Types Of Rashes

What are the type of rashes? Feeling itchy? Perhaps you’ve broken out all over? Chances are, you have a rash. These can be simple allergic reactions which irritate the skin to more serious medical conditions. However, as is the case with many dermatological issues, there are many different types of rashes. Several common types of rashes include fungal infections, hives, shingles, eczema, and the annoying but harmless heat rash.

Fungal infections are types of rashes which develop in parts of the body conducive to fungal growth; that is to say, if there’s a good deal of contained moisture, there’s a good chance of developing a fungal rash. Athlete’s foot is a common example of a fungal infection, along with another big player, ringworm. These types of rashes occur so frequently because they are easily transmittable. Those who frequent gyms or public pools are more likely to pick up these types of rashes, but fortunately, they are easily treated. Antifungal creams are available over the counter, though if the rash is particularly bad, a prescription medication may be needed.

Hives are an unpleasant allergic reaction characterized by red bumps on the skin. These types of rashes are both itchy and painful, and can be caused by a reaction to certain medications, foods, or even stress. For these types of rashes, allergy tests are recommended as a preventive measure. Treatment options are typically antihistamines, which help to reduce swelling and redness by preventing the release of histamine in the body.

Shingles, unlike athlete’s foot, is caused by a viral infection-the same virus, in fact, that causes chickenpox-which produces a blister-like rash on the body. It is not transmittable to another person, but it does cause a great deal of discomfort. Often, these types of rashes are aggravated by factors such as illness or stress. Fortunately, for people who experience shingles on a regular basis, it is accompanied by notable warning signs, including flu-like symptoms. Treatment options include antivirals prescribed by a medical professional and over the counter anti-inflammatory medications.

Atopic dermatitis, or what we know as eczema, is a very tricky rash. These types of rashes have no cure and no confirmed cause. Eczema manifests on the skin through signs of dryness, flaking, cracking, and itching, though symptoms can be so severe as to involve breaking of the skin. There are many treatment options for eczema, such as lotion to moisturize the affected skin, antihistamines, topical creams, and in some cases, probiotics.

Heat rash, or ‘miliaria’ as the medical community refers to it, is a generally non-threatening rash which produces tiny and sometimes itchy bumps on the skin. These types of rashes occur when sweat becomes trapped as a result of blocked sweat glands and, as the name would suggest, often results from the being in hot environments for prolonged periods of time. Heat rashes frequently go away on their own, although for some, anti-itch creams are a tried and true treatment for these types of rashes. If the rash persists or becomes more serious, one should seek medical attention.