Roseola

After 5 days of fever and irritability, but no other symptoms, Charlotte's body finally gave another sign to allow a diagnosis.  Her fever improved yesterday and as I bathed her, I noticed a characteristic rash had appeared.  We took her to the doctor anyway as it was too late to cancel her follow up appointment, where she confirmed that the illness was roseola. (not Charlotte's actual skin pictured below)

Mayo Clinic's website described Charlotte as though she was the textbook case:

• Fever. Roseola typically starts with a sudden, high fever — often greater than 103 F (39.4 C). Some children may also have a slightly sore throat, runny nose or cough along with or preceding the fever. Your child may also develop swollen lymph nodes in his or her neck along with the fever. The fever lasts for three to five days.
• Rash. Once the fever subsides, a rash typically appears — but not always. The rash consists of many small pink spots or patches. These spots are generally flat, but some may be raised. There may be a white ring around some of the spots. The rash usually starts on the chest, back and abdomen and then spreads to the neck and arms. It may or may not reach the legs and face. The rash, which isn't itchy or uncomfortable, can last from several hours to several days before fading.

Other signs and symptoms of roseola may include:

• Fatigue
• Irritability in infants and children
• Mild diarrhea
• Decreased appetite
• Swollen eyelids

So, one common childhood viral illness down, so many to go!!  Thank goodness we don't have to worry about chickenpox.