Widespread Rashes with Unknown Cause

Symptom Definition

Rash over most of the body (widespread or generalized) (Occasionally just on hands, feet and buttocks – but both sides of body)
Red or pink rash
Small spots or large spots
Main Cause: viral exanthem, a 2 or 3 day rash occurring with a viral illness.
Common Causes: 6 rashes that you may be able to recognize are listed below.If not, use this guideline

See More Appropriate Topic

Chickenpox
Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease
Hives
Insect Bites (especially if itchy)
Sunburn
Measles vaccine rash: Fine pink rash occurring 7-10 days after measles vaccine, see Immunization Reactions

Call 911 Now (your child may need an ambulance) If

Purple or blood-colored rash with fever
Sudden onset of rash (within 2 hours) and also has difficulty with breathing or swallowing
Too weak or sick to stand

Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If

Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9 and 4) If

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