Diagnosing Skin Rashes

Introduction

A skin rash can be very irritating, especially when we are unsure of what it is. Because of the common rashes we occasionally experience, like stress and heat rashes, we are leery of jumping to conclusions at the first signs of one. In certain cases, it is a big mistake to ignore the beginning signs of a rash. Most rashes represent a minimal problem, and can be cured with the right over-the-counter products and medications. Changing your diet or the way you clean your skin can correct many skin problems and rashes. However, there are serious and contagious skin problems that need to be addressed by a professional.

Skin Disorders and Rashes

Three of the most common skin disorders that can cause rashes are eczema, psoriasis and rosacea. Eczema is often called dermatitis. It is an inflammatory skin disorder than can cause the skin to break, bleed and/or become raw. In its mildest form, eczema causes the skin to be hot, itchy and dry, which causes rashes. Psoriasis is a non-contagious chronic skin disorder that is also inflammatory. Rosacea appears on the face and chest. It causes the skin to be red and swollen. Rosasea also can flare up on the back, neck, scalp and ears. In its early stage, rosasea manifests as a red, patchy rash. These three conditions can be controlled by medication prescribed by a physician.

Viral rashes are caused by viruses and are contagious. Since they are viruses, they often are accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, nausea, vomiting, body aches and headaches. The types of viral rashes are chicken pox, shingles and hives.

Fungus and bacteria in the skin also cause rashes. Ringworm, Lyme disease, strep and syphilis are just some of the rashes caused by fungus and bacteria. Most mild forms of fungus and bacterial rashes can be cured by over-the-counter rash medication. Some more serious cases need to be assessed by a physician.

The most common types of rashes are heat or stress rashes. They are caused by stress or extremely hot weather. These rashes appear quickly and disappear just as fast. No other symptoms accompany them, other than small, itchy bumps on the skin.

Diagnosing the Skin Rash

At the very first sign of a serious skin rash, seek medical help. What you're experiencing may be nothing more than irritation from certain types of fibers, soaps, lotions or laundry detergents. However, many people ignore the first warning signs until the symptoms are much more severe. Many individuals can identity common rashes, such as chicken pox and ringworm, by their distinct appearance. Other rashes aren't as easy to diagnose, and require consultation with a doctor.