What are rashes?
Dermatitis is the medical term for a rash or skin irritation. Rashes have a wide range of causes and occur in various forms. Usually, rashes involve swollen, reddened skin that may be itchy or patches of dry skin. Sometimes, rashes cause your skin to blister or flake off. The blisters may ooze and form a crust.
Rashes affect people of all ages, including infants. They can be a sign of an allergic reaction, a bacterial or viral infection, or another underlying condition. If you or your child has a rash that’s painful, shows signs of infection, or persists despite self-care, call the team at A to Z Dermatology.
What do different types of rashes look like?
Rashes can cause a wide range of signs and symptoms, including:
Eczema
Also known as atopic dermatitis, eczema causes red, itchy skin. Usually, the rashes occur in areas where your skin flexes, like behind your knees and inside your elbows. Eczema affects up to 30% of people and often begins in childhood.
Contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a red, itchy rash that may cause stinging pain. Blisters may also develop. This rash occurs when your skin comes into contact with an irritating substance, such as poison ivy or certain metals. Contact dermatitis may be due to an allergic reaction to the substance.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis causes thick, scaly skin on various parts of your body, such as the elbows, knees, and scalp. This condition is due to an overactive immune system.
Other rashes
The rashes listed above are a few of the most common types, but you can get many other rashes. The one thing they all have in common is itchy skin. Any time you or a loved one has a rash without a clear cause, call the team at A to Z Dermatology for an accurate diagnosis.
How are rashes diagnosed and treated?
First, the team at A to Z Dermatology carefully examines your rash and reviews your symptoms and medical history. They may take tests, such as blood tests or skin patch testing to check for allergies.
Then, they create a personalized treatment plan. Treatment for rashes varies depending on the cause. Your dermatologist may recommend one or more of the following:
- Corticosteroid creams or ointments for itch relief
- Wet compresses
- Avoiding allergens and irritants
- Light therapy
For comprehensive care of rashes, call A to Z Dermatology or request an appointment online today.
