Rash on Elbows

There are many reasons that may result in an elbow rash. It can be due to an allergy, due to some sort of clothing or due to a specific condition. The important thing one needs to do when suffering from elbow rashes, is to first soothe the rash to reduce inflammation of the rash. Secondly it is important to follow the treatment regimen faithfully to completely heal the rash. With simple home remedies one can get rid of most skin rashes, however if the condition worsens then it is imperative that you consult a dermatologist (skin doctor).

Causes
It is important to identify the cause of the elbow rash, so that one can follow the appropriate treatment. One can find out if the cause of the rash is due to an allergy or clothing easily. But, if one has got rash on elbows due to a specific condition, then a physical check-up from the dermatologist is necessary. Here is a list of the causes of elbow rash.

• Allergies to medicine, cosmetics, food or clothing
• Allergic reaction to poison oak, ivy or sumac
• Rash due to friction with clothing, elbow pads or other surface
• Rash due to insect bites
• Inner elbow rash due to sweating
• Specific skin disorders like eczema, psoriasis, infection, shingles, etc.

Symptoms
The symptoms of elbow rash include the following:

• Red colored rash
• Itching which can be mild or severe
• Red patch resembling a burn
• Blisters and fluid oozing out from the rash in severe cases
• Dry skin of the patch sometimes accompanied with peeling skin
• Pain or tenderness in the affected area

Treatment for the Elbow Skin Rash
Given below is a list of home remedies which provide relief from the rash. If these remedies do not provide relief then seek medical help.

Home Remedies
The most important thing when dealing with a rash is not to scratch it. Scratching will only aggravate the condition. Scratching in case of blisters will spread the rash to other skin areas and therefore avoid the same.

• Wash the affected area with cool water. If you wish to use soap, then do not use any harsh soap but mild cleansers. Do not wash the affected area more than 2 times in a day.
• If the affected area is itching too much, then apply ice compress to it. You can apply ice compress after every 1 or 2 hours, to soothe the elbow rash.
• To soothe the affected area, cut a leaf of aloe vera lengthwise, and apply the gel on the rash. Keep applying aloe gel 2 - 3 times a day. Aloe works very well to soothe burns, inflammation, rashes, dry skin, etc.
• Before going to bed, apply olive oil to elbow skin rash, with a cotton swab.

When to Seek Medical Help
Seek medical help in the following cases:

• If the rash is not healing within a week of using the home remedies.
• If the skin is painful.
• If you suspect that the affected skin area is infected.
• If you are showing severe symptoms like fever, severe itching, blisters with pus, along with the rash.
• If the rash is uncomfortable, and hinders with your sleep or daily activities.
• If the rash is spreading to nearby areas.

By following the above home remedies for elbow rash, you will get relief within 2 - 3 days. However, contact a dermatologist if the rash persists.