When To See A Doctor For A Rash

They’re itchy, unsightly and annoying, but rashes are a part of life. Rashes may look similar, but while over-the-counter medications can treat some rashes, others can signal a more serious condition, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) says.

Key Takeaways: Rashes

• Rashes are common but have many causes. They can appear in different forms (red, itchy, blistering) and may be caused by allergies, infections, skin conditions or irritants.
• Not all rashes can be treated the same. While many mild rashes improve with over-the-counter creams and moisturizers, proper diagnosis is important for effective treatment.
• Watch for warning signs of something more serious. A rash with fever, pain, rapid spreading, blisters or symptoms like body aches or swelling may require medical attention.
• Prevention and early care for rashes matter. Avoid common triggers like irritants and bug bites, protect your skin and seek care if a rash doesn’t improve within a few days.

What Are Rashes?

Rashes are very common. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, rashes can appear as blotches, welts, or blisters; they can be red, itchy, scaly or dry; and they can occur in one area of skin or all over the body. In addition, some rashes may come and go, while others never seem to go away.

There are several causes for rashes, said Lindsay Vanlaere, RN, FNP-BC, nurse practitioner at Franciscan ExpressCare in West Lafayette. These include:

• Drug allergies
• Bug bite rash (spider, fleas, scabies, lice, tick bite)
• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Viral rashes (fifth disease, hand-foot-and-mouth, scarlet fever)
• Fungal
• Infectious (impetigo/cellulitis)
• Dermatitis (diaper rash, poison ivy)
• Chicken pox/shingles

What To Do If You Have A Rash

Remember your mother’s advice? Try not to scratch! If you do, the rash may take longer to heal, and you'll be more likely to develop an infection or scar.

Over-the-counter medications can help treat rashes, including steroid creams, emollients, antibiotic ointments and diaper rash creams. But if a rash doesn’t go away or you’re not sure what has caused the rash, seek medical help.

“Rashes should be seen at a doctor’s office when they cause discomfort to the individual that does not go away with over-the-counter medications within a few days,” said Vanlaere.

Vanlaere also noted certain symptoms to look for when you have a rash. These symptoms, combined with a rash, may be signs of a more serious medical problem.

• Fever
• Joint pain
• Body aches
• Headaches
• Sore throat

Treatment For Rashes

Treatment for a rash depends on its cause and severity.

For many mild rashes, especially those linked to conditions like eczema, simple at-home care can help. According to the National Institutes of Health, using a fragrance-free moisturizer with ingredients like ceramides, glycerin or mineral oil can help keep the skin hydrated and protected.

Over-the-counter creams with hydrocortisone can also help ease itching, redness and swelling.

Since rashes can have many different causes, it’s important to get the right diagnosis so the most effective treatment can be recommended.

When To See A Doctor For A Rash

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends people with rashes use these clues to know when to seek medical attention:

• A rash over most of your body.
• A rash that blisters or turns into open sores or raw skin
• Fever or illness with a rash
• A rash that spreads rapidly
• A painful rash
• A rash involving the eyes, lips, mouth or genital skin

If you have trouble breathing or swallowing, or your eyes or lips swell up, emergency medical care may be necessary and should be sought immediately.

When it comes to rashes in children they may be uncomfortable, but they should clear up, either on their own or with at-home treatment.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics if your child’s rash lasts more than a week, it’s best to call their healthcare provider.

How To Prevent Rashes

• Avoid plants like poison ivy, poison oak and nettles. Learn what they look like, and wear long sleeves and pants when camping or gardening. If you do have a run-in with these plants, avoid rubbing your eyes to prevent getting them infected.
• Use insect repellent to avoid bug bites.
• Be aware that new personal hygiene products, including lotion, soap and shampoo, may cause skin reactions.
• Avoid wearing jewelry containing nickel, a common skin irritant.
• If you have eczema, avoid harsh soaps that may dry your skin.
• Wear sunscreen to avoid a sunburn that may later become red and itchy.