I'm pregnant, DS has a temperature and a rash - when should I worry?

[TheProvincialLady]

My GP must be the only one in the country that still has an early closing day so I can't contact him.

DS has had a cold for a few days and yesterday took a turn for the worse with a cough that made him sick (phlegm, sorry TMI) and a temperature. Today he has started to get a rash on his chest and his temp is 38 under armpit (I didn't measure it yesterday).

I am 26 weeks pregnant. Do I need to worry about the rash? What signs should I be looking out for, both for him and for me? I'd appreciate it if anyone can advise because in my experience NHS direct will tell me to call an ambulance

[TheProvincialLady]

Oh yes, DS is just 2 by the way.

[NatalieJaneIsPregnantAgain]

TBH the rash is most likely to be a reaction to the temp. 38 isn't too high, but I take it you've given him Ibuprofen/calpol?

There seems to be a lot of viral infections going around at the moment.

If you are happy that the rash isn't anything sinister then just carry on with the Ibuprofen/calpol and make sure he is drinking plenty.

Hope he feels better soon.

[ajm200]

Get your local pharmacist to take a look. They can be very good.

DS is about the same age and gets a rash whenever he gets a temperature so the advice to lower his temperature is good.

[TheProvincialLady]

That's great thanks both, I will take your advice. I also wonder on reflection whether the rash is caused by all the vick's vaporub I have been putting on his chest

[ajm200]

Quite possible. It does make the skin warm so add that to a temperature and you might get a topical rash. The warmth is quite comforting but might be a bit much for such young skin.

Can you use karvol caps on a hankie nearby instead?

[TheProvincialLady]

Yes I will go and get some now and ask the pharmacist for more advice whilst I am at it.

[ajm200]

how did you get on?

[TheProvincialLady]

He thought it was a viral rash but to keep an eye on it. I suspect tonight may be the worst of it as DS temperature is higher even with the calpol. Poor mite, he is so cheerful with it! Thanks for asking

[ajm200]

Glad it isn't anything serious. Hope he's better soon.