Skin Rashes Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

A skin rash is a change in the color and/or texture of the skin on any part of the body. It can have many causes, including allergic reactions, friction, exposure to heat and moisture, infections, fungus, parasites, medications and contact with chemicals or other irritants. A basic skin rash is known as dermatitis. This term simply means inflammation of the skin. Rashes can be caused by many different factors. In some cases, a patient will come into contact with an irritant or allergen that causes the skin to react. This is known as contact dermatitis, and it can be sparked by substances such as detergents, soaps, fabrics, clothing, rubber, solvents and jewelry

Skin rashes can often be identified through a visual examination by a dermatologist or other healthcare professional. In some cases, a skin biopsy or other test (e.g., blood test, urine test) may be necessary to determine the exact nature of a rash. Details from a medical history can also aid diagnosis.

There are many types of skin rashes, and volumes of books would be needed to thoroughly cover them all in some depth.

Eczemas which causes scaly, itchy red rashes may show up at any time during your life. Eczema can occur in anybody at any age and for many different reasons. Eczema is not one thing, but consists of several types of skin rashes including atopic dermatitis and contact dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is to some degree hereditary. Generally, atopic dermatitis is the most frequently seen of the eczemas. It usually begins in early childhood with red, dry cheeks, sensitive skin, and small rashes on various parts of the body, especially in the bends of the elbows and knees, and is associated with strong itch and dry, scaling skin.

One of the most challenging types of allergies and skin rashes to diagnose are those caused by something ingested or common in the environment. Generally these attacks that are brought on by the unfortunate intersection of allergies and skin rashes fall into one of two categories: dermal allergies and systemic allergies that present as skin rashes.

Treatment options vary significantly depending on the type of rash. Some rashes clear on their own over time. Patients can take several steps to relieve symptoms associated with the rash until it clears. These include:

Avoid scrubbing skin. This causes further irritation. Do not apply cosmetic lotions or ointments to a rash. Use minimal amounts of soap. Gentle cleansers are better. Use warm (not hot) water for cleaning. Pat dry. Rubbing with a towel will further irritate the skin. If possible, expose the affected area to the air. This will help speed healing. Use calamine lotion for rashes caused by poison ivy, oak or sumac. Use oatmeal baths to soothe itchiness.

Applying olive oil to the affected skin is one of the most powerful natural remedies for reducing rash. Olive oil contains skin-healing substances that are useful for treatment of rashes. One can even get immediate relief after application of olive oil.

Aloe vera is another potent succulent plant that is mostly used for skin care. One can use good aloe vera gels that are available in the market. If possible use fresh pulp. You can cut an aloe vera leaf lengthwise and extract the colorless pulp from inside the leaf (avoid yellow fluid near the surface of leaf). Apply gel 3 to 4 times a day for effective cure of skin rash.

Persistent rashes should be brought to the attention of a dermatologist or other healthcare professional. Some skin rashes may require special creams, medications or shampoos before the rash clears.