Rashes

When patients are experiencing a skin rash, it is very common for them to become worried and frustrated. One of the first things people tend to do is to start looking up their symptoms on the Internet, in an attempt to self-diagnose the problem.

The best way to diagnose a skin rash is to speak with an experienced dermatologist who can study your medical history, ask you the most pertinent questions, and will rely on years of experience to diagnose and treat the condition. This is something we do at McLean Dermatology on a daily basis, and we have had the honor of helping countless patients effectively diagnose and treat their skin rashes.

If you are suffering from a skin rash, please schedule an appointment to meet with one of the expert providers at McLean Dermatology as soon as possible. You can reach us by phone at 703-356-5111, or email us through the Contact Form.

Types of Skin Rashes

When dealing with a skin rash, it’s important to understand that there are many reasons why it can occur. Rashes can look very similar to the untrained eye, but a professional diagnosis can help identify the root cause of the symptom and the best course of treatment. Here are just a few examples of common types of skin rashes that can occur:

• Rubella: This skin condition tends to start on the face, and can then spread throughout the body. This skin rash is contagious, and can be easily transmitted through contact. Rubella may also be accompanied by a slight fever.

• Eczema: This condition can often appear as a skin rash. It is characterized by red, inflamed patches of skin that can vary in color intensity, and is caused by underlying problems with skin dryness and the skin barrier. Eczema can affect individuals of all ages, and may be caused by factors like genetics and allergies, among others.

• Allergic Reaction: Skin rashes may also be a sign of an allergic reaction. In such cases, the rash may appear suddenly after eating a certain food or coming in contact with some plants or animals.

• Fungal Infection: Some skin rashes are caused by fungal infections. For example, ring worm will present as red, circular patches on the skin. This skin rash may sometimes be confused with discoid eczema, which also tends to show up in the shape that resembles a disc.

• Rosacea: This skin condition is often confused with acne, because of its recurrent nature and because it appears most commonly on the face. However, Rosacea is believed to be caused by the inflammatory response of the body. Accurately diagnosing this condition is essential for bringing the symptoms under control and reducing future recurrences.

• Shingles: This condition manifests in the form of a painful skin rash that is accompanied by blisters. Shingles is actually caused by the chickenpox virus. After having chickenpox, the virus will remain in the patient’s body, but will be dormant. From time to time, it can become active and present as a skin rash.

• Scabies: A skin rash caused by tiny itch mites, Scabies can be especially bothersome because it causes a relentless itch. Patients who visit McLean Dermatology because of Scabies often have a rash that is quite irritated because they keep scratching the area. Constant scratching can be dangerous due to heightened risk of infection. This is a highly contagious condition that should be treated right away.

Taking the Next Step

If you are suffering from a rash, it’s imperative to seek professional medical help. Although some skin rashes may resolve on their own, many such conditions need medical treatment and prescription-strength medication. Therefore, please don’t delay treatment.

To schedule your appointment, please call (703) 356-5111.

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