Red Itchy Rash

A rash is an inflammation or irritation on the skin that can be caused due to variety of reasons. The type and severity of the rash changes according to its causes. For example, it can be dry and scaly with red patches or can have lumps or bumps or even blisters. Sometimes a person experiences other symptoms along with the skin rash which is a sign of some serious medical condition or illness. Skin rash can be caused by bacterial or fungal infections.

Causes of Itchy Rash

In majority of the cases, allergies to certain products or allergens are the most common causes of red itchy body rash. A skin allergy can be caused due to intake of specific food, exposure to certain chemicals, cosmetics, products, etc. Allergy is a non serious cause of rash on the body. Apart from that, let us have a look at the other skin disorders that cause itchy skin.

Hives
Hives, also known as urticaria, are red, itchy wheals that appear on the skin due to certain causes. The exact cause of hives are not known, however, it is believed that it is either caused die to some autoimmune disorder or due to certain food or products. Peculiarly, hives appear and disappear in specific intervals.

Eczema
Eczema is a chronic itchy inflammation of the skin. Although it can appear on any part of the body, it is prominently seen on arms, legs and knees. The cause of eczema is unknown but it is believed to be caused due to autoimmune disorder, stress or exposure to allergens. Red itchy rash on legs, scaly skin, itching, small raised bumps on skin, etc. are the symptoms of eczema.

Psoriasis
Psoriasis is also a chronic skin disease that occurs due to abnormal cell formation on the skin. As most of the above mentioned diseases, psoriasis is caused due to the over action of T cells and other trigger factors like smoking, stress and cold weather. Red rash, chest rash, scaly, silvery skin, inflammation on the skin, etc. are the symptoms of psoriasis.

Scabies
Scabies is a contagious skin disease caused by tiny itch mites. These mites are also found on the bodies of pets and can be responsible to cause scabies. As this disease is contagious, it spreads through physical contact. Itchy red rash on face, scaly skin, etc. are the common symptoms of this disease.

Ringworm
Ringworm is a contagious disease caused due to fungal infection. The infection is commonly found in toes, genitals and other joints in the body. Ringworm is highly contagious and can be easily transmitted from human beings to others and even from animals to human beings. Itchy red rash that appears in circular shape is the symptom of ringworm.

Chickenpox
Chickenpox is contagious skin disorder caused due to Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV). Chickenpox is more commonly found in infants and children than adults. All over body rash, blisters, itchiness, etc. are the symptoms of it.

Treating Rash

If a person experiences skin rash that lasts for more than a couple of days, he/she should consult the doctor immediately. Allergies of every kind can be treated with the help of medication and ointments. However, one should identify the allergen and try to avoid it. Hives can be treated with the help of medications like antihistamines, corticosteroids, etc. However, doctors advise patients to keep a diary in order to identify the trigger factors and avoid being exposed to them. Treatment of eczema also involves use of medications like corticosteroids and oral antihistamines. Psoriasis can also be treated with the help of medications and light therapy. Scabies is also treated with the help of medications. However, one needs to be more careful of this disease as it is a contagious condition. Ringworm is also treated with the help of ointments or oral medications. Chickenpox is treated with the help of medications and ointments that help in reliving itchiness and rash.

One should remember that it is essential to undertake immediate treatment in order to get rid of this condition soon, as delaying can lead to chronic cases. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a doctor if you suffer from severe rash. Take care!