Rashes and How You Can Treat Them

A rash is an inflammatory response of the immune system that causes increased blood flow and swelling of the skin; they may or may not rashesbe itchy. Almost everyone has had a rash at some point in their lives, but if your rashes are recurring or ongoing, it's time to contact the Dermatologic Center for Excellence in the Buffalo, NY area to make an appointment with Dr. Anthony Dee. Below are some of the common causes of rashes and how they're treated.

Types of rashes

Rashes can be caused by a variety of different things. Allergic reactions are very common; the rash may appear where an allergen, such as poison ivy, has touched the skin (contact dermatitis) or a rash may go along with hay fever or other chronic allergic conditions (atopic dermatitis). Psoriasis, which is an overproduction of skin cells, causes a distinct, patchy, and intensely itchy rash to develop on the knees, elbows or scalp. Bacterial infections like impetigo or viruses such as measles can cause a bumpy, widespread rash. Side effects from medication may also produce a rash. Your Buffalo dermatologist is well trained in evaluating and diagnosing the source of rashes.

How rashes are treated

Many rashes caused by the body's allergic response clear up soon after the allergen is eliminated. For that reason, your Buffalo dermatologist may suggest avoiding whatever happens to be causing your rash, whether it's animal dander or jewelry with made with nickel. If you're unsure of what you're allergic to, a patch test can be performed that will narrow down your allergy triggers. Topical hydrocortisone cream or antihistamines like Benadryl may help calm the itching in non-infectious rashes. Steroid therapy may help in severe cases.

If you have a recurrent, bothersome rash, don't hesitate to contact us for an appointment with our dermatology professional, Dr. Dee at the Dermatologic Center for Excellence in the Buffalo, NY area. We look forward to helping you!

No Hours settings found. Please configure it
No Map settings found. Please configure it.