A rash is a patch of irritated, swollen or red skin. While some are mild and resolve on their own, other rashes can cause severe pain or even indicate a more serious medical condition.
Berman Skin Institute is a dermatology and cosmetic surgery center with board-certified dermatologists and providers who can examine your rash or other skin concerns to provide you with a diagnosis and treatment.
When to See a Dermatologist for a Rash
Consider seeing a dermatologist if your rash is:
- Sudden and severe: A sudden rash, especially if it is widespread or includes painful blisters, can be a sign of an underlying issue.
- Accompanied by other symptoms: If you are experiencing severe swelling, fever, difficulty breathing or other serious symptoms, a provider can determine whether you are experiencing anaphylaxis or another significant condition.
- Unexplained: An unexplained rash that doesn’t happen after an obvious trigger, such as poison ivy, may be caused by a chronic condition.
- Negatively impacting your life: If your rash makes you self-conscious, keeps you from sleeping or interferes with daily life, a provider can offer treatment and pain relief.
- Getting worse: A spreading rash or one that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter remedies may require medical treatment.
Conditions a Dermatologist Can Diagnose
Sometimes, a rash doesn’t heal on its own because it is a symptom of an underlying issue. A dermatologist can diagnose conditions, such as:
- Dermatitis: Dermatitis includes conditions that cause skin inflammation due to an allergic reaction or other causes. Some types of dermatitis require medical-grade solutions.
- Eczema: This group of skin conditions can cause painful, flaking and irritated skin. Eczema can be treated with UVB light therapy, prescription medication or other treatment.
- Psoriasis: An autoimmune disease, psoriasis is a chronic condition that causes excess skin cells to grow, leading to a rash.
- Allergic reactions: Allergies to foods, medicine, scent and other substances can all cause extensive and sometimes very itchy rashes.
- Rosacea: This often cyclical condition can get worse over time, leading to red patches on the skin. Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) and other interventions can reduce the appearance and irritation of this chronic condition.
- Fungal infections: Fungal infections can happen if one of the many fungi in the environment interacts with your skin, and your immune system can’t fight off the infection. While many fungal infections resolve with over-the-counter antifungals, others may require prescription treatment.
- Pre-cancerous lesions: A rough, scaly patch of skin could be actinic keratosis, a common pre-cancerous condition caused by sun damage. While not cancer itself, actinic keratosis can sometimes develop into skin cancer if left untreated.
The Importance of Medical Care
While rashes are not usually serious, they can be a symptom of a more significant condition, and getting an early diagnosis helps you get the right treatment. Rashes can also cause flaking or redness that affects your sense of self. Treatment can make you feel more confident. It can also help soothe your skin, which not only feels better but also helps prevent scratching and infection.
Contact Us for Diagnosis and Treatment
Don’t hesitate to seek professional help for any concerning rashes. Berman Skin Institute can diagnose a range of skin conditions and offer cutting-edge treatment in our comfortable, welcoming clinic. Contact us to schedule your appointment.
