Rashes

Most people get at least a few rashes throughout life, but for some, rashes are a chronic issue. If you have a rash that needs diagnosis and treatment, the dermatologists can evaluate and manage your symptoms at Shady Grove Dermatology in Rockville, Maryland. Schedule an appointment online or over the phone for professional rash care today.

What do rashes look like?

Rashes happen when your skin becomes inflamed. Some of them are acute and go away on their own in a matter of hours or days, while others are long-lasting and indicative of an underlying condition. You might develop a rash in response to a specific trigger because of an allergy or skin sensitivity. 

Rashes can take on different features, such as:

• Widespread redness
• Red bumps or hives
• Blotches
• Blisters
• Dry skin
• Burning
• Itching
• Swelling

Your dermatologist at Shady Grove Dermatology examines the rash. Because rashes can be tricky to diagnose based on a visual exam alone, you might also need a biopsy, allergy test, or blood test to determine the cause. 

What are some common rash types?

Shady Grove Dermatology routinely sees rashes from a wide variety of causes and conditions. Some of the most common rash causes are: 

Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis or eczema is a common cause of rashes that flare up throughout life. 

Infections

Bacterial infections like impetigo, viral infections like shingles, and fungal infections like ringworm can all cause rashes with various symptoms. 

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis involves rashes that appear in response to allergens or sensitivities like fragrances, metals, or detergents. 

Chronic skin diseases

Chronic skin diseases can affect your skin for months or years. They may also flare up intermittently. Some common examples are acne, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis. 

Rashes rarely come from more severe conditions like cancer or kidney disease. 

How are rashes treated? 

The treatment you receive for a rash depends on the underlying cause, though many rashes subside without treatment or with home care alone. Your dermatologist at Shady Grove Dermatology determines the best course of personalized care after a detailed evaluation of your skin and diagnostic testing. 

Treatments that might alleviate your rash based on the cause include:

• Topical steroids
• Oatmeal baths
• Moisturizers
• Immunosuppressants for rashes from autoimmune conditions
• Oral antihistamines for allergic rashes
• Antibacterial, antifungal, or antiviral medications for infections

If you have contact dermatitis, consider paying close attention to the materials causing your symptoms and avoiding them when possible.

For more information on rashes and rash treatments, call Shady Grove Dermatology or book a rash evaluation online today.