If you woke up one morning and noticed a rash on your skin, it’s natural to feel concerned. Read on to learn more…
- Shingles (Herpes zoster)
Shingles is most often seen in people aged 50 and older. Symptoms typically include a band of painful blisters on one side of the body, usually the torso. These blisters are red, filled with fluid, itchy, and tender to the touch. They may burst and then crust
over. (1)Treatment focuses on easing pain and discomfort and reducing the risk of complications, as there is no known cure. The chickenpox (Varivax) or shingles (Shingrix) vaccines are currently the most effective ways to help prevent shingles. (1) - Herpes simplex virus (HSV)
HSV can cause pain, itching, and small red or white sores around the mouth (cold sores) or in the genital area. When blisters break, they may form ulcers or scabs. However, some people with HSV do not experience any symptoms.
There is no known cure for HSV, but doctors may prescribe antiviral medications to help manage symptoms. (2)
- Body Ringworm (Tinea corporis)
Ringworm of the body appears as pink to red, circular patches with raised, scaly edges. The centres of these patches are often lighter in colour, and they are usually itchy.
- Chickenpox (Varicella-zoster virus)
Chickenpox is most common in children, although the virus can remain in the body and later reappear as shingles.
The rash starts as small, flat red spots that soon become raised, itchy blisters. It typically begins on the face and chest. (4)
After around five days of new spots spreading across the body, the rash usually starts to crust over and ease. Chickenpox generally runs its course in about 20 days. (4)
Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and, in most cases, involves home care or antihistamines. In some cases, antibiotics may be needed if a blister becomes infected. (4)
- Molluscum contagiosum
A molluscum contagiosum rash is marked by pink or white, dome-shaped lesions with a small dimple in the center. The bumps can appear anywhere on the skin except the palms or soles and are usually not painful or itchy. (5)
Molluscum contagiosum is common in children because it spreads easily through direct contact, shared items, or even swimming pools. In adults, lesions in the genital area are also common and are usually treated promptly. Otherwise, the bumps are often left to resolve on their own within two to three years. (5)
- Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD)
HFMD symptoms include red blisters that appear on the tongue, gums, inside the cheeks, and, as the name suggests, the palms and soles. The rash can be painful but is not usually itchy. Hand, foot and mouth disease is most common in young children.
Treatment is generally not needed, but medical attention should be sought if the rash stops a child from drinking fluids or if symptoms worsen after a few days. (6)
- Fifth Disease (Erythema infectiosum)
Fifth disease is common in young children and is usually not a serious condition. It typically resolves on its own within three weeks. (7)
- Pityriasis rosea
Pityriasis rosea is a common skin condition that usually clears up on its own within a couple of months. It appears as small, scaly patches that may range in colour from pink to red or dark brown.
Typically, a single “mother” patch appears first, followed by smaller clusters of “daughter” patches. (8) In some cases, a dermatologist may prescribe anti-itch creams.
- Scalp Ringworm (Tinea capitis)
Tinea capitis is a fungal infection of the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes. It can cause a dry, itchy, scaly rash and/or localized hair loss. Depending on the type of fungus, hair may break off at the scalp surface or just above it. In some cases, tinea capitis is mistaken for dandruff. (9)
Intertrigo is skin irritation that develops where two surfaces rub against each other. It commonly occurs under the breasts or within folds of the abdomen. People who sweat heavily and those with higher body fat levels are at greater risk. (10)
Symptoms include redness, itching, or general irritation. Dermatologists may treat it with skin-drying agents, antifungal treatments, or antibacterial creams. (10)
- Cellulitis
Cellulitis is a painful skin infection that can become serious if not treated properly. It is often caused by a staph infection, and some cases are harder to treat due to antibiotic resistance.
Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain, and skin that feels warm to the touch. In some cases, cellulitis can develop into blisters filled with yellow fluid and may be accompanied by swollen lymph nodes and fever. (11)
It is important to seek medical attention immediately if cellulitis is suspected, as it can lead to sepsis if left untreated.
- Impetigo
ChatGPT said:
A common skin condition in young children, impetigo is marked by clusters of small, itchy blisters that burst and form a yellow crust. It is highly contagious and can spread from one area of the body to another or between people. Preventing children from scratching can be difficult, which often worsens the spread. (12)
Impetigo is usually treated at home by gently cleaning the affected area several times a day with warm, soapy water. In some cases, a dermatologist may prescribe antibiotic creams to help prevent recurring infections. (12)
- Erysipela
Erysipelas causes a painful, raised area on the skin. The affected patch is red, firm, and warm to the touch. It most commonly appears on the face and feet. (13)
Doctors typically treat erysipelas with antibiotics such as penicillin.
- Folliculitis (S. aureus)
Folliculitis is inflammation of the hair follicle. It is usually caused by a bacterial infection, such as from exposure to hot tubs, or by an ingrown hair. It appears as small, itchy, pimple-like bumps at the base of a hair strand.
Folliculitis is typically treated with topical antibiotics. (14)