The average adult skin covers an impressive 22 square feet, making it the human body’s largest organ. Your skin is also your body’s first line of defense against whatever the world can throw at it.
So, anytime a skin rash develops, it’s a good idea to take notice because it’s your body’s way of responding to danger. Although some rashes come and go without incident, there are times when a skin rash requires a higher standard of care.
For some best practices when it comes to skin rashes, the experienced team of dermatology experts here at Orange Coast Dermatology pulled together the following information.
Reactive rashes that develop quickly are often due to allergies, and there is no shortage of people with allergies in the United States — one in three adults and one in four kids have seasonal allergies, eczema, or food allergies.
Among the most common allergic reactions are skin rashes. If you routinely develop rashes that come on quickly, and then go away, we want you to come see us so that we can zero in on the trigger.
Please note that if you suddenly develop a rash and also have trouble breathing, this is a medical emergency. and you need to call 911 immediately.
If you have a rash that continues to spread, we want to take a look. Spreading rashes can be caused by a number of things, from contact dermatitis to poison oak exposure. By seeking our help, we can stop the spread of the rash and get it going in the other direction.
If there is any pain associated with your skin rash — it develops blisters, it burns, or it’s painful to the touch — it’s always a good idea to seek our help. After identifying the underlying cause of your rash, we can supply you with ointments and treatments that can improve your comfort.
If your skin rash becomes infected — perhaps you notice redness, pus, or you have a low-grade fever — please come see us so that we can take a look. The rash is one thing, but when it becomes infected, it means that harmful bacteria are invading the rash.
If your skin rash is circular or has a distinct shape, this warrants medical evaluation. Tick bites that lead to Lyme disease often feature a red circle. Ringworm also leads to a circle in your skin. Our point here is that if you notice something odd about your rash, have us check it out.
Ultimately, let common sense be your guide, but we do urge you to err on the side of caution when it comes to skin rashes. Intervening in the early stages of a rash is far preferable to letting a rash run riot on your skin.
For expert care of your skin rash, please contact one of our offices in Rancho Santa Margarita, Orange, or Mission Viejo, California, today to schedule an appointment.
