Skin rashes are a common issue, with estimates indicating that approximately 20 to 30 percent of the American population experiences some form of skin rash at any given time. Rashes can arise from various causes, including allergic reactions, irritants, infections, and underlying medical conditions. The prevalence of skin rashes highlights the importance of understanding skin health and seeking appropriate treatment.
Reference: nationaleczema.org
Fortunately, much can be done to treat rashes successfully. If you or a loved one are suffering from a rash, schedule a medical examination with one of our board-certified dermatologists at Colorado Springs Dermatology Clinic, PC, in Colorado Springs, Pueblo, or Cañon City:
What can cause a rash?
A rash occurs whenever your skin cells or blood vessels aren’t working properly. There are a variety of things that can cause a rash such as:
- Eczema: These small red bumps are due to issues with your immune system.
- Contact dermatitis: This rash can occur wherever an irritant, like the wrong soap or a certain type of metal, touches you.
- Hives: If you have flat, red, itchy bumps, you might be having an allergic reaction to a food or other trigger.
- Psoriasis: These patches of thick, scaly skin are a type of immune system issue.
- Illness: Many illnesses, ranging from shingles to lupus, can cause a rash.
Reference: my.clevelandclinic.org
How can skin rashes be treated?
Treating a skin rash starts with finding out the cause of the rash. Once your doctor has an idea of what is triggering the rash, they’ll suggest a treatment. Here are some details on addressing common causes of rashes.
Eczema and Psoriasis
Usually, rashes caused by these two similar health problems get the same treatment. Corticosteroid creams will reduce swelling, itching, and other types of pain. You might also get an immunosuppressant drug that helps to calm your immune system. Additionally, your doctor might suggest light therapy for eczema or psoriasis. This uses strong rays of light to soothe immune reactions.
Dermatitis
Ultimately, treating rashes from dermatitis will focus on calming your body and fighting symptoms. Anti-inflammatory creams can help manage dermatitis rashes. Your doctor might also suggest oral steroids or immunosuppressants. Some types of dermatitis also respond well to calcineurin inhibitors or light therapy.
Allergies
If allergies are causing your rash, it’s important to avoid your triggers. However, there are treatments if you run into something that irritates your skin. Your doctor might give you a soothing corticosteroid cream to help with rashes. You can also get medicine to lower your risk of allergic reactions.
Why see a dermatologist?
A dermatologist is a special type of doctor who focuses on skin health. They have a lot of experience and expertise that can help people with rashes. Your dermatologist can often identify and treat signs of a rash more quickly than other types of doctors. Furthermore, they often have the training needed for things like laser therapy.
Our dermatology clinic locations
We offer medical dermatology at four CSDERM locations:
Central Colorado Springs
170 Parkside Dr
Colorado Springs, CO 80910
Phone: (719) 471-1763
North Colorado Springs
2060 Briargate Pkwy, Ste 150
Colorado Springs, CO 80920
Phone: (719) 471-1763
Pueblo
406 North Main St
Pueblo, CO 81003
Phone: (719) 566-0176
Cañon City
1332 Bauer Ln
Cañon City, CO 81212
Phone: (719) 275-7485