1. To Scratch or Not to Scratch?
There are many types of skin infections that can cause an itch. Eczema is an itchy rash of the skin that is very common in children or people with allergic reactions. The rash comes in the form of thick blisters that look like pudding on the hands. Many times the rash can be found on fingers and around the feet. Eczema is most often treated with topical steroids and sometimes with over-the-counter creams and herbal remedies.
Chicken pox is a very itchy rash that is caused by a virus. With advances in medical science and vaccination, chicken pox is hardly ever seen in the American population. There are many cases, however, of pregnant women who develop chicken pox.
Scabies is a rash that is caused by a mite that burrows under the skin. The rash presents itself as red and bumpy and can sometimes be found around the wrist, between fingers or in armpits. Scabies is treated with a lotion that kills the mite, but the rash can last for up to a month.
Impetigo is a common infection in children that can also occur in adults. It is usually caused by the staph or strep bacteria. People with impetigo have skin lesions accompanied by minimal signs and symptoms of an infection. Impetigo can either appear as small vesicles with a honey-colored crust or purulent-appearing bullae. Bullous impetigo is less common than small-vesicle impetigo.
2. Is it Boiling or Blistering?
Blisters can be painful or itchy. Herpes has been known to break out into blisters, but it is also important to know that the initial symptoms are very specific. Read below for how to identify symptoms of the herpes virus.
3. Does it Tingle and Burn?
Herpes is caused by the herpes virus and infects the skin but then stays around in the body to come back and cause reoccurring breakouts. Herpes symptoms start with a tingling or burning sensation around the affected area. Within a few days of the breakout, painful blisters will pop up and then form skin ulcers. There are treatment options for herpes that can make the rash go away, but this is a life-long disease, and currently there is no cure.
