When should you see a doctor about a rash?

A skin rash isn’t an actual diagnosis. It simply refers to inflammation or discolouration of the skin that causes symptoms such as itchiness, redness or swelling. While most rashes disappear after a few days and the irritation can be controlled by antihistamines or creams found at the chemist, some rashes persist and you may need medical attention.

What is the cause of my rash?

A skin rash can by caused by a multitude of factors some of which will be obvious and others will be more difficult to pinpoint. Some of the most common causes of rashes include:

• Insect bites and stings
• Body lice and bedbugs
• Allergies
• Reactions to grasses or plants such as poison ivy
• Skin conditions such as eczema, lichen planus, granuloma annulare, and pityriasis rosea
• Bacterial or viral infections such as chicken pox, tinea, measles and shingles
• Heat
• Stress
• Side effects of pharmaceutical drugs including antibiotics

Most skin rashes aren’t life-threatening, however there are some symptoms that can signal the rash is serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should make an appointment with your GP or go to the emergency room.

• Your rash is covering your entire body
• You have a temperature indicating an infection or allergic reaction
• You’re noticing the rash spreading quickly
• Your rash is very painful
• You’ve noticed fluid-filled blisters or open sores
• You’re seeing signs of infection such as pus, swelling, crusting, warmth or extreme pain
• Over-the-counter creams or antihistamines have failed to work
• Your rash is impairing your daily activities
• You’ve developed a rash during your pregnancy

Skin rashes can be caused by a variety of things. While some irritants may be obvious making the rash easy to get rid of, others can be persistent and difficult to treat. Home remedies such as lotions and baths or over-the-counter medication like cortisone creams and antihistamines may help to relieve the symptoms.

However, if your rash is highly irritating or simply doesn’t go away, you should make an appointment with your GP sooner rather than later.

Next steps

HealthEngine can help you find and book an appointment with your regular GP or another experienced professional at a practice near you.

• Find your GP and book an appointment
• Book an appointment with a new GP

Links

• Health Direct – Skin conditions
• Better Health Channel – Skin
• MedlinePlus – Rashes
• Wikipedia – Rash

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. If in doubt, HealthEngine always recommends consulting with a registered health practitioner.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. If in doubt, HealthEngine recommends consulting with a registered health practitioner.