary food should be hypoallergenic, even for those babies who have not previously shown allergy symptoms.
• Whole cow's milk, eggs and dishes containing them, wheat cereals, citrus fruits, nuts are those foods that are best not given to a child under one and a half years old.
• A breastfeeding mother must follow a special hypoallergenic diet.
• A baby who experiences periodic constipation may react to bowel retention with an allergic rash. Therefore, it is necessary to regulate the timely emptying of the digestive tract in a child.
• For hygienic purposes and baby skin care, it is necessary to use only hypoallergenic, special cosmetics that do not contain perfumes, flavors, or dyes.
• Allergic contact rash can be caused by chlorinated bathing water, so it is better to bathe your baby in dechlorinated or boiled water at the right temperature.
• Allergies can be caused by clothing and bedding made from synthetic materials; this factor should be excluded.
• Heat allergies can be triggered by overheating and wearing too warm clothes. The baby should not be overly wrapped up, since the body temperature of newborns is higher than the normal temperature of an adult, and heat exchange mechanisms are arranged differently.
• It is necessary to exclude or minimize the child’s contact with pets, to whose fur an allergy in the form of a rash may develop.

An allergic rash in an infant is usually a transient phenomenon. The baby is growing, and all metabolic and protective functions of the digestive tract, liver, and immune system are also developing and improving. With age, almost all symptoms of food allergies disappear if antiallergic measures were carried out in a timely manner and in full. According to statistics, only 1-1.5% of children remain allergic in adulthood, most of them have a hereditary predisposition to allergies.

Diagnosis of an allergic rash in a child

The main clinical sign that makes it possible to differentiate an allergic rash from infectious rashes is the relatively normal general condition of the baby. With all nervous manifestations - whims, irritability associated with itchy skin, the child's appetite remains at the same level, body temperature, as a rule, does not increase.

Diagnosis of an allergic rash in a child involves the following actions:

• Collecting a thorough medical history, including allergic and family history, to exclude a possible hereditary factor.
• To confirm allergic urticaria, it is necessary to exclude other allergic, infectious, inflammatory diseases, which also have a relationship with IgE immunoglobulin.
• A detailed analysis of the route of penetration of the allergen is carried out, all possible causes are clarified, including household and contact factors.
• Elimination of the suspected allergic factor is carried out as a diagnostic and at the same time therapeutic measure. If there is information about provocative food, all dishes containing the allergen are excluded, if a contact route of allergy development is suspected, dust, wool, synthetic detergents, cosmetics, and linen are eliminated.
• If the disease occurs in an acute form, diagnosis of an allergic rash in a child involves laboratory blood tests to determine IgE in the blood serum.
• After the symptoms subside, usually after 1.5-2 months, it is possible to conduct skin tests and tests (scarification tests, prick tests, patch tests) in order to more accurately determine the nature of sensitization and identify the allergen.
• A sign of an allergic rash and urticaria in a diagnostic sense are an increased level of T-lymphocytes, CIC (circulating immune complexes), a decrease in IgA titers, and an increase in interleukin.

Diagnosis of allergic skin rashes in children is carried out taking into account all the characteristics of the health condition, the collected medical history and clinical symptoms of the disease.

Treatment of allergic rash in a child

Therapeutic actions against allergic rashes are a standard treatment regimen for allergies, including food, contact or drug allergies.

1. Immediate elimination of the suspected provoking factor. Food liberators (provocateurs) of histamine can be dairy products, eggs, fruits or vegetables, as well as foods containing vasoactive amines - sausages and other sausages, liver (pork), herring, tomatoes, hard cheese, smoked meats and fermented foods.
2. Antihistamines for the treatment of rashes should be recommended and prescribed by a pediatrician. As a rule, H1 blockers are prescribed in a dosage and form appropriate to the child's age. If symptoms develop quickly and become dangerous (Quincke's edema), the doctor may use glucocorticosteroids.
3. Fenistil gel (used from 2 months), Bepanten, which softens the skin and relieves itching, or a simple baby cream are suitable as an emergency treatment for a baby that does not require a prescription. Infusions and decoctions of medicinal herbs should be used only on the advice of a pediatrician, since many herbal remedies are allergens.
4. A mandatory step in the treatment of an allergic rash is a diet that excludes provoking foods. A hypoallergenic diet should be followed for 3 months even when symptoms subside. Further, products from the risk group are included in the menu with maximum caution in microdoses, so as not to provoke a relapse of the allergic rash.

In the room where the child is located, a certain sanitary and hygienic regime must be observed:

• repeated wet cleaning,
• ventilation,
• daily change of linen, clothes,
• It is necessary to exclude all provoking agents from the category of household chemicals.

Treatment of an allergic rash in a child requires long-term observation by the attending physician or allergist. Dispensary registration is not necessary, but monitoring of the baby’s condition is carried out for six months after the first allergic manifestations have stopped.

Prevention of allergic rashes in children

Preventive measures to prevent allergies in children, as pediatricians aptly put it, should begin a year, or preferably two, before the birth of the child. This means that the expectant mother, as well as the father, must monitor their health so that their baby is born healthy and does not suffer from allergies.

A pregnant woman should remember to follow a hypoallergenic diet and the possible risks when taking various medications.

• A nursing mother is the first potential source of a food allergy in a baby; even a minimal dose of a food liberator (allergy trigger) eaten by the mother will cause a reaction in the infant. Nuts, chocolate, seafood, citrus fruits, eggs, smoked meats and canned foods may be tasty, but they are also the main culprits of food allergies and rashes in breastfed babies.
• Children who exhibit milk protein intolerance should receive hypoallergenic formula and adhere to a diet until they are 2 and sometimes even 3 years old.
• Children with a family history of allergies should receive complementary feeding according to a special, individual scheme that takes into account all possible risks.
• If an allergic rash appears and it was managed in time, to exclude relapses, parents should keep a special food diary. These records note the slightest alarming reactions to food or new complementary foods. Thus, the diary is an opportunity to warn in time or stop the development of allergies.
• A child prone to allergic rashes should not come into contact with animal hair or inhaled allergens - pollen, aerosols, household dust.
• The vaccination schedule for a child with allergies differs from the vaccination schedule for a healthy child. Vaccinations should be carried out taking into account allergic history.
• The child's clothing and underwear should be made from natural materials. It is also necessary to exclude toys made from latex, plastics without the “hypoallergenic” mark, and so on from the baby’s environment.

Prevention of an allergic rash in a child means following medical recommendations and using only pharmaceutical drugs, both internal and external. Self-medication and experiments with treating an allergic rash in a baby can lead to serious complications.