Rash

Mohs Surgery & Dermatology Center

Dermatologists & Mohs Surgery located in Elgin, Huntley & Crystal Lake, IL

A skin rash can be mildly irritating or it can be an indication of a more serious issue. If you’re concerned about the condition of your skin, the team at Mohs Surgery & Dermatology Center in Elgin, Huntley, Crystal Lake, and Fox Lake, Illinois offer expert diagnosis and treatment of rashes and other skin conditions, whatever their cause. For a skin consultation, call or book an appointment online today.

Rash Q & A

What is a Rash?

A rash is a general term for any change in the texture, color, or quality of your skin. A rash can be a simple irritation, or it can be a sign of more serious underlying issues that may require monitoring or treatment.

Different types of rashes are characterized by their location, distribution, appearance, and timing of onset.

What are the Symptoms of a Rash?

Rashes vary widely and may involve a variety of symptoms, depending on the underlying cause. Symptoms may include:

Itchiness
Redness
Warmth
Swelling
Tenderness
Small bumps
Blisters
Dry or scaly skin
Discoloration

These symptoms may be generalized or localized, and they may come on suddenly or appear gradually over time.

What Causes a Rash?

As part of a comprehensive assessment, your dermatologist takes a health history and performs an exam of your skin. Using this information, they can determine an underlying cause and create an individualized treatment plan for you.

A rash can develop for a number of reasons, such as:

Food allergies
Insect bites
Heat
Poison ivy or oak
Contact dermatitis
Athlete’s foot
Yeast infection
Eczema or psoriasis
Acne
Shingles
Chronic skin conditions
Scarlet fever

Depending on the cause, some rashes are no need for concern and resolve on their own; others require immediate intervention.

When is a Rash Something to Worry About?

Your dermatologist should evaluate your rash as soon as possible if you have certain symptoms that may indicate a serious condition, such as:

Thick, yellow or green drainage
Sudden onset, especially after eating
Painful itching
Generalized distribution
Eye or mouth swelling
High fever
Breathing difficulty

If your rash causes difficulty breathing, comes on suddenly, or is accompanied by a fever, seek emergency medical attention immediately, as this could indicate a severe allergic reaction.

If you have any other concerning symptoms, or if your rash has not resolved on its own, contact Mohs Surgery & Dermatology Center for a thorough exam, diagnosis, and specialized treatment plan. Call or book an appointment online today.

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