Rashes on the skin can be caused by a variety of factors, including allergies, infections, irritants, and underlying medical conditions. Some common causes of skin rashes include:
- Allergic reactions: Allergies to foods, medications, or environmental factors like pollen, pet dander, or insect bites can cause skin rashes.
- Infections: Viral, bacterial, and fungal infections can all cause skin rashes. Common examples include chickenpox, shingles, impetigo, ringworm, and athlete’s foot.
- Irritants: Exposure to harsh chemicals, soaps, detergents, and fabrics can cause skin rashes.
- Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like psoriasis and lupus can cause chronic skin rashes.
- Insect bites: Mosquito, flea, and tick bites can cause skin rashes, as can contact with plants like poison ivy and poison oak.
Treatment for skin rashes depends on the underlying cause. Mild rashes may be treated with over-the-counter creams or ointments, while more severe rashes may require prescription medications. It’s important to see a doctor if a rash is accompanied by other symptoms like fever, pain, or swelling, or if it does not improve after a few days.
You can consult with our family doctors.