Children’s skin can be delicate, and prone to various conditions that may cause discomfort. Skin conditions can arise out of nowhere and can become troublesome. From dryness and itchiness to full-blown rashes, there are many types of paeditaric skin concerns. While there is no shortage of potential culprits, ranging from genetics and allergies all the way through to environmental exposure, identifying what ails your children can be difficult. Our doctors have been practising in Singapore for many years and our general practitioner clinic has doctors who have experience in the variety of skin conditions in children. We have a specific children’s doctor and our GPs have cared for many newborns and young children with concerning skin issues.
1. Eczema
Eczema is a chronic skin condition that can cause acute discomfort for your child. It is prevalent in Singapore, with 1 out of 5 school-going children suffering from it, according to a report in 2019. Eczema is characterised by dry, itchy, red, and inflamed skin. Its severity and presentation may vary depending on the age of your child. In infants and babies, eczema commonly affects the scalp and face, particularly the cheeks and in severe cases, eczema may also affect the limbs and trunk. In toddlers and adolescents, eczema commonly affects areas with folds, such as the neck, elbows, wrists, ankles, and behind the knees.
As a parent, you can help your child manage eczema by taking several steps. One crucial measure is to keep your child’s skin moisturised, particularly in the areas that tend to become dry, such as the elbows, knees, and hands. Avoid using harsh soaps and detergents that can irritate the skin. Make sure your child does not have long showers or baths with hot water, as this can further dry out the skin. Keep your child’s nails short and clean to avoid infection, and monitor how often they scratch themselves. Using natural breathable fabrics instead of manmade ones can also help manage eczema. Furthermore, getting rid of house dust mites that may trigger your child’s eczema can make a significant difference. Finally, topical creams and medication prescribed by a doctor can help reduce inflammation and relieve eczema symptoms. Eczema can be very uncomfortable, if your child is suffering please come and see a doctor.
2. Hives
Hives, or urticaria, is a common and unwelcome skin condition for many children – characterised by raised red bumps that areintensely itchy. While the most likely causes are allergic reactions or infections, parents should take an active role in finding out what triggered it and removing any potential irritants from their child’s environment such as food items or medication known to provoke allergies. Reassuringly, antihistamines prescribed by your doctor can provide relief for your child by protecting against inflammation while reducing unpleasant symptoms like itchiness.
3. Viral Rash
A viral rash is an uncomfortable consequence of a virus, such as the common cold or flu. This skin condition appears on your child’s skin and can be itchy, but generally isn’t serious. Parents should help their child by using soothing lotions like calamine to alleviate itching and antihistamines for symptomatic relief. For severe cases though, you may need to consult with a doctor who could look into prescribing antiviral medicine if needed.
4. Heat Rash
Heat rash, or prickly heat, is a common skin condition for children in hot climates like Singapore! It occurs due to sweating and blockage of the sweat glands. It may also happen if the child is overdressed. A heat rash appears as small, red, itchy bumps in body creases or on areas of the skin that are exposed to frequent contact with clothing such as the neck, back, chest and diaper area. To ease their child’s discomfort, parents can aim to keep their skin cool and dry by avoiding tight clothing, removing excess clothing, using a cool compress and moving your little one into an air-conditioned environment while also applying calamine lotion if itching occurs.
Safeguard your child’s health with Osler Health
If your child is suffering from any type of skin condition, please seek professional care. Osler Health offers children’s health services such as health screenings for children with experienced doctors and general physicians who have been practising in Singapore for many years. We care for children each day in the clinics. Contact us today for more information on how we can help or make an appointment online today to provide the best possible care for your child.
