If you’re experiencing a skin rash, there is help available. Skin rashes can manifest as red, inflamed, and bumpy patches on your skin or can be dry, itchy, or painful to the touch. Dermatitis is often the main cause of skin rashes, occurring when your skin reacts to allergens or irritants. Bacteria, viruses, allergens and conditions including eczema, hives, and psoriasis can also be the source of skin rashes. Fortunately, Primary Medical Group provides a variety of treatment options to help relieve your symptoms and get rid of the rash. Continue reading for more information about the common treatments available at our offices.
Common Types of Rashes
There are many types of skin rashes that can occur, such as contact dermatitis, eczema (atopic dermatitis), hives (urticaria), psoriasis, and rashes caused by viral conditions like chickenpox or measles. Contact dermatitis occurs when your body reacts to a substance it doesn’t like and common irritants include fragrances, preservatives, nickel (often found in costume jewelry) and poison ivy. Eczema is more common among those with asthma or allergies and often develops in infancy. Hives can be caused by an allergic reaction to airborne allergens or insect stings and extreme temperature changes as well as certain bacterial infections can also bring on hives. Lastly, psoriasis is a lifelong skin disorder that causes thick, scaly rashes usually found on the elbows, knees, lower back, scalp and genitals and can be inherited.
When to Seek Emergency Treatment
If you experience skin rash with severe trouble breathing that could indicate anaphylaxis, sudden appearance, covering your body, spreading rapidly, fever, blisters or open sores, or looks infected (such as redness, warmth or swelling with pus), it is important to seek medical attention right away.
What treatments are available?
At Primary Medical Group, our experienced physicians can diagnose and treat your skin rash. We use a range of methods to accurately identify the type of rash you have, such as a physical exam, blood tests or allergy tests. Once we have diagnosed your skin rash, we will recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for you.
We offer a variety of treatment options to help relieve your symptoms and get rid of the rash. For those suffering from contact dermatitis, topical steroids or medications like hydrocortisone may help reduce the inflammation and irritation of your skin. Eczema is often treated with topical corticosteroids as well as phototherapy, which utilizes ultraviolet light to reduce symptoms. Hives can be treated with antihistamines and/or corticosteroids. Psoriasis can be treated with topical creams, phototherapy, and prescription medications such as methotrexate or biologic drugs. For viral rashes, the rash may resolve on its own without treatment; however, antihistamines may be prescribed to reduce itching.
Rash Prevention
Taking steps to prevent a skin rash can be an effective way of avoiding any potential discomfort. Avoiding known triggers, such as allergens and irritants, is essential. It’s also important not to share personal items or clothing with someone who has a virus that causes a rash. In addition, using mild, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic soaps, cleansers and moisturizers can help keep your skin healthy. Finally, ensure to wash hands immediately after coming into contact with a known allergen or irritant.
Living with skin rash can be uncomfortable and hindering. If you need assistance with your skincare condition, Primary Medical will provide you with the best care and treatment options available to ensure that your skin rashes are managed properly and in a timely manner. Call us today for more information or if you would like to get established with one of our primary care physicians at (951)225-6808.