Fifth Disease vs. Hives

Since I have been doing a lot of research about the difference between Fifths Disease and just plain old hives, I thought that I would share some of my findings. There is a difference, and it is frustrating to not know what is going on with your kid's skin. There were so many times Brady's rashes have been diagnosed as "contact dermatitis" which is just the fancy term for "rash". This time, it was something different.

Fifth Disease

Fifth disease begins with a low-grade fever, headache, and mild cold-like symptoms (a stuffy or runny nose). These symptoms pass, and the illness seems to be gone until a rash appears a few days later. The bright red rash typically begins on the face, which is why Fifth disease is also known as "Slapped Cheek Syndrome". Several days later, the rash spreads and red blotches (usually lighter in color) extend down to the trunk, arms, and legs. The rash usually spares the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. As the centers of the blotches begin to clear, the rash takes on a lacy net-like appearance. Kids younger than 10 years old are most likely to get the rash.

There is a common misconception about Fifth disease and pregnancy. Generally, most pregnant women experience no serious complications if they are exposed to the parvovirus B19. In fact, about half of all women are already immune to the virus (although they may not know it) due to a previous exposure. Those women who do get sick usually experience only mild symptoms with no ill effects on their baby. It is good to get tested, however, if you know that you have been exposed.

Hives

Illnesses are the most common cause of hives in children. The body can have an allergic reaction to the illness. These illnesses are usually viruses, but can be any cause. Most cases do not need to be evaluated by a doctor. The typical parent comment is, "his rash looks terrible but he seems fine. "If, however, your child is having trouble breathing or acting progressively sicker, seek medical attention.

Because this is an allergic reaction, you need to observe your child for other signs of a severe allergic reaction such as throat tightness, wheezing, breathing difficulty, extreme weakness or lightheadedness, significantly pale, or persistent vomiting. Go to the ER if these happen. When to call your doctor's office for an immediate appointment: If none of the above signs of a severe allergic reaction occur, but your child has swelling of the hands, feet, or face, or the hives are all over the body, and they don't improve within 2 hours after Benadryl, see your doctor right away. If it's the weekend or after hours, go to the ER.

Brady did just have hives as an allergic reaction to a virus, and he is back at school and daycare as of today. All is well!