Rashes

What are rashes?

A rash is a patch of damaged skin. Rashes and allergies often go hand in hand. This is why the experts at ENT & Allergy Specialists of VA, PC are the best providers to help you identify and treat them. The different rashes related to allergies include:

Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, occurs when an irritant or allergen aggravates your skin. 

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is a rash that develops after your skin touches a substance you’re allergic to, like soap, perfume, or jewelry, or something that’s naturally caustic, like poison ivy.

Hives

Hives are an allergic reaction that can happen after coming into contact with or eating something you’re allergic to, like some medications, pet dander, insect stings, and certain foods.

Angioedema

Angioedema is an allergic reaction that causes below-skin swelling. While not technically a rash, angioedema and hives often happen together.

Medication rashes

Drug allergies can cause skin rashes. You might also have heightened sunlight sensitivity and become highly prone to sunburn.

Skin rashes can also develop for nonallergic reasons, like infections or illnesses like measles.

What symptoms do rashes cause?

Rashes cause skin symptoms including:

• Bumps
• Blisters
• Redness
• Blotches
• Itchiness
• Burning
• Oozing sores
• Scaliness
• Thickening

The rash site varies with the allergy and your individual reaction. Many people experience rashes on their face, arms, legs, torso, and other areas.

When should I seek treatment for rashes?

If your rash persists for a long time or keeps clearing up and then coming back, it requires diagnosis and treatment. It’s particularly important to call ENT & Allergy Specialists of VA, PC if your allergies cause severe discomfort or disrupt your life.

Ignoring a rash can have serious consequences, especially if your rash is accompanied by breathing problems. These symptoms could indicate anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition. Seek emergency treatment immediately. A rash that comes with infection, a fever, or spreads all over your body is also an emergency.

How are allergy-related rashes treated?

Allergy-related rashes require treatment specific to the allergy. You might need topical creams, oral medications, allergy shots, or other treatments to manage the underlying cause of your rash. Avoiding your allergy triggers is also an essential part of minimizing rashes.

Book your appointment online now or call ENT & Allergy Specialists of VA, PC to get help for rashes.