Doctors can sometimes diagnose a red skin blotch by its appearance. At other times, blood tests, skin biopsies and a history of recent exposure to toxins may be required. Most simple rashes heal or disappear without medical intervention. A red skin blotch also may be the result of a birthmark or injury.
Features
A simple rash that causes a red skin blotch is called dermatitis according to Medline Plus. When the discoloration occurs as the result of a chemical or other toxin, it is referred to as contact dermatitis. If the skin becomes itchy or warm, it may be the result of contact with chemicals in cleaning fluids or dyes or chemicals used in your clothing. Other common toxins come from poison ivy or poison oak. Latex and other rubber products also can cause the skin to turn red when exposed.
Diseases
Common skin diseases that result in a red rash include eczema and psoriasis. Eczema also is called atopic dermatitis and often appears in people with asthma or other allergies. Psoriasis usually develops white scaly skin over the red skin blotch, according to Family Doctor and is caused by an overproduction of your skin cells. Childhood diseases such as measles, chicken pox, fifth disease and roseola also can cause red skin blotches. Additionally, impetigo, also common in children, is a bacterial infection that presents with red blotchy skin that eventually blisters and oozes fluids.
Treatment
Most rashes don't require professional medical attention. Instead you should apply moisturizers that contain one-percent hydrocortisone that's available over the counter. Oatmeal baths and calamine lotion can relieve itching often associated with red rashes. Avoid scrubbing the skin and leave it exposed to the air as much as possible.
Warning
See a dermatologist or your family physician if home remedies don't relieve the rash or if you experience additional symptoms. Conditions to watch for include a fever, joint pain or sore throat along with the red skin discoloration. If a red streak develops from the red spot, you should seek immediate medical care because it could indicate blood poisoning, according to Medline Plus.
Considerations
Birthmarks appear in about 10 in 100 babies, according to Mount Sinai Medical Center. The red or purple skin blotches may be flush on the skin or slightly raised. Birthmarks usually develop within a couple days after birth and can continue to grow for the first 12 months. While most birthmarks are not harmful or dangerous, children with three or more birthmarks are at a greater risk of developing skin tumors.
Member Comments