Rash is a general term used to indicate skin inflammation. The normal color and texture of the skin changes when rash is formed. Rashes can develop due to infection caused by bacteria or virus or fungus. Common problem caused by skin rash is moderate to severe itching which can be resolved by over the counter antihistamines. Some of the common types of rashes are eczema, dermatitis and heat rash.
Types :
Rashes can be non-infectious and restricted to particular area of the body. These types of rashes do not require any special treatment and it is enough if you treat them with hydrocortisone ointment.
Dermatitis :
It is the most common type of skin rash occurring in adults and children. There are many different kinds of dermatitis like seborrheic dermatitis (marked by red lesions and is formed on the forehead, scalp and cheeks), atopic dermatitis (marked by red colored itchy rash which is formed on the elbows, knees, cheeks and neck area) and contact dermatitis (allergic rash caused by chemical allergens and plants like poison ivy oak).
- Diaper rash is a type of dermatitis affecting infants and toddlers and occurs due to unhygienic practice.
- Statis dermatitis is another type of dermatitis affecting lower legs causing inflammation on the veins.
- Psoriasis is a type of skin rash that cause lesions or bumps oozing out pus like fluid which attacks scalp and elbows.
Diagnoses :
The doctor will examine the skin surface and look for the prominent presence of lesions, fluid filled bumps or scaly patches. He would also assess the size, color and shape of the lesions to identify its type. Next he will look for the area in which the rashes are distributed in the body to confirm his analysis.
Normally the fungal and bacterial infections are restricted to some parts of the skin surface. Scaly red patches found on the legs and arms can be of fungal infection like eczema or ringworm. It can be yeast infection if the skin folds are affected developing into armpit rash or Jock itch. Bacterial infection rashes can be impetigo or cellulitis.
Skin Rashes Treatment :
For treating skin rashes caused by fungal infection, antifungal creams are prescribed. Over the counter ointments like Lotrimin that contains clotrimazole or Laisil can be effective. Often, fungal infections will be resolved by using creams obtained at the drugstore. In case if the rashes do not respond, you need to consult with your doctor. For treating skin rashes caused by bacterial infection, antibiotics are given either in the form of oral pills or cream.
Sometimes both the pills and topical creams are combined for treating the rashes. Often, viral rashes do not require any treatment and the symptoms will fade away within a week or two. You can take antihistamines to control itching. Hives like urticaria spread quickly within hours to many parts of the body. But they will disappear in fast pace in most of the cases. It is enough if you take home remedies for managing heat rashes. Heat rashes are common in hot weather and it occurs as pimples or red blisters in the groin and under the breasts or in the places where the skin is folded.
Home Remedies :
If you have itchy feeling on the hands or feet you can wash the area with soapy water quickly. Do not cover the rash and leave it open. Avoid rubbing or scratching the rash since it may make it worse. Apply cool compresses on the rash and keep the skin cool and moist. Avoid going out in the hot sun. Taking oatmeal bath is highly useful to control itching. Apply calamine lotion in large amounts.
Wear only cotton clothing in hot weather and do not change your soap often. After bathing allow some time for the skin to dry instead of patting it with towel. If the itching is severe you can apply cream that contains hydrocortisone for managing itchy feeling. Take oral antihistamines like Benadryl or chloropheniramine to get quick relief. Apply moisturizing lotion liberally on the affected area of the skin to get soothing effect. Do not hesitate to call your doctor if the skin rash does not respond to any kind of home remedies or if you have fever accompanied with rash.
Pictures of Skin Rashes :
Images, Pics, Pictures and Photos of Skin rashes
Prevention :
You cannot totally prevent heat rash if you are living in hot climatic zones. Maintain good personal hygiene. Avoid sharing towels or soaps with others. Do not change soaps often. Use mild soap and skin creams that do not irritate your skin. Vaccination is available for chickenpox and measles.