Rashes

"Rash" is a general term for a wide variety of skin conditions 

A rash refers to a change that affects the skin and usually appears as a red patch, small bumps or blisters on the skin. The majority of rashes are harmless, but it is important to confirm the type and severity of your rash with a board-certified dermatologist.

Rashes can be a symptom for other skin problems. The most prevalent of these are:

• Atopic Dermatitis, the most common form of eczema.
• Bacterial Infections, such as impetigo.
• Contact Dermatitis, a type of eczema caused by coming into contact with an allergen.
• Chronic skin problems, such as acne, psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis.
• Fungal Infections, such as ringworm and yeast infection.
• Viral Infections, such as shingles.

A rash may be a sign of a more serious illness, such as Lyme Disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, liver disease, kidney disease or some types of cancers. 

What is a skin rash?

Skin rash is a general term referring to a broad outbreak of irritated, inflamed, or swollen skin. Rashes can present in a variety of ways, depending on the cause. Rashes can be localized or spread throughout the entire body - they range in severity from completely harmless to highly contagious. If you detect a rash on your skin or a loved one’s skin, it is important to schedule a consultation with a board certified dermatologist as soon as possible to determine the cause, severity, and treatment. 

What Causes A Rash?

Here are some typical causes of rashes on the skin:

Rashes Caused By Infections

• Viruses like shingles, vermicelli zoster, herpes, measles, rubella, rosella, chicken pox, or COVID-19
• Bacterial illness like Lyme disease, scarlet fever, and impetigo
• Fungal infections like athlete’s foot, nail fungus, jock itch, and ringworm

Rashes Caused By Allergies

• Allergies to certain medications
• Allergies to topical skin care or makeup
• Allergies to foods - particularly shellfish, peanuts, and eggs
• Insect bites

Rashes can also appear after the skin is directly exposed to water or urine for a prolonged period of time. The most common case of this type of rash is diaper rash.

Rashes Caused By Plants

Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac all share a poisonous sap resin that may result in allergic rashes in up to 70% of individuals who come into contact with their leaves.

Eczema

Eczema Symptoms

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a fairly common rash condition that mostly affects the hands, elbows, knees, feet, neck, scalp and eyes. Infants and toddlers are more susceptible to eczema, but they are likely to grow out of the condition by childhood. Thankfully, eczema is not contagious. With eczema, the skin is often itchier before any visible signs of the condition begin to show. To avoid further discomfort, schedule a consultation.

Eczema signs and symptoms include: 

• Itchiness
• Skin redness
• Dryness or scaliness
• Blistering

Contact our Delray Beach dermatology office today if you're experiencing any of the signs or symptoms of a potential skin rash. 

At Feinstein Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, you're in the very best hands.

Call our Delray Beach office at (561) 498-4407 and schedule an appointment today.