Skin Rashes
Skin rashes refer to changes in the skin that generally affects color and texture. Most rashes are also accompanied by itchiness or some other form of discomfort. Rashes may occur locally or it can be generalized an affect the entire body. Rashes may appear random and diffused, but it can also appear in certain patterns such as 'butterfly rash' that may accompany certain autoimmune diseases. This skin condition is usually triggered by an allergen, but may also be triggered by other factors.
Common Causes of Skin Rashes
Rashes can have a gradual onset. Most of them, however, occur and spread within a very short time. Some of the common causes of rashes include the following:
- Anxiety - Although predominantly a psychological event, anxiety has been shown to represent itself in physical symptoms such as excessive sweating, hyperventilation, tachycardia, and sometimes in hives, blisters and other forms of rashes.
- Allergies - These are perhaps the most common rash triggers. Allergens may be inhaled, ingested with the skin resulting in an overreaction of the immune system. Rashes are one of the most common manifestations associated with allergies.
- Contact With an Irritant - Irritants coming in contact with the skin such as abrasive materials and irritating chemicals may also cause patients to break out rashes. Friction may also be considered an irritant. Tight collars and the use of uncomfortable backpacks may also cause rashes to erupt.
- Exposure to Sunlight - Sunlight and ultraviolet rays can cause sunburn and heat rash. This can be prevented with the wearing of sun block and occlusive clothing.
Other factors that may result in the development of rashes include bacterial infection, viral infection, fungal infection, and reaction to vaccination, transfusion reaction, hormonal changes, dry skin rash, eczema, acne, and more.
Rarer causes of rashes also include menstruation, pregnancy, autoimmune disorders, and even lead poisoning.
Skin Rash Treatment
Relief of symptoms is the main goal in the treatment of skin rashes. Relief may be achieved with the use of medication such as antihistamines and steroids that help relieve swelling. Some home remedies may also help relieve the itchiness and discomfort of rashes. These treatments include the following a sitz bath and wet dressings.
It is also important that patients touch their rash as little as possible. Scratching can only make skin rashes increase in severity. This rule should go for adult skin rashes, children skin rashes, and rashes in older patients. It may, however, be more difficult for parents to prevent kids from scratching their rashes.