A rash is defined by red eruptions that develop on the skin. Skin rashes can be categorized as patches of scaly skin with no infection, patches of scaly skin caused by bacterial or fungus infection, and itchy, red patches or bumps all over the skin. Although skin rashes are rarely life-threatening, seeking medical attention is advised. Common skin rashes can be identified by knowing the causes and symptoms and can therefore be treated.
Eczema
Eczema is a chronic non-contagious skin condition that is characterized by uncomfortable scaly skin, itchiness, oozing, blistering and redness. The causes of eczema include dry skin, constant rubbing, emotional stress, strong odors, irritating fabrics and even different types of soap. The National Eczema Association reports that eczema is more prominent in infants, accounting for 10 to 20 percent of all infants. Typically eczema will vanish after the first few years of life. Eczema is also prominent in the elderly due to the decrease of moisture in the outer layer of skin. There is no cure for eczema; however, relief from symptoms can be achieved with antihistamines and anti-inflammatory creams.
Atopic Dermatitis
As the most common form of eczema, atopic dermatitis is a hereditary skin problem that often begins in childhood as chapped cheeks and scaly patches on the scalp, arms, legs and torso and later affects hands, eyelids and genitals. The skin becomes itchy, inflamed, red, swollen and cracked. Although liquid may ooze out of the crusts, the area is often not infected. Atopic dermatitis is worse in the winter due to the cold and dryness of the air. Treatment involves minimizing irritation that is contributing to the problem and using prescription-strength steroids found in cortisone creams.
Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a rash that is brought on either by contact with a specific material that causes allergy on the skin or irritant to the skin. Only the skin area that contacts the material is affected. Allergic contact dermatitis is a delayed hypersensitivity reaction to certain materials or chemicals such as nickel in costume jewelry, rubber found in gloves and balloons, fragrances, poison oak and poison ivy. According to Cleveland Clinic Foundation, the appearance of the rash usually takes 12 to 72 hours from the time of exposure.
Irritant contact dermatitis is an inflammatory rash caused by direct chemical injury to the skin and can appear within just a few hours of exposure. Frequent washing of the hands and exposure to specific solvents are examples of possible causes for irritant contact dermatitis. Avoidance of the allergen or irritant that causes the rash along with topical steroids is an effective treatment.
Impetigo
Impetigo is the most common and highly contagious type of bacterial infection that affects the skin. It is caused by either the staphylococcus bacteria and usually occurs in children. Its symptoms include localized redness developing into blisters that gradually turn into crusts which erode after a while. Oral antibiotics or prescription-strength creams are effective for treatment.
Ring Worm
Ring worm is a skin rash that is caused by a fungus. Ring worm can affect different areas of the body. Tinea capitis is a ring worm that affects the scalp and can cause hair loss and flaking of the scalp much like dandruff. Ring worm that affects the feet and is accompanied by itchy patches and scaling skin is called athlete's foot. Ring worm that is located in the groin area is called jock itch. Ring worm that affects the whole body is called tinea corporis. The skin can be itchy and have one or more red circular lesions. Ring worm can be treated with over-the-counter anti-fungal ointments and creams.
Viral Rash
A viral skin rash can be caused by a viral infection either in a localized area, such as herpes or shingles, or all over the body such as with chicken pox and measles. This type of rash may or may not be accompanied by coughing, sneezing or nausea. A viral rash all over the body usually lasts a few days to a week and goes away on its own. Ointments and creams can be used to treat any itchiness that may occur.
Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition that causes redness in the face and produces small, red, pustules occurring mostly in adults. Although the exact cause is unknown, rosacea is triggered by sunlight, hot foods, strenuous exercise, hot baths, stress, anger and drugs that dilate blood vessels. Although there is no cure, the symptoms can be treated with oral and topical antibiotics prescribed by a doctor. Lifestyle changes such as limiting time in the sun will also help reduce signs and symptoms of rosacea.
Hives
Hives, or urticaria, is a common skin condition that appears as itchy pink to red welts anywhere on the body. Hives can be acute or chronic depending if they last less than six weeks or longer than six weeks respectively. Triggers for hives include medication, infections, environmental allergies, food allergies and stress. Taking cold showers, cold compresses, loose-fitting clothing, avoidance of strenuous activities and antihistamines are effective treatments for hives.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a skin disease that affects the life cycle of skin cells. Cells build up rapidly on the surface of the skin, forming painful thick silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches. While the exact cause is unclear, MayoClinic.com reports that the immune system, genetics and the environment play major roles. In addition, environmental and behavioral factors, such as cold weather and smoking, seem to be connected to the development of psoriasis. Topical steroids, photo therapy and oral medications such as methotrexate are examples of treatment for psoriasis.
Allergic Drug Rash
Most allergic drug rashes start within two or three weeks of taking a new medication. This particular rash can appear in any form including pink to red bumps, hives, blisters, red patches and/or pustules. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, diagnosing a rash caused by a reaction to medication is complicated and a physician may recommend stopping the drug in question to confirm. Antihistamines and corticosteroids may be prescribed to treat the rash.
