Itching can lead to irritation and discomfort. It can even be embarrassing to have rashes on your face or hands. Most rashes are not dangerous, and most of them can be treated with non-invasive methods. A rash can usually be treated with OTC (over-the-counter) remedies.
There are some rashes that a doctor should examine. These rashes could be signs of an allergy, infection, or disease. Below are 12 signs that a rash could be an indication of something more serious.
WHAT’S A RASH?
A rash is an area of skin that is itchy and irritated. A rash may be raised, bumpy, or blistered.
Depending on the skin’s colour, rashes may appear differently. People with darker skin may experience rashes that appear pink, red, or purple.
People with darker skin may develop rashes that appear whiter, greyer, or darker than their surrounding skin.
Rashes may be caused by many factors, including;
- Underlying conditions
- Stress
- Sun exposure
- Allergic reactions
- Weather
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TYPES OF RASHES
It is very common to get rashes. Most rash types are mild and can easily be treated with OTC medication. Contact dermatitis, for example, is a rash that occurs when your skin comes in contact with something that causes itching and irritation.
Contact dermatitis is likely if you have ever had a rash after using a laundry detergent, soap, or lotion. Contact dermatitis rash is itchy and inflamed. It will usually be restricted to the area of your skin that was affected by the irritant.
Using an OTC anti-itch lotion is enough to treat contact skin dermatitis.
COMMON RASHES AMONG ADULTS INCLUDE:
- Hives. These are often caused by allergies to medicines, foods, or drinks. They can appear as raised, itchy, splotches, and spread quickly.
- Shingles are caused by the same virus as chickenpox. They can be painful and cause skin bumps and itching. Anyone who has had chickenpox in the past is at risk of developing shingles.
- Chronic rashes. These rashes can be caused by eczema and psoriasis. These conditions can be managed by a dermatologist.
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12 warning signs to seek medical attention for your rash
Sometimes a rash can be a sign that something is seriously wrong with your body. It is a good idea for you to monitor any rash that develops and look out for signs. If you have any, seek medical attention.
HAVE A FEVER
A fever is a sign that you should see a doctor. This could indicate an allergic reaction. It could be a sign of an infection, such as:
- Herpes
- Measles
- Mononucleosis
- Scarlet fever
THE RASH HAS SPREAD
Another sign that it is time to seek medical attention is a rash spreading rapidly. A rapidly spreading rash could indicate a medical emergency. If your rash is rapidly spreading, you should go to the emergency room or an urgent care centre.
It’s a good idea for anyone who notices that your rash is not spreading as quickly as it used to, to have it checked out. This could be an indication that your rash may be caused by an allergy or infection.
THE RASH IS
A medical professional should examine a painful rash. It could be infected, or it could be a sign that you have shingles.
You should also be on the lookout for any rash that’s not painful, but tender when you press down on it. If it persists for more than a few days, it could be an infection.
THE SUDDEN ONSET OF RASH
An allergic reaction to medication may cause a sudden rash. A rash may develop within the first few weeks of starting a new medication. This side effect should be reported to your doctor as soon as possible.
You should be cautious if a rash is the result of an allergic reaction to mediation. This type of reaction can cause difficulty breathing, which could lead to a medical emergency.
THE RASH IS STARTING TO BLISTER
Sometimes, blisters can occur from sunburn or poison ivy. Most cases of sunburn or poison ivy-related rashes will heal themselves.
A doctor should examine any blistering rash unless you are certain it was caused by sunburn or poison ivy. This could indicate that you have an allergic reaction to medication or that your rash may be caused by an autoimmune condition called Pemphigus Vulgaris.
INFECTION SIGNS IN THE RASH
Skin irritations can cause skin damage. It is easy to get infections if you scratch the area. A medical professional should examine a rash that is infected. A rash that is not healing should be checked by a medical professional.
- Pain
- Warmth
- Swelling
- Crusting rash bumps
- Yellow discharge
- Green discharge
- A bad smell
HAVE DIFFICULTY BREATHING
This is a medical emergency. Get immediate medical attention or call 911 immediately. An allergic reaction can manifest as a rash or difficulty breathing. This could happen if you consume or drink something that you are allergic to.
CALL 911
If it occurs with other symptoms, a rash may be an indication of anaphylaxis (a serious medical emergency). If you experience any of the following symptoms, call 911 immediately.
- It is rapidly spreading.
- You are having difficulty breathing.
- You have a high fever.
- Feel dizzy or lightheaded.
- You’re nauseous.
These scenarios are not recommended for driving. Anaphylaxis is a reaction that causes you to become unconscious within a matter of minutes.
LARGE PURPLE SPOTS
If you notice large purple spots or dark bruises on your skin, it could be a sign that you have a serious condition. This could indicate a serious condition such as an infection spreading through your body, or a problem with blood clotting. You could also have vacuities, which cause blood vessels to become inflamed.
“A DOCTOR CAN DIAGNOSE THE CAUSE AND BEGIN TREATMENT”
BRUISES ARE DEVELOPING IN OR AROUND THE RASH
An insect bite might cause a rash that causes swelling and bruising around the skin. If you experience this, it’s important to consult a doctor immediately. A bite can cause swelling and bruises.
THE RASH HAS A CIRCULAR SHAPE
Lyme disease could be indicated by a circular-shaped rash. Lyme disease is usually caused by ticks and causes a rash similar to the flu. Lyme disease is treated with antibiotics. To receive a diagnosis and prescription, you will need to see a doctor.
THE RASH HAS BEEN AROUND FOR MORE THAN A WEEK
It is worth seeking medical attention if the rash persists for more than one week. Your body might not be healing properly. Even if the rash is not severe, a doctor can offer tips on how to treat it at your home.
YOU ARE CONCERNED OR EXPERIENCING DISCOMFORT FROM THE RASH
A dermatologist can examine any rash that causes you significant discomfort or concern. It might just be contact dermatitis. However, it is still a good idea for you to see a doctor.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Common skin conditions include rashes. Most rashes are gone away on their own. A rash could be an indication of something more serious.
Rashes can be caused by allergies, infections, autoimmune disorders, and other conditions. A medical professional should examine you. Urticarial is a medical emergency that can be caused by trouble breathing, fever, lightheadedness, or nausea.
