When a rash appears, it can sometimes be a bit unsettling. There are so many sources of skin rashes, including allergies, heat exposure, medical disorders and infection, that it’s important to get a medical opinion. Sometimes, a rash can be the symptom of a larger issue that could impact other systems in your body. At Delta Urgent Care, we can help you diagnose your rash.
Always remember, if your rash is persistent or accompanied by other symptoms like fever, you should come see us. These are some of the most common skin rashes that affect adults.
Seborrheic dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is the most common type of adult rash in the U.S. This is a chronic, but mild skin condition resulting in flaky, scaly, or red skin. It occurs mostly on the scalp, face, and behind the ears, but can occur in other areas like the back or chest. It’s believed to be caused by overgrowth of yeast on the skin along with increased oil production, but the exact cause is unknown.
Atopic dermatitis
You may know this by it’s more common name: eczema. This long-term skin disorder flares up and subsides, causing patches of inflamed and itchy skin on may parts of the body including face, neck, abdomen, back, and limbs. This condition can result from exposure to allergens or irritants, eating certain foods, stress, or quick changes in temperature.
Contact dermatitis
Just like it sounds, this type of rash results from direct contact with a substance you are allergic to. It produces a very itchy and red rash, occasionally blistering or weeping. Common causes are irritants like latex, nickel and poison ivy (read our blog on poison plants here).
Stasis dermatitis
The results of poor circulation, stasis dermatitis appears as irritated and/or darkened skin, most often around the ankles or your lower leg. It is often accompanied by varicose veins.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis can run a range from just being a nuisance to being severely dehbilitating, often following a pattern of flaring up and subsiding. Bumpy and scaly patches of skin appear, many times dry and even painful. There is some evidence that the inflammation caused by psoriasis can be associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Topical medication and other pharmaceutical therapies have been known to reduce and even prevent symptoms.
Rosacea
This is a common adult skin disorder, resembling acne in appearance. Rosacea flare-ups usually occur when you eat certain foods, use certain skincare products with harsh ingredients, sun exposure, and even changes in temperature. You can reduce and prevent symptoms by avoiding the source of your flare-ups.
Heat rash (Miliaria)
During hot or humid weather, sweat flow can become obstructed resulting in heat rash. This common rash can be caused by overexposure to the heat or humidity, overdressing, or wearing tight fitted clothing. You may see small red bumps and also experience a stinging sensation. Wear loose or lightweight clothes or just limit your exposure to excessive heat.
Drug rash
Medications can cause drug rashes as a side effect or allergic reaction. You will most often see these rashes start within the first week of taking a new medication, but some oral medications can cause a flare up at any time. There will be red spots or splotches covering many large areas of the body. Discontinuing use of the drug and it will usually clear up on its own.
