4. OTC Relief (With Wisdom)
→ 1% hydrocortisone cream can calm inflammation—but use sparingly:
✓ Apply a pea-sized amount only to the affected patch
✓ Use for no more than 3 days in a row
✓ Never on broken skin or near eyes
→ Skip antihistamine creams—they often irritate sensitive skin.
Red Flags: When to Call the Doctor Before Your Appointment
Most rashes can wait—but these signs need prompt care:
🩺 Call today if you see:
→ Pus or honey-colored crust (sign of infection)
→ Swelling that closes the ear canal
→ Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
→ Red streaks spreading from the patch
🩺 Go to urgent care if:
→ Your child won’t stop crying from pain
→ The skin feels hot to the touch
→ Swelling affects their ability to hear or eat
Trust your gut: If something feels deeply wrong, call your doctor now. No parent should lose sleep wondering, “Did I wait too long?”
