Rashes

Nearly everyone experiences a rash during their lifetime. At Integrated Dermatology of West Palm Beach in West Palm Beach, Florida, board-certified dermatologists Andrew Nesterovitch, MD, and Kathleen Herne, MD, find the root cause of rashes to determine how to best treat them and ease itching, redness, burning, and other uncomfortable symptoms. Schedule an evaluation at Integrated Dermatology of West Palm Beach by phone or online today.

What are skin rashes?

Skin rashes are inflamed, red, bumpy, itchy, dry, rough, or painful patches of skin. Numerous factors, such as dermatitis, allergens, viruses, and bacteria, can all contribute to a rash. Treatment with the experts at Integrated Dermatology of West Palm Beach eases the discomfort and helps prevent worsening symptoms or complications.

What are the symptoms of rashes?

Rashes are characterized by the following symptoms:

• Red bumps
• Itching skin
• Painful skin patches
• Irritation 
• Skin inflammation
• Dry skin
• Blistering
• Blotchy skin
• Burning
• Stinging
• Scaling
• Flaking
• Hives
• Swelling

Nearly everyone has a skin rash during their lifetime, but population groups that are more prone to rashes include infants, children, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

What can cause skin rashes?

Risk factors for developing a rash or worsening symptoms include:

• Viruses
• Bacteria
• Extreme temperature changes
• Psoriasis 
• Allergies
• Asthma
• Eczema
• Poison ivy
• Skin irritants

Your dermatologist works with you to pinpoint the root cause of your rash to develop the most effective treatment and optimize symptom relief. 

How is the cause of a skin rash diagnosed?

The experts at Integrated Dermatology of West Palm Beach examine your skin rash to help establish its cause. They also discuss your medical history, other possible symptoms, medications, and lifestyle. 

Your provider may take a small skin sample (biopsy) to detect a virus or bacteria. They may suggest skin prick tests, patch testing, or other allergy tests. Lab testing screens for the presence of certain skin diseases.

How are rashes treated?

Your personalized skin rash treatment plan depends on its cause. The Integrated Dermatology of West Palm Beach experts might suggest one or more of the following solutions:

• Anti-inflammatory creams
• Allergy medications
• Immunosuppressants
• Steroid creams
• Oral steroids
• Topical immunomodulators

Soaking in a warm bath with colloidal oatmeal may also help relieve an itchy, dry skin rash. Follow up with the Integrated Dermatology of West Palm Beach experts to ensure your treatment is effective.

Reduce the chance of future rashes by avoiding known irritants, minimizing allergen triggers, not sharing clothing or similar personal items with others, and using mild (hypoallergenic) cleansers and moisturizers. 

Schedule a rash evaluation at Integrated Dermatology of West Palm Beach by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.