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Skin rashes: Types, Symptoms, Treatments, & More

Publisher/Author : Pacific Cross

This post is also available in: Tiếng Việt (Vietnamese)

Skin rashes are patches or spots that change color, usually into red. In general, rashes appear when allergic dermatitis or an infection occurs. Skin rashes are often acute and will go away after a week. Symptoms that accompany rashes include itchiness and blisters.

Know the basics

What are skin rashes?

Rashes are abnormal spots that appear when dermatitis occurs. There are many types of rashes, including:

  • Eczema
  • Chicken pox
  • Herpes
  • Heat rash
  • Diaper rash
  • Lyme disease
  • Hives

Know the symptoms

What are the symptoms of skin rashes?

The common symptoms of skin rash are:

  • Itchiness
  • Thick and leathery skin caused by scratching, dry and scaly or crusted skin area
  • Leakable fluid-filled blisters
  • Inflamed skin due to infection

There may be some symptoms not listed above. If you have any concerns about a symptom, please consult your doctor.

When should I see my doctor?

You should contact your doctor if you have any of the following:

  • If you rash get worse
  • If you are experiencing additional symptoms Ex: bleeding blisters, swelling, skin peeling, fever, body aching, joint pain etc.
  • If the rash is painful
  • If there are large, fluid-filled blisters near the rash
  • If the rash prevent you from completing daily activities or sleep

If you have any signs or symptoms listed above or have any questions, please consult your doctor. Everyone’s body acts differently. It is always best to discuss with your doctor what is best for your situation.

Know the cause

What causes skin rashes?

Common causes of skin rashes include:

  • Allergies
  • Insect bites
  • Food poisoning
  • Stress
  • Reaction to chemicals
  • Fungal infection
  • Illness, such as chicken pox or shingles
  • Side effects of medications

Know the risk factors

How common are skin rashes?

This health condition is common. Females are more susceptible to this skin condition. It can affect patients of any age. However, it can be managed by reducing your risk factors. Please discuss with your doctor for further information.

What increases my risk for skin rashes?

Any history of allergies or asthma increases the risk for rashes. Also spending time outside can increase the chance of getting rashes from poisonous plants and insects.

Understand the diagnosis & treatment

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. ALWAYS consult with your doctor for more information.

How are skin rashes diagnosed?

Skin rash can be easily identified by diagnosing the outer layer of the skin. Dermatologist will determine the kind of rashes base on the configuration , density, color, size, tenderness, and the distribution of the rash on the body.

How is skin rash treated?

Most rashes are not serious diseases and will cure themselves. Focus on treating symptoms for normal rashes. Professional medication is required for curing more severe or quickly-advancing rashes.

Patients can also implore over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Seek your doctor advice before taking these drugs and adhere the prescription. Extend dosage or period on your own can incur unfavorable side effects. These drugs are discouraged for patients with a history of stomach and liver diseases.

Lifestyle changes & home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can help me manage skin rashes?

The following lifestyles and home remedies might help you cope with skin rashes:

  • Avoiding contact with any allergy triggers
  • Cooling down the rash
  • Soaking the rash in colloidal oatmeal with lukewarm water
  • Adding anti-itch cream such as hydrocortisone or calamine lotion
  • Wearing comfortable clothes

Skin rashes are very common, especially with allergies. The condition may go away on its own after a few days to a week once the triggers are removed.

Besides, some viral conditions such as measles, rubella, or chickenpox can cause skin rashes as well. When you have any skin condition, it’s best to consult with a dermatologist to get the best diagnosis and treatment.


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