Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Spanish version

CAUSES

The possible causes are many, such as:

Chickenpox

Dry Skin

Eczema

Heat Rash

Hives

Insect and Spider Bites

CALL YOUR CHILD'S PHYSICIAN IMMEDIATELY IF:

• Breathing or swallowing is difficult.
• The itching started immediately after your child took medicine or was stung by an insect.
• The itching keeps your child from sleeping.

CALL YOUR CHILD'S PHYSICIAN DURING OFFICE HOURS ABOUT:

• All other children with a widespread itchy rash.

HOME CARE

The following measures may help to relieve itching regardless of the cause:

• Wash the skin once with soap to remove irritants.
• Give your child cool baths every 3 to 4 hours unless your child has dry skin.
• Follow with calamine lotion (nonprescription) or a baking soda solution (1 teaspoon in 4 ounces of water). For very itchy spots, apply 1-percent hydrocortisone cream (no prescription needed) unless your child has chickenpox.
• Encourage your child not to scratch; cut your child's fingernails short.
• Your child should not wear itchy or tight clothes and should temporarily avoid excessive heat, sweating, soaps, and swimming pools.