CHILDREN’S HEALTH MINUTE
Presented by the TexCare Partnership
60 Second Radio Feature   MP3

"Common Skin Problems in Kids”
FOR AIR WEEK OF March 17, 2003

Baby your baby’s skin -- it’s extra sensitive.

Hi, I’m Dr. John Hellerstedt with the Children’s Health Minute, presented by TexCare Partnership -- connecting Texas families with children’s health insurance for 18 dollars a month or less.

There are several skin conditions that are common during infancy and early childhood. Undeveloped sweat glands make babies prone to heat rash, a condition caused by a combination of hot weather and humidity. To avoid heat rash, dress your baby in loose clothing. Other babies break out in eczema, which causes red, irritated, scaly skin. This genetic condition is treatable with products your pediatrician can prescribe. Cradle cap is another common condition when a baby’s overactive glands cause crusty patches to form on the scalp. Gently wipe baby oil on the affected part of the scalp, then wash with baby shampoo. Finally, chafing can occur when there is friction between clothing and skin or where areas of skin rub together. Chafing is easily treatable with cornstarch baby power or lotion.

Presented by TexCare Partnership. Keep your kids healthy. Call 1-800-647-6558 to apply or when it’s time to renew your children’s health care coverage. That’s 1-800-647-6558.