![Poison ivy can be a nightmare to those affected by it. [image source: Extreme Deer Habitat/YouTube screenshot]](https://staticr1.blastingcdn.com/media/photogallery/2018/3/15/660x290/b_502x220x82/poison-ivy-can-be-a-nightmare-to-those-affected-by-it-image-source-extreme-deer-habitatyoutube-screenshot_1890223.jpg "Poison ivy can be a nightmare to those affected by it. [image source: Extreme Deer Habitat/YouTube screenshot]")
A rash is any sort of skin inflammation or discoloration that distorts the normal appearance of the skin.
Causes of skin rashes
- Bacterial, fungal, or viral infections
- A chronic skin condition
- Contact with an allergen
Most rashes are minor but other types can signal serious complications. You should always have your travel medicine with you if you usually have allergic reactions.
Common skin rashes presented to primary care clinics, emergency departments, and dermatologists include the following.
1. Athlete’s foot
Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that causes the feet to peel, itch, and turn red.
It also presents as sores and blisters. This condition is contagious and can be passed to another person through direct contact.
It is treated with over-the-counter antifungal cremes and doctors can prescribe medication in severe cases. The sufferer is advised to keep their feet and the inner parts of their shoes dry. As a preventative measure, people are advised not to walk barefoot near pools and locker rooms.
2. Shingles
Shingles, a complication of the herpes virus, make the skin burn, itch, and tingle. They can appear anywhere on the skin. An outbreak can last for several weeks. Its treatment includes skin creams, antiviral drugs, steroids, and in some cases anti-depressants. Seeking early treatment helps to prevent residual pain.
3. Hives
Hives usually resemble welts but they itch and burn. Their sizes vary and sometimes they join together. They are caused by extreme temperatures, infections such as strep throat, and allergies to medications and food. Antihistamines and skin creams help to soothe the pain. It is recommended that people with allergic reactions get some travel medicine and carry it at all times.
4. Psoriasis
Signs of psoriasis include thick, red skin patches covered with white scales. These patches can be found on the elbows, knees, lower back and scalp. Treatments include skin ointments, light therapy, oral medicines, injections and IV.
5. Eczema
Eczema describes several non-contagious conditions that manifest through red, inflamed, and itchy dry skin.
What triggers this condition include stress, irritants, allergens, and climate change. It often appears in skin folds, elbows, and palms. According to the Daily Telegraph, more than 35,000 had suffered eczema in Australia this year alone. Treatment of eczema includes oral medication, ointments, and injections.
6. Rosacea
Some signs of Rosacea include:
- Redness on nose, chin, cheeks or forehead.
- Appearance of blood vessels.
- Thickened skin
- Bumps and pus-filled pimples.
Treatment for Rosacea includes skin ointments, oral medications, and laser treatments for the broken blood vessels and red skin.
7. Poison ivy, oak, or sumac
These rashes are as a result of contact with the oily coating from plants such as poison ivy, oak, or sumac.
Signs start with redness and swelling of the affected area followed by itching. Blisters form within 12-72 hours after contact with the plant. This rash usually looks like a red line and the outbreak lasts for two weeks. Treatment includes oral medicine and skin ointment.According to inside science.org there is a possibility that marijuana may help solve skin rash or sting.
