A rash is a reaction of the skin that may include itching, redness, and bumps. Rash is a general term used to describe the effect of a skin condition. There are many potential causes and treatments. Below are some of the common culprits:
Allergies – Skin sensitivity to fragrances, pet dander, or chemicals may cause the skin to become red and irritated.
Eczema – This skin condition characterized by itchy, red, irritated patches. In severe cases, the irritation can ooze, flake, and cause the skin to thicken. Eczema is often associated with other allergies.
Psoriasis –Thick, red scaly patches of skin are characteristic of plaque psoriasis.
Molluscum Contagiosum – This is a viral skin condition that causes pearly bumps on the skin. The bumps may itch but scratching them can spread the virus to other parts of the body. Molluscum contagiosum is highly contagious when bumps are present.
Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, or Poison Sumac – These common skin rashes are caused by contact with certain plants. Topical creams can relieve the inflammation.
Bacterial or Fungal Infection – The body’s immune system response to an infection may include skin irritation.
Rashes that are caused by allergies are typically not dangerous. Unexplained bumps, scaling, or bleeding should be looked at by a us because they could indicate a more serious skin condition.
Treatments depend on the underlying cause of the skin inflammation. If it is caused by contact with irritants, a person can determine what is causing the reaction and avoid it. If a viral, fungal, or bacterial infection is causing the outbreak, a topical cream or oral medication may resolve it. In the case of chronic skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, an ongoing treatment plan is the only way to keep symptoms under control. We can determine the right course of treatment on a case by case basis.
