Rashes

Most rashes are not considered significantly serious. That said, if you have a persistent rash that worsens or coincides with other symptoms aside from itching and irritation, it is wise to seek medical attention. Some of the signs that a rash could indicate a more serious condition include:

• A widespread rash on most of your body. This could indicate a systemic allergic reaction or infection that requires treatment. 
• Fever with the rash. This, too, could be indicative of an allergic reaction or infection such as shingles, mononucleosis, or measles. 
• The rapid spread of the rash. This may indicate an allergic reaction to some type of medication. 
• Your rash starts to blister. Blistering may occur due to systemic reaction or other conditions, such as shingles. 
• Your rash oozes and hurts. Oozing, pain, crusting of the skin, and skin that is warm to the touch all signal that your rash may be infected.

Shingles is a relatively common condition that comes with a telltale rash. That said, there do happen to be a few other types of rashes that can resemble shingles. These include:

• Contact dermatitis. This rash is caused by contact with an allergen such as a chemical, metal, or latex.
• Impetigo. This is an infection that occurs as a result of bacteria on the skin. 
• Candida dermatitis herpetiformis. We most commonly see this rash in people with celiac disease.
• Insect bites. Some bites may look like shingles.
• Scabies. This condition is caused by mites.
• Folliculitis. What may look like shingles could be inflammation in the pores of the skin.

While some other conditions may look like shingles, your dermatologist can usually differentiate between them. Shingles is a condition known not only for its rash but for the unilateral pain, burning, stinging, and itching that occurs on only one side of the body. It may also bring a fever, chills, and nausea. 

Contact dermatitis is the result of contact with a chemical or substance to which the patient is highly allergic. The rash tends to ooze and only affects parts of the skin that have come in direct contact with the irritating substance. Contact dermatitis tends to be very itchy. Common examples are poison ivy and oak, certain soaps, cosmetics, jewelry, perfumes, and colognes.

Treatment generally consists of managing the redness and swelling. Applying over the counter creams that contain hydrocortisone and wet dressing can help relieve the itching. In some cases, we may prescribe higher strength creams or oral medications such as antihistamines to relieve the itching. It can take anywhere from two to four weeks for your rash to clear up.

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that produces inflamed red papules that cause large patches of thickened, scaling skin. Some people experience only mild patches, while others experience their entire body covered in red, scaly skin.

Psoriasis is not curable but can go through long periods of remission. People are generally diagnosed with it in their early adult years. Psoriasis has been linked to diabetes and heart disease. There is currently no known cause; it seems to be a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors.

Treatment depends largely on the severity of the disease. Mild cases can often be managed with a combination of ointments, sprays, and steroid shots. More severe instances can require ultraviolet light treatment or total body treatments such as pills or injections.

Lichen Planus leaves patients with shiny, flat bumps usually found on the inside of the wrists, and ankles, legs, back, or neck. It can also cause hair loss when it occurs on the scalp. It is not contagious but can be a result of medications used to treat high blood pressures, heart disease, and arthritis.

Our team can diagnose lichen planus with a visual skin examination and, in some cases, a skin biopsy. Treatment includes managing the symptoms through antihistamines and medicated creams. Steroid injections and prednisone may be necessary in severe cases.

Atopic dermatitis, which is also known as eczema, is a chronic condition that can occur as inflamed, itchy red skin. Patches may appear on any area of the body and can flare up at any time. It is important for patients to determine the cause of flare-ups to avoid these soaps, lotions, and creams that may be increasing the symptoms and causing the patient pain and discomfort.

This skin condition, often referred to as a “Christmas Tree Rash,” starts with a herald patch that may occur somewhere on the trunk of the body. Then, the rash spreads and may form the shape of a Christmas tree. It is unknown what causes this rash, but it will go away on its own within months. Patients who are experiencing itchiness may benefit from over-the-counter or medicated lotions for relief.

Heat rash, or miliaria, is caused by the blockage of sweat through the skin. This may be a result of tight clothing, humid weather, or overdressing. Small clusters of red bumps may form and sting or feel prickly. There is no treatment for heat rash except for avoidance of excessive humidity and heat and by wearing lightweight clothing to allow the skin to breathe.

If you have a general rash, not a condition like shingles, psoriasis, or eczema, your skin will likely return to normal within two to three weeks of your rash appearing. During that time, it is important to avoid exposure to any known allergens or irritants. You may apply a topical moisturizer or ointment to soothe the irritation and speed up the healing process. If, during the few weeks of having a rash, the condition gets worse, schedule an appointment with us! A prompt examination of irritated skin can help you avoid unwanted and unnecessary stress.