Facial blisters have a variety of causes among toddlers. Even though the rashes are common among young children and might have minor causes such as excessive drooling, it might also be a viral or bacterial infection.
A toddler with facial blisters should be taken to a doctor for assessment as soon as possible since various infections that trigger blisters are highly contagious in nature.
Facial blisters due to chicken pox
Chicken pox is brought about by the varicella-zoster virus and defined by reddened bumps and blisters all over the body along with flu-like symptoms. The condition is not typically serious and settles on its own, but might develop into shingles later in life in rare instances.
Coxsackie
The coxsackie virus is responsible for causing hand, foot and mouth disease which is defined by sores and blisters on the feet and hands as well as inside the mouth. The condition results to fussiness, fever, drooling and discomfort on the affected sites.
As a virus, it could not be directly treated. Nevertheless, the discomfort can be reduced, and complications can be prevented by keeping the child properly hydrated and by providing age-appropriate pain medications.
Impetigo
If the blisters formed as clusters around the mouth and nose or crusted with brownish scabs or drains fluid, it might be impetigo. This is a bacterial infection caused by staphylococcus aureus or streptococcus pyogenes.
When to consult a doctor
A doctor must be consulted if the child develops blisters on his/her face. The doctor can identify the condition and manage it if it is a bacterial infection such as impetigo. In some cases, the child is monitored for any complications.
Seek prompt medical care if the child develops high fever of 103 degrees F or higher or starts to show signs of dehydration such as excessive thirst or pale lips.