Allergic Rash

WHAT IS A RASH?

Allergic Rash Treatment – A rash can be defined as a noticeable change in the texture and tone of the skin, which can cause itchy, bumpy, scaly or irritated skin. There are various types of rashes, each with a different cause of origin.

TYPES OF RASHES AND THEIR CAUSES

The most common type of rash that occurs is known as Contact Dermatitis. This happens when your skin comes in contact with any foreign substance/object with causes an adverse reaction on the surface of the skin. This results in a rash that can be red, inflamed and/or itchy. The commonly known causes of Contact Dermatitis are as follows:

1. Soaps and laundry detergents
2. Beauty products
3. Specific dyes used in clothing
4. Chemicals found in rubber, plastic, etc.
5. Contact with poisonous plants such as poison ivy, poison oak, etc.

Some other types of rashes and their causes are as follows:

1. Rashes can be caused by insects such as ticks, bed bugs, fleas, etc. The area of the bite is prone to become itchy and irritated, leading to a rash. In some cases, like the tick bite, extra precaution is needed as the bite could lead to other transmitted diseases as well.
2. Eczema, also known as Atopic Dermatitis, is a commonly occurring rash that is found in people with asthma or related allergies. The rash site tends to be itchy and reddish, with a scaly texture.
3. A common skin condition, Psoriasis can cause rashes on the scalp and joints that are reddish, scaly and itchy in nature.
4. Lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease that causes the formation of rashes on the cheeks and nose regions. The rashes formed are often called ‘butterfly rash’ or ‘malar rash’, as it spans the nose bridge and cheeks, resembling a butterfly.
5. Rosacea is a chronic disease and its exact cause is still unknown. However, the disease in itself is characterized by the formation of reddish rashes on the face.
6. A fungal infection, Ringworm causes a distinct rash that is circular or ‘ring-shaped’ in nature. The fungus that causes this disease is also responsible for infections such as jock itch and athlete’s foot.
7. Commonly found in babies, Diaper rash is a form of rash that occurs due to prolonged wearing of a diaper that needs to be changed.
8. Scabies is a disease in which tiny mites burrow into your skin and live there. It causes bumpy and itchy rashes on the body.
9. Cellulitis is another infection that can cause red, swollen rashes that are painful to touch. Caused by bacteria, this infection, if left untreated, can be life-threatening.
10. Rashes can also form as a side effect to a certain medication you take.

There are various other causes for the formation of rashes. Since children are especially susceptible to diseases and infections, many of them unfortunately also cause rash formations:

1. Chicken pox: a viral infection that causes red, itchy blisters all over the body.
2. Measles: a viral respiratory disease that causes itchy, red bumps on the body.
3. Scarlet Fever: a bacterial infection that causes reddish rashes that have a sandpaper-like texture.
4. Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease: a viral infection that can cause red lesions on the mouth and rashes on the hands and legs.
5. Fifth Disease: a viral infection that causes red, flat rashes on the cheeks, arms and legs.
6. Kawasaki Disease: a rare yet deadly condition that can cause rashes and fever in the initial stage, and can lead to aneurysms in the coronary artery.
7. Impetigo: a contagious bacterial infection that causes itchy, crusty rashes as well as yellow sores on the face, neck, and hands.

Allergic Rash Treatment

Most rashes can be treated easily, and the treatments can vary depending on the cause and severity of the rash. Following these steps, however, can help ease any irritation and quickens the recovery process:

1. Swap out scented soaps for mild, gentle cleansers.
2. Use lukewarm water when washing your skin and hair.
3. Do not rub the rash to dry it. Instead, pat it dry.
4. Avoid covering the rash with any clothing. Let it breathe.
5. Stop the usage of any cosmetics or lotions that may have caused or aggravated the rash.
6. For Eczema, unscented moisturizers can help soothe the rash.
7. Avoid scratching the rash as it can worsen the condition.
8. If the rash is extremely itchy and irritable, apply hydrocortisone creams or calamine lotions to alleviate the discomfort.
9. An oatmeal bath is a great way to alleviate discomfort and itchiness caused by Eczema and Psoriasis rashes.
10. Medicines can also be used to treat or better the rashes. Tylenol and Advil are some common medications used to alleviate pain due to the rashes. Do note that any medication needs to be clinically and professionally administered, so as to achieve the best results for your condition.

Upon consultation with the doctor, and by following these precautionary steps, you can control your rash from worsening and even get rid of it for good! However, in some cases, rashes may be harder to treat.

Do consult the doctor immediately, if you happen to experience any of the following:

1. Worsened pain and discolouration of the allergic rash
2. Tight or itchy throat
3. Breathing difficulties
4. Swelling or other extremities of the face
5. Prolonged fever of 38℃ or more
6. Confusion and Dizziness
7. Severe head and neck pain
8. Consistent vomiting and diarrhea

Do also let your doctor know if you happen to have the rash along with other systemic symptoms such as:

• Joint pain
• Sore throat
• Fever of 38℃ or more
• Red streaks or tenderness in the rash region
• Recent insect/animal bite

No matter what the type and cause of your allergic rash are, Dr. Ang is dedicated and determined to provide you with the most suitable Allergic Rash Treatment, with a personalized approach.