A rash is a skin condition where one or more areas of skin on your body suddenly become inflamed. It can make your skin look red and bumpy, and it can feel itchy and bothersome.
You might notice a combination of the following in a skin rash:
- Spots
- Bumps
- Blisters
- Pimples
- Dryness
- Cracking
Most skin rashes are harmless and go away after a few days, but others may require a medical evaluation – especially if they persist and do not respond to over-the-counter treatments, such as topical cortisone cream. Let’s talk about some of the main causes of skin rashes, and where you and your whole family can go here in Miami for expert skin rash treatment and dermatological care to keep your skin healthy for a lifetime.
What Are the Different Causes of Skin Rashes?
Some of the most common causes of a skin rash include the following:
1. Bacteria
Bacteria are single-celled microorganisms that can survive in a wide variety of environments, including extreme cold or heat. Most of them do not cause harm to your body, and some are even beneficial.
However, some bacteria can cause harmful infections. For example, cellulitis is a type of bacterial skin infection that can affect the skin particularly on your face, arms, and lower legs. It develops as a swollen, red, warm, tender rash that spreads quickly. Because cellulitis is life-threatening in some cases, it is imperative to seek professional skin rash treatment.
2. Viruses
Viruses need living hosts such as people, animals, and plants in order to survive. They are smaller than bacteria and, if you get infected with a virus, it hijacks your cells to reproduce itself exponentially.
Parvovirus infection also called fifth disease, is an example of a viral disease that causes a skin rash – usually in children. A common symptom is a bright red rash on the cheeks. A child may also experience the following symptoms:
- Fever
- Headache
- Sour stomach
- Runny nose
3. Allergies
Contact dermatitis is a common type of skin inflammation that causes an itchy, red, and painful skin rash after exposure to an irritant or allergen. The rash may take a while to develop.
Poison ivy is the most common cause of contact dermatitis. Other allergens include cosmetics, preservatives, jewelry/metal, and fragrances.
Have yourself checked by a dermatologist if your rash hurts, itches, looks infected, and does not go away for a long time.
Skin Rash Treatment in Miami, FL
If you or your child has a persistent or painful rash, seek help from a skilled dermatologist. Dr. Ana Duarte and her medical team at the Children’s Skin Center can provide proper and effective skin rash treatment for anyone in your family, and we also perform annual skin checks and treatment for everything from skin cancer to eczema.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with an experienced dermatologist here in Miami, contact our friendly staff today by calling or texting us at (305)-669-6555. We look forward to helping you and your family have healthy, glowing skin!
