Skin rashes commonly appear across the human population. They are generally in response to external triggers such as the environment. FamilyDoctor.org states that the location, appearance and hue of rashes helps in determining their cause while also appropriating the necessary treatment. Skin rashes often cause inflammation and exhibit dry, itchy skin or bumps. Anyone with a persistent rash or severe symptoms should immediately contact a health care professional.
Allergic Reactions
For individuals who harbor allergies, dermatitis, an inclusive term for rashes, is a regular occurrence. MedlinePlus reports that contact dermatitis begins when the skin directly interacts with an irritant such as detergent, soap or other chemicals. This causes the skin to inflame with associated itchiness, redness and swelling. In some people, hives will appear on the skin as swollen small, red bumps. The usual treatment includes antihistamine topical applications that reduce inflammation and itching associated with dermatitis. However, if allergies accompany exposure to poisonous plants such as oak or ivy, the rash requires the appropriate medical attention for treatment. Nonetheless, if a rash endures for a long period of time, contact a physician.
Fungus
Fungus may be the culprit behind certain skin rashes as it infects the skin, causing characteristic burning, itching and lesions. MedlinePlus says that the fungus tinea is responsible for the common fungal infections of ringworm, athlete's foot and jock itch. Ringworm, for example, appears as a scaly, raised and red patch located anywhere on the body. It has a distinctive ring formation that surrounds normal-looking skin while the outer portions often are lighter or darker in pigmentation. Those with ringworm in the scalp show bald spots where the fungal infection destroys healthy hair follicles, causing hair loss. Both athlete's foot and jock itch cause extreme itching and discomfort. Athlete's foot occurs between the toes where cracking, burning and redness proliferate in the moist area. Alternately, jock itch afflicts mainly males where the groin area and buttocks develop red, raised rashes. Using an over-the-counter antifungal cream usually eliminates tinea. For persistent infections, however, physicians may administer an oral antifungal.
Other Skin Conditions
Under certain circumstances, skin rashes are due to genetics in which people are born with skin ailments that may appear immediately or over time. Psoriasis, for example, occurs when the immune system attacks healthy skin cells. This causes the body to continuously produce more skin cells in a short period of time, which then accumulate on the surface. Itchy and sore patches of hardened skin appear with silver-colored scales, according to MedlinePlus. Psoriasis outbreaks usually necessitate an external trigger such as an infection, environmental changes or skin trauma. Alternately, other skin conditions including acne and eczema may require medical attention depending on the level of severity.
