Medical Centric

SKIN RASH

Skin Conditions / By

SKIN RASH

A skin rash refers to any inflammation or discoloration that occurs on the skin and changes the skin’s normal appearance including its color and texture.

  • A rash may be localized in one part of the body, or it can cover and affect all the skin.
  • Rashes affect millions of people across the world; some rashes may need no treatment as they quickly resolve on their own, others may be treated at home, and some can be a cause for concern and may be signs of something more serious.
  • Rashes come in different form and texture, they can be dry, moist, smooth, cracked, blistered, and smooth, be painful, may itch and even change color.
  • Rashes may affect the buttocks, diaper area, face or neck, area where the skin folds, genital area, hands or feet, scalp, and the trunk.
  • They can be classified as either infectious or non-infectious.

CAUSES

There are different causes of skin rash including:

  • Infections – Bacteria, viruses, parasites, fungi.
  • Allergic reaction to certain food, medicines, insect stings, metals
  • Certain medications side effects
  • Autoimmune conditions such as lupus, psoriasis
  • Lead poisoning
  • Pregnancy in rare cases
  • Prolonged exposure to heat or sun
  • Poor personal hygiene
  • Friction due to chafing of the skin
  • Repeated scratching on a particular spot
  • Insect bite such as tick bite
  • Exposure to certain plants such as poison ivy
  • Anxiety
  • Certain conditions such as acne, boil, rosacea, cellulitis, hives, atopic dermatitis, irritant, and allergic contact dermatitis, cradle cap, measles, chicken pox, shingles, athlete’s foot, ringworm, syphilis, impetigo, scabies, jaundice, lipoma, scarlet fever etc.

SYMPTOMS

  • Red and inflamed area of skin that tends to be weepy or oozy.
  • Pus-filled, crusty swellings
  • Red or discolored bumps
  • Blisters
  • A slightly raised portion of the skin that may be painful or itchy
  • A red cluster of acne (heat rash)
  • Irregular, raised or flat red sores
  • Dry, scaly skin
  • Bald spot on the scalp
  • Light colored patches
  • Lots of white spots
  • A yellow area under the skin

You should seek medical attention if your rash is accompanied by any of the following:

  • Fever, dizziness, shortness of breath, vomiting or a stiff neck, this may be indicative of an infection
  • Blisters or open sores on the skin, mouth, or genitalia
  • A rash that has not improved with home care treatment
  • A rash that is painful and is all over the body, or spreading rapidly
  • Blue, red or purple dots appear in the affected area
  • A rash that is accompanied by other disturbing symptoms

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

Making diagnosis may be difficult as there are many causes of rash. An accurate diagnosis may include a review of the patient’s history (such as asking questions about your current medication, occupation, and recent locations), and a complete physical examination.

During the physical examination, the doctor will check the configuration of the rash such as if it is circular, ring-shaped, linear, or snake-like.

The characteristics of the rash are also noted including the density, color, size, consistency, tenderness, and even temperature.

The distribution of the rash is also noted.

TREATMENT

The treatment option is based on the underlying cause.

For rashes produced by fungal infections, OTC or prescribed anti-fungal cream and medications may be effective.

Anti-itch creams may be effective for itching.

Acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help with mild pain associated with skin rash

To help speed up healing processes, home remedies may help. This may include:

  • Using warm water to wash body and hair
  • Patting the rash dry instead of rigorously rubbing it
  • If it’s possible, avoid covering it with clothing
  • Avoid scratching the rash
  • Applying hydrocortisone cream to the affected area