What causes red spots on a baby's face after a fever, and what should be done?

Jan 24, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
After a baby develops a fever, red spots on the face may be related to factors such as skin overheating, emotional disturbances, infantile急疹 (sudden rash in infants), rubella, or measles. Treatment should be based on the underlying cause, such as keeping the skin dry and cool, stabilizing emotions, using antiviral medications, or administering heat-clearing and detoxifying drugs. At the same time, the infant's living environment should be improved promptly to alleviate discomfort symptoms.

Generally speaking, fever refers to elevated body temperature. After a fever, red spots appearing on an infant's face may be related to factors such as heat-induced skin irritation, emotional changes, infantile急疹 (sudden rash), rubella, measles, and others. Treatment can be administered according to the underlying cause, such as general care or medication. If symptoms persist for a prolonged period, timely medical attention is necessary. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Heat-induced skin irritation

Infants have delicate skin, which may suddenly become red and develop spots after exposure to heat stimulation. Promptly wiping the skin with lukewarm water helps maintain local dryness and cleanliness. Changing into loose, breathable clothing promptly can also help reduce skin irritation.

2. Emotional changes

When infants develop a fever, emotional disturbances and prolonged crying may cause facial capillaries to dilate and become congested, resulting in red spots on the face. These symptoms usually subside gradually as the infant's emotions stabilize and typically require no special treatment.

3. Infantile急疹 (Sudden Rash)

Infantile急疹 is a disease caused by infection with human herpesvirus 6. Repeated viral stimulation may lead to acute fever and sudden appearance of red spots on the skin. It is usually accompanied by symptoms such as coughing and runny nose. Prompt medical treatment may include medications such as Acyclovir for injection, Paracetamol oral solution, and Pediatric Chiropractic Heat-clearing Granules, following a physician's instructions.

4. Rubella

Rubella is an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by the rubella virus and mainly spreads through droplets. After an infant contracts rubella, the virus may stimulate the body, causing persistent fever and possibly red spots on the skin. It is commonly accompanied by symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes and joint pain. Treatment under a physician's guidance may involve medications such as Ribavirin Granules, Isatis Root Granules, and Calamine Lotion.

5. Measles

Measles is an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by the measles virus and is contagious. If the virus is not promptly eliminated within the body, it may stimulate the skin, causing skin warmth and red spots. Symptoms may also include skin itching and pain. Treatment, as advised by a physician, may involve medications such as Ganciclovir Injection, Ibuprofen Suspension Drops, and Amoxicillin Clavulanate Potassium Granules.

It is recommended to promptly identify the cause of the infant's fever and red spots on the face, and treat accordingly, avoiding self-medication. Additionally, it is important to improve the infant's living environment promptly to prevent repeated heat exposure.