Rashes on the body are a common occurrence for people of all ages. They can appear suddenly or develop gradually.
The causes of rashes are varied and include both harmless and serious illnesses. Most often, they signal health problems. Rashes can be the result of an allergic reaction.
For example, food allergies often cause redness and itching. Some people experience rashes after taking medications. In other cases, infectious diseases such as measles, chickenpox, or rubella can be the cause. Rashes can also be caused by fungal infections. Rashes are often accompanied by itching, burning, or peeling of the skin.
One of the common causes of rashes is dermatitis. There is contact dermatitis, which is caused by contact with an irritant. Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. Another common form of rash is urticaria. It manifests itself in the form of blisters and is accompanied by severe itching. Children often have rashes due to viral infections. In adults, they can be a symptom of autoimmune diseases. Psoriasis also causes characteristic plaques on the skin. Sometimes rashes indicate problems with internal organs. For example, skin changes may appear with liver and kidney diseases.
Hormonal imbalances are another possible cause of rashes. This is especially true in adolescence and during pregnancy. Rashes can be localized on any part of the body. Some affect the face, others – the back, abdomen, limbs. The type of rash can vary: spots, blisters, papules, nodules. Diagnosis requires a consultation with a dermatologist. The doctor may prescribe blood tests, skin scrapings, or allergy tests. It is very important not to self-medicate. Incorrect use of creams and ointments can worsen the situation. To eliminate rashes, it is necessary to treat the underlying disease.
Sometimes eliminating allergens and following a diet helps. Antibiotics are used for bacterial infections. Antifungal drugs are effective for mycoses. If the rash is viral in nature, antiviral drugs are prescribed. Antihistamines are also used to relieve itching. Local remedies – ointments and creams – reduce inflammation. It is very important to maintain skin hygiene. The use of hypoallergenic cosmetics reduces the risk of irritation. Tight synthetic clothing should be avoided. It is also important to strengthen the immune system. Chronic skin diseases may have periods of remission and exacerbation. It is important to see a specialist regularly. Sometimes you will need the help of a gastroenterologist, allergist or endocrinologist. Remember that the skin is a mirror of the health of the entire body.