Skin Rash

A rash is an area of red patches or bumps on the skin. (Read about "Skin") Rashes can often be itchy. A skin rash can sometimes be accompanied by hives, which are raised red or pink patches of skin. (Read about "Hives") Skin rashes can be the result of an infection. (Read about "Microorganisms") They can also be associated with a number of diseases and conditions, including but not limited to:

• eczema and dermatitis (Read about "Eczema and Dermatitis")
• psoriasis (Read about "Psoriasis")
• allergies (Read about "Allergies")
• impetigo (Read about "Impetigo")
• infection such as tinea (Read about "Tinea: Ringworm, Jock Itch and Athletes Foot.")
• shingles (Read about "Shingles")
• some types of arthritis such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis (Read about "Lupus" "Rheumatoid Arthritis")
• reaction to medication (Read about "Medicine Safety")
• lichen planus (Read about "Lichen Planus")
• pityriasis rosea (Read about "Pityriasis Rosea")
• illnesses such as Kawasaki disease, hand foot and mouth disease, measles, mumps and chickenpox (Read about "Kawasaki Disease" "Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease" "Childhood Illnesses: Measles, Mumps, Chicken Pox, Pertussis & Rubella")
• rosacea (Read about "Rosacea")
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever (Read about "Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever")
• Lyme disease (Read about "Lyme Disease")

Many skin rashes are diagnosed on the basis of their appearance. Treatment options include:

• gentle cleansing with warm or cool water
• calamine lotion
• avoidance of irritating creams or fabrics
• antibacterial creams or ointments that may be prescribed if your doctor determines that the rash is caused by bacteria (Read about "Antibiotics")
• antifungal creams or ointments that may be prescribed if the doctor determines that the rash is the result of a fungal infection
• prescription medication

You should see your doctor or healthcare provider if a rash doesn't go away, if it is swollen or warm to the touch, or if you have other symptoms such as fever. Your doctor may want you to have a biopsy to rule out serious conditions. (Read about "Biopsy")

Related Information:

    Skin Care