Rashes

What are rashes?

A rash is a section of irritated skin. Many rashes have skin bumps, blisters, itchiness, or raw skin, but others may only cause skin redness and swelling. There are many types of rashes, each with its own unique appearance and symptoms.  

When should I seek treatment for a rash?

The Idaho Skin Institute team welcomes you to make an appointment if you develop any new rash. It's particularly important to seek treatment if you have issues like:

• Flaky skin
• Extremely dry skin
• Sore or painful skin
• Oozing sores
• Cracked skin
• Crusting skin
• Widespread rash
• Severe itchiness
• Blisters

If you have a new fever along with your rash or breathing problems and throat swelling, seek emergency help immediately. These symptoms could indicate a severe allergic reaction or infection.

What causes rashes?

The best way to find out the cause of your rash is an appointment at Idaho Skin Institute. Some of the many different reasons for rashes include:

• Environmental allergies
• Viral infections
• Bacterial infections
• Fungal infections
• Eczema
• Rosacea
• Shingles
• Psoriasis
• Food allergies
• Poison ivy and poison oak
• Prescription medication
• Insect stings or bites
• Heat

Diagnosis is the first step in resolving a troublesome rash.

How are rashes diagnosed?

The Idaho Skin Institute team carefully examines your rash, takes a thorough medical history, and evaluates your symptoms. Provide details about what the rash feels like, when flare-ups occur, and how you manage the symptoms to help the team make an accurate diagnosis.

The team may swab your skin or take a tiny skin sample for testing. In some cases, you may need blood testing to check for infections and other health issues. Usually, the team can diagnose the rash right away, and you can start treatment that same day.

How are rashes treated?

The Idaho Skin Institute team offers many different treatments for rashes. Your treatment depends on the particular type of rash, with some common approaches including:

• Anti-itch creams 
• Corticosteroids - topical or oral 
• Condition-specific topical creams
• Oral antihistamines
• Moisturizing creams or lotions
• Antifungal, antiviral, or antibiotic medications
• Allergy shots
• Laser treatments

Along with medical dermatology treatments, the team may recommend home strategies to help control the rash, such as oatmeal baths, stress reduction techniques, and avoiding your triggers. 

For help with a rash, call Idaho Skin Institute or book an appointment online today.