Red spots on baby's skin are common. This condition is generally harmless and goes away on its own. The handling steps are also fairly easy and can be done independently at home according to the condition of the red spots or rash experienced by the baby.
Babies generally have sensitive skin so they are prone to irritation and other skin problems, including red spots. The appearance of red spots on baby's skin can be caused by various things, ranging from hot temperatures, allergic reactions, exposure to chemicals, to viral or bacterial infections.
Some Types and Causes of Red Spots on Baby's Skin
Red spots on the baby's skin can appear in various parts of the body. The following are some of the types and causes of red spots that are commonly experienced by babies:
1. Eczema
Eczema can cause a baby's skin to become itchy, dry, red, and cracked. This condition is usually caused by sensitive skin or allergies. Generally, eczema appears in areas of skin folds, such as behind the knees, elbow creases, neck folds, and the area around the eyes and ears.
To treat eczema, keep your little one away from extreme temperatures or anything that can cause skin irritation. Bathe the baby once every 2-3 days, then dry the skin by patting it gently.
Next, apply an ointment or cream prescribed by a doctor and avoid using fragrances or fabric softeners when washing baby clothes. If eczema does not improve, contact your doctor immediately for further treatment.
2. Diaper Rash
Diaper rash on baby's skin is caused by a yeast infection candida. This condition can occur when the baby's skin is moist, because it has been exposed to urine or feces in a diaper for too long.
To treat diaper rash, you must change your baby's diaper regularly and apply a special cream or ointment before putting on a diaper.
3. Disease hands, feet and mouth (coxsackie)
Hand, foot and mouth disease is caused by a viral infection that is transmitted through coughing, sneezing, or used diapers. This disease is characterized by fever, loss of appetite, sore throat, mouth sores, and a rash that doesn't itch. The rash occurs on the hands, feet, and sometimes on the buttocks and legs.
This disease can heal by itself within one week. To prevent the spread of hand, foot and mouth disease, make it a habit to wash your hands before you touch or play with your little one.
4. Hives
Hives or urticaria is an itchy rash on the skin that appears as an allergic reaction to certain objects or substances, such as food, drugs, insect stings, and cold or hot temperatures.
These red spots on the baby's skin are not contagious and will usually disappear after a few days. Hives can also be a sign of a serious allergic reaction or anaphylaxis, if accompanied by shortness of breath or facial swelling. Therefore, if hives do not heal within a few days, immediately consult a doctor.
5. Impetigo
Impetigo is a skin infection caused by bacteria. Impetigo is characterized by sores or lumps that can rupture, leaving a thick, yellow-brown crust. These sores or blisters are itchy and can spread to other parts of the body.
Impetigo often appears around the mouth or nose, but it is possible to spread to the face, hands, or the middle of the baby's body. This disease can be transmitted through direct contact or through intermediary objects. Impetigo can be treated with antibiotic creams, ointments, or tablets.
6. Milia
Many babies are born with milia, which are spots that appear on the nose, chin, eyelids, or cheeks. Milia are caused by clogged pores with keratin, a type of protein produced by the skin.
Usually, milia will go away on their own within a few weeks. To treat milia, gently wash your little one's face at least once a day with water and special baby soap.
7. prickly heat
This condition usually occurs when the weather is hot and humid, and the baby's clothes are too thick. Prickly heat looks like small red, itchy pimples and can appear on the baby's head, neck, shoulders, arms, or legs.
To deal with prickly heat, move your little one to a cooler room or take a cold shower. In addition, wear clothes that are light and not layered.
8. Ringworm
Ringworm is a skin disease caused by a fungal infection, which causes the skin to appear red, ring-shaped, inflamed, and itchy. This condition usually appears on the head, legs, or groin.
Ringworm is transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact or using the same object interchangeably. This condition is harmless and can be treated by applying an antifungal cream.
9. Slapped cheek syndrome
This disease is a viral infection that causes fever and a bright red rash on both cheeks, which resembles a slap on the cheek.
Slapped cheek syndrome cause itching and the risk of spreading to other parts of the body when your little one has a cold. This condition can heal on its own within a week.
10. Meningitis
Red spots on baby's skin are generally harmless. However, there is one condition that you should be aware of, namely meningitis. Meningitis is inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This disease can be caused by a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection.
There are several symptoms of meningitis in infants, including high fever, more fussiness, refusal to breastfeed or loss of appetite, looking lethargic, vomiting, and the crown looks swollen.
If your child has symptoms of meningitis as mentioned above, immediately consult a doctor. This condition can be fatal for the baby, if not treated immediately. Delayed treatment of meningitis can increase the risk of brain damage or even death.
Some rashes or red spots on the baby's skin are not dangerous conditions. However, you are advised to check any changes that occur in the baby's skin to the doctor so that the appropriate examination and treatment can be carried out.