How to Identify a Skin Rash
Skin rashes are a common condition that can affect anyone at any age. There are a variety of different types of skin rashes, and they can all present differently. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of different types of rashes can help identify their underlying cause. This article will explore how to identify a skin rash, including eczema, psoriasis, contact dermatitis and more.
1. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
Eczema is a chronic condition characterized by itchy, inflamed skin. It often begins in childhood and can persist into adulthood. Severe itching is one of the hallmark symptoms of eczema. Affected areas may appear red and swollen, and the skin often feels dry and may peel or flake. In more severe cases, eczema can cause oozing blisters that may crust over.
2. Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that accelerates the skin cell production cycle, leading to the buildup of thick, scaly patches. These plaques often present as raised and red and can be covered in silvery-white scales. Some people experience itching or a burning sensation as well as cracked and bleeding skin. Psoriasis can even cause discoloration of the nails or even detachment of the nails in more severe cases.
3. Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen, triggering an inflammatory reaction. This typically looks like a red, inflamed rash that feels itchy or burning. In some cases, blisters may form and ooze, and mild to moderate swelling may occur around the rash.
4. Hives (Urticaria)
Hives are raised, itchy welts that can result from an allergic reaction. They present as red welts that vary in size and shape, often with intense and widespread itching. Hives can appear and disappear quickly, sometimes even within a matter of hours. They're most often triggered by food allergens, medications, insect stings or stress.
5. Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that primarily affects the face, causing redness and visible blood vessels. It takes the form of persistent redness, often on the cheeks, nose and forehead. In some cases, tiny blood vessels may become visible on the skin’s surface and small, red, pus-filled bumps may appear. In severe cases, the skin may thicken, especially on the nose.
6. Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin condition that primarily affects oily areas of the body, such as the scalp, face and chest. Common symptoms include flaky skin, dandruff or yellowish scales as well as mild to moderate itching. The affected areas often appear red and inflamed and the most common locations are the scalp, eyebrows, sides of the nose and behind the ears.
7. Shingles (Herpes Zoster)
Shingles is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox. Early symptoms include pain, tingling or burning sensation as well as a painful rash that typically appears on one side of the body or face. In some severe cases, fluid-filled blisters can show up and eventually crust over. Some people even report experiencing fever, fatigue or headache as symptoms of their shingles.
8. Impetigo
Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection, most common in children. It most commonly presents as small red sores that quickly burst and form a honey-colored crust. They are notoriously very itchy, leading to further spread if scratched. The most common locations for impetigo to appear include around the nose, mouth, hands and feet.
When to Seek Medical Attention
The presence of a skin rash is not necessarily a reason to be alarmed. However, while many rashes are mild and resolve on their own, some may indicate a more serious condition requiring medical attention. Seek a doctor’s advice if:
- The rash is accompanied by fever or severe pain.
- The rash spreads rapidly or shows signs of infection (such as pus or swelling).
- Over-the-counter treatments are ineffective.