4 Signs Your Rash Needs Treatment

Rashes can develop anytime, anywhere, and for a range of reasons. You could develop one after accidentally touching the wrong plant, or it might be a sign of a serious health problem.

So, how do you know when your rash is severe enough to warrant medical attention?

That’s what our board-certified dermatologists at Sanford Dermatology are discussing in this month’s blog. Here are four signs your rash needs more than simple home remedies can offer.

1. Your rash is spreading or not improving

Rashes that start and spread suddenly or cover most of your body usually indicate a severe allergic reaction — some of which could be life-threatening. By the same token, if your rash hasn’t improved in a few days, gets worse, or you can’t seem to manage it at home, it’s time to have our specialists take a look.

2. Your rash is accompanied by other symptoms

Fever is one of the most troublesome accompanying symptoms of a rash. It often means an underlying infection, such as measles, mononucleosis, scarlet fever, or shingles.

We’re also concerned if you have joint pain along with your rash. A rash plus joint pain is a tell-tale sign of conditions like lupus, psoriatic arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis.

You should also have us evaluate your rash if there are blisters or open sores, which can hint at an autoimmune condition or viral infection.

Symptoms that warrant an ER visit

Please note that sudden rashes that spread quickly and trigger throat swelling, wheezing, or difficulty breathing usually indicate anaphylaxis, and you should call 911 or go directly to the nearest emergency department.

3. Your rash seems to be infected

Rashes are often itchy, but excessive scratching can lead to infection at the rash site. Get help for your rash if you notice crusting, red streaks near the rash, swelling, tenderness, warmth, or pus.

4. Your rash is causing pain

Some rashes are a nuisance as they heal and subside, while others can be significantly painful. If your rash is causing pain, you likely have a viral infection, such as shingles or genital herpes.

Treatment solutions for your rash

Thankfully, most rashes are easy to treat, especially if we intervene in the earliest stages. We thoroughly examine your rash and review your medical history and symptoms before making a recommendation. Depending on the underlying cause, you may benefit from one or more of the following treatments:

Antibiotic, antiviral, or antifungal medications
Clinical-grade sensitive skin moisturizers
Allergy shots (immunotherapy)
Antihistamine medications
Topical or oral corticosteroids
Anti-itch creams

We also discuss potential triggers, how to avoid them, and how to manage underlying health conditions with your primary care provider to prevent future rashes.

Do you have a concerning rash?

If you suspect your rash is more than an itchy eye sore, don’t wait to seek help. Call or click to schedule a visit at your nearest Sanford Dermatology office in Sanford, Pittsboro, or Lillington, North Carolina, today.