What's This Rash: Diagnosing an Itchy Skin Rash

If you wake up one morning with a red rash on your body it can be a bit scary. Some rashes are not itchy and others may burn or sting. Some have no sensation but are just inflammations. Think about if there is something contagious that others have or that may be passed around in your child's school. Often a child will be able to tell you if some kids are out and if there is chicken pox or an outbreak in the school. Notes are not always sent home about these matters unfortunately. One rash that is highly contagious is the scabies rash. This is caused by a mite that is invisible which lays eggs inside the skin. The rash is actually an allergic reaction. It can spread quickly through nursing homes, classrooms and families through direct skin contact. Kids are often wrestling , passing toys to each other and interacting physically. A cream is put on the body overnight and it is advised that all family members as well as classmates (if the patient is a student) apply this as well so that the mites don't hop back and forth causing re-infestations.

Other rashes that are common include eczema, hives, allergic reactions and stress rashes. Heat rashes are also common in the summer time. Rashes can look very much like each other and it is important to see a doctor or dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis. For instance, if you have eczema but aren't diagnosed properly you may not be using moisturizer twice a day which is important for your skin to heal. On the other hand, if you have a fungus, you may want to avoid certain moisturizers that can increase the rash. Some rashes are improved by sunlight and others made worse. For a heat rash you don't want to spend time in the sun and increase perspiration.

No one likes to go the doctor, but getting a correct diagnosis is key for treatment. Some rashes are tricky to diagnose and a biopsy or skin scraping may be taken. The physician will often request the lab to do a differential diagnosis where they will rule out certain other conditions. For instance, if they are testing for scabies it may say rule out neurodermatitis. Even with a biopsy, some rashes may take a while to figure out the correct treatment.

Many skin rashes will be prescribed some form of cortisone to deal with the inflammation and a prescription cream or oral medication for the rash itch. Follow the instructions as cortisone and prednisone should be tapered off properly and not just discontinued cold turkey. It can be frustrating having a rash and dealing with the side effects so also build your immune system with good nutrition and rest.