Skin rashes are not a disease, but instead, a symptom of a skin condition or disease. Rashes are an outbreak on the skin, often itchy or painful. When you have a rash, it may be a symptom of a more serious health condition. At MJR Dermatology in Lawrenceville, GA, Dr. Matthew Reschly can use his expertise to determine the cause of your outbreak and recommend an effective skin rash treatment to give you relief.
Skin rashes can present differently depending on the underlying cause. The most recognizable rash has small bumps or blisters that are usually red or darker in color. Rashes tend to itch or burn – some rashes will cause the skin to tingle or itch before it erupts with bumps or blisters. There are hundreds of possible causes of rashes, which is why you may need a skin specialist to determine the cause of your itchy, red skin.
Causes of Skin Rashes
When you have an uncomfortable skin rash that does not easily disappear with anti-itch creams or OTC medications, you may have a skin condition that needs treatment. Some causes of rashes are acute and temporary, while others can be chronic and may pose health risks. The most common causes of rashes include:
- Psoriasis
- Eczema
- Poison ivy, oak or sumac exposure
- Contact dermatitis
- Allergic reaction (food, medication, insect bites, etc.)
- Viruses (chicken pox/shingles, measles)
- Fungal infections
The first step in relieving rash symptoms is diagnosis. Dr. Reschly can examine the rash and may need to take a biopsy of the skin in some circumstances to determine what medical condition is causing the eruption. Skin rash treatment depends on the cause, but most can be relieved with topical creams to calm the skin. However, chronic and acute rashes may require other treatments to control outbreaks, including corticosteroids, light therapy and other medications or therapies.
If you have a skin rash that is very painful or itchy and it persists for more than a few days, it may be time to visit a dermatologist. To make an appointment with Dr. Reschly, call our team at MJR Dermatology. We can book your skin rash exam and consultation at our skin care clinic in Lawrenceville, GA.