IT'S always scary when you see a rash emerge on your little one's body.
In many cases, a simple red mark is nothing to worry about.
But rashes can also be a sign something serious is going on which requires further investigation.
An Australian parenting education group Tiny Hearts has revealed what questions parents should ask themselves when they first see a rash.
1. Is it viral?
Many rashes are caused by viruses.
These marks often itch, sting, burn, or hurt but vary in appearance depending on the virus.
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While they can look alarming, these rashes usually aren’t a cause for concern, and they disappear once the infection clears up.
However, in some cases it can be worth reaching out to a healthcare professional.
The group have created a guide with photos to help give you peace of mind the next time a rash pops up.
2. Has it always been there?
If you believe your child had had this rash for some time, it could be an allergic reaction, like hives.
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Theses rashes usually raised and are caused by reaction to things like food, pollen, insect bites or chemicals.
You can usually treat hives with antihistamines from a pharmacy.
But if it does not get better, a GP may prescribe stronger antihistamines or steroids.
Chronic urticaria is long-term hives where the rash persists or comes and goes for more than 6 weeks, often over many years.
According to the NHS, the rash is usually benign, but may sometimes be a red flag sign of a serious internal disease such as lupus.
3. Is it hand, foot and mouth disease?
Hand, foot and mouth disease is a common viral infection.
It causes mouth ulcers and spots on the hands and feet, the group explained.
Though children aged 10 and under are more likely to catch it, it can affect older children and adults as well.
It usually gets better on its own in 7 to 10 days and don't need to be seen by a healthcare professional
It can cause small, oval white blisters on the soles of the feet hands and mouth – the trunk of the body is almost always clear of the rash.
The virus can also cause red skin with brown scales and blisters.
It can also leave your little one with a fever, sore throat, no appetite and lethargic.
4. Is it chickenpox?
Chickenpox is a common childhood illness – but you can get it at any age.
It causes a rash of red, itchy spots that turn into fluid-filled blisters.
The blisters, which can appear all over the body,crust over to form scabs, which eventually drop off.
The illness can cause a mild fever, tiredness and irritability.
If you suspect your child has chickenpox see a GP.
5. Is it meningococcal?
A meningococcal rash is caused by bleeding under the skin.
It can start as pink or reddish pinprick-sized lesions, and turns into more prominent purple bruise-like markings as the rash spreads.
When this sort of rash occurs, it's a sign of meningitis.
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If you press the side of a glass firmly against the skin where the rash is and it does not fade, it is a sign of blood poisoning and you should get medical help immediately.
If it is not treated quickly, meningitis can be life-threatening and result in permanent damage to the brain or nerves.
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