Most of us have had a skin rash at one time or another – a patch of itchy, irritated skin that pops up after a long hike or too much sun exposure. As such, most of us know exactly how inconvenient, frustrating, and uncomfortable rashes can be. There are a range of causes that may lead to a rash, including sunburns, itchy clothing, irritants such as chemicals or poison ivy, or diseases such as chickenpox, Lyme disease and more. People with sensitive skin may be particularly prone to rashes, and may experience several rashes over the course of a short period, or when exposed to known triggers.
Skin Rashes
Rashes are outbreaks of irritated skin that often appear red, bumpy, itchy or scaly. You should see a dermatologist for a rash that is painful, lasts for a prolonged period of time or is one of many symptoms you’re dealing with and we will help you figure out a cause and determine the correct treatment.
What Causes Rashes?
Symptoms of Rashes
Rather than referring to a specific skin condition, the term “rash” refers to a variety of skin eruptions and irritations. As such, the symptoms of rashes will vary, depending on what type of rash you’re experiencing. Bacterial or fungal rashes, for example, will produce different symptoms than rashes caused by environmental irritants, like poison plants. That said, there are a few common symptoms of rashes, including the following:
- Redness
- Scaling or dry skin
- Bumps
- Itching
Treatment Options for Rashes
Since most rashes aren’t serious, extensive treatment is not usually necessary. Most rashes disappear on their own with time, but there are a few treatment options available to help you decrease the discomfort associated with a rash. These include the following:
- Topical anti-itch creams that contain ingredients like hydrocortisone
- Moisturizers
- Topical antifungal cream
- Oral antihistamines
- Light therapy
- And more
To learn more about the treatment options available to you,
contact your dermatologist to schedule an appointment.
Schedule My Appointment
