Rashes

A skin rash is not a specific diagnosis, but rather a broad term that describes an area of skin that is inflamed and oftentimes displays an outbreak of red marks.

Rashes fall into three categories – rashes caused by fungus or bacteria; common, non-infectious rashes; and viral rashes. Some of the most common rashes include eczema, heat rash and poison ivy. Symptoms of skin rashes include:

  • Blister development
  • Scaling of the skin
  • Ulcerated open sores on the skin
  • Skin discoloration
  • Bumps on the skin
  • Itching

Causes of Rashes

A number of different conditions may cause skin rashes to occur in both children and adults, including:

  • Eczema, especially in children.
  • Contact dermatitis, where the skin reacts to a specific substance.
  • Diaper rash
  • Stasis dermatitis, associated with swelling and poor circulation.
  • Psoriasis
  • Nummular eczema, which is associated with extremely dry winter skin.
  • Localized viruses
  • Hives, extremely itchy raised bumps that develop quickly and are often a sign of an allergy
  • Heat rash, due to blocked sweat glands.

Treatment for Rashes

Midwest Dermatology treats skin rashes based on their symptoms, their severity and where they are occurring on the body.

Treatments are tailored to your medical history and your lifestyle, and may include:

  • Removing the irritant from your environment. For example, changing the cleaning solution you use at home.
  • Changing your external environment. For example, avoiding extreme cold or heat.
  • Eliminating exposure to a type of bacteria or fungus, like the fungus found in a gym or locker room.
  • Soothing the symptoms with non-prescription medicine.
  • Anti-itch medicines containing hydrocortisone.
  •  Moisturizers.
  • Oral antihistamines, which can also help with itching.

From the time they first appear, most skin rashes usually go away in a few days. If they do not go away, you should contact Midwest Dermatology to have your rash examined.

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