If you have sensitive skin, or are one of those people who gets rashes often, you know how itchy, red, painful and irritated your skin can become. It can be miserable! A rash is almost always a symptom caused by fungus or irritating substances and allergies. It’s important to figure out what kind of rash you have before treating it.
I dropped by WCNC’s Charlotte Today to talk about the most common types of rashes, how to treat them and when you should worry.
Contact dermatitis:
- What is it? A type of eczema most people get by touching something that causes a rash due to an allergy (like poison ivy), an irritant (like bleach) or lots of contact with water.
- What can we do? Tame the triggers that commonly cause contact dermatitis. Keep in mind these can be things that caused no previous issue (like a wedding ring).
- Common treatments: Antihistamine pills, moisturizer, corticosteroids and oatmeal baths
Ringworm:
- What is it? Ringworm is a skin infection caused by fungus (no worms involved). The name probably comes from the rash’s ring-shaped pattern and raised, scaly border.
- What can we do? The fungus that causes ringworm thrives in warm, moist areas, so keep the area clean and dry.
- Common treatments: Depending upon where this rash appears your doctor will likely prescribe an antifungal ointment, cream or powder.
Shingles:
- What is it? Anyone who has had chickenpox can get shingles. If the virus reactivates (wakes up), often later in life, the result is shingles – a painful, blistering rash.
- What can we do? You can get a vaccine, but it is often not covered by insurance.
- Common treatments: Pain relievers, anti-viral medicine, nerve blocks and corticosteroids
Be worried if the rash is all over your body, is accompanied by a fever, appears suddenly or spreads rapidly! The rash might be infected if it exhibits discharge, swelling, pain or heat.