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Symptom Checker

Rashes in Children

A rash is a change in the color, texture or appearance of the skin. Rashes may be flat, raised, bumpy, blistered, itchy, painful or spread over different parts of the body.

Viruses, bacterial infections, allergies, irritation, eczema, heat, medicines, insect bites and many other skin conditions can cause rashes in children.

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AAP Guide to Rashes in Children

The AAP guide below explains common types of rashes, warning signs, and when your child needs medical care.

AAP Symptom CheckerRashes

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Symptom CheckerRashes New tab

When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • The rash comes with fever or your child appears ill.
  • The rash is painful, blistering, rapidly spreading or becoming more swollen.
  • The skin is becoming increasingly red, warm or draining pus.
  • The rash persists or you are unsure what is causing it.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child has severe trouble breathing or swelling of the tongue or throat.
  • Your child develops purple or blood-colored spots and appears very ill.
  • Your child is very difficult to wake or has another life-threatening symptom.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on skin and rashes

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms