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When Does a Skin Rash Warrant Prompt Medical Evaluation?

Premier Dermatology Partners® Blog When Does a Skin Rash Warrant Prompt Medical Evaluation?
When Does a Skin Rash Warrant Prompt Medical Evaluation?

Most rashes come and go. If your rash spreads all over your body, forms a bulls-eye, or causes pain, blistering, or difficulty breathing, it’s time to visit a doctor. 

Joshua M. Berlin, MD, and our knowledgeable dermatology team treat medical and cosmetic issues, such as rashes, at our Boynton Beach, Florida office.

Rash decisions

 While many rashes appear out of nowhere, often due to exposure to an irritant, others may stem from serious underlying causes. Dr. Berlin recommends seeing a doctor promptly if your rash:

 If your rash spreads rapidly, it may indicate a severe allergic reaction and require a trip to the emergency room. Other emergencies include extensive red streaks, which may signal an allergic reaction that you should address promptly.

Other rashes requiring medical attention

 While you should trust your instincts, Dr. Berlin finds certain rashes worthy of a doctor’s visit; these include: 

All over rash

When a rash covers most of your body, the source may be: 

These should be dealt with promptly to avoid spreading them to others.

Fever

If a fever accompanies your rash, it may also indicate a contagious disease, such as scarlet fever, or a reaction to medication. Either way, it’s worth a trip to the doctor for a diagnosis.

Anaphylaxis

Trouble breathing, with or without hives or rash, may signal anaphylaxis, which can become lethal. It may also cause a swollen tongue, dizziness, nausea, and other symptoms. Prompt treatment is essential.

Blistering

Various illnesses, such as shingles and chickenpox, cause blistering rashes. Blistering may also be due to a life-threatening reaction to a specific drug. Either way, a doctor’s visit is in order.

Signs of infection

When a rash breaks open, it may put your underlying tissues at risk of bacterial infection.

Shingles, chickenpox, eczema, and psoriasis often lead to secondary infections, which a doctor should address.   

Swelling

Bruising and swelling may indicate a staph infection, which needs swift attention. Autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, which creates a butterfly-type rash across your nose and cheeks, also require attention.

If your rash doesn’t fade after a few days, blisters, or causes pain, it’s best to visit the doctor for diagnosis and care.

Tests and treatments

Dr. Berlin discusses your medical history and examines your rash. He may also use tests to distinguish the cause, such as:

 Dr. Berlin uses a variety of medications to treat your rash, from topical medication containing cortisone or steroid ingredients to corticosteroid injections that help relieve all-over itching and redness. He’ll also show you how to clean the area. When blistering is involved, we may provide an antiseptic bandage to control the infection. 

If a suspicious rash causes concern, or you’d like to discuss other medical or cosmetic issues, contact our expert team by phone or the online form today. 

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