Rashes

Rashes are one of the most familiar skin issues, and figuring out what’s causing them can be as frustrating as the rashes themselves. Whether you need quick relief or answers, turn to the experts at United Family Physicians in Glendora, California. Khanh Thai, DO, and Paul Moya, DO, can determine the underlying cause of rashes to treat them most effectively and prevent a recurrence. Schedule your evaluation today by calling or booking online, and get relief from the lingering itching and redness of rashes.

What are rashes?

Rashes impact your skin and often spread. They look like patches of red, inflamed, dry, bumpy, itchy, or rough skin and may be painful.

Many factors can contribute to a rash, including viruses and allergies, so it’s not always easy to know how to respond to a rash without it getting worse. You can rely on your United Family Physicians provider to find the cause, prevent complications, and ease your discomfort.

What can cause skin rashes?

Risk factors for developing a rash or worsening symptoms include:

• Allergies
• Asthma
• Bacteria
• Eczema
• Extreme temperature changes
• Poison ivy
• Psoriasis
• Skin irritants
• Viruses

Your provider aims to pinpoint the underlying cause of your rash so they can tailor your treatment to meet your needs and ensure faster relief.

What are the symptoms of rashes?

A rash can have any of the following symptoms:

• Blistering
• Blotchy skin
• Burning
• Dry skin
• Flaking
• Hives
• Irritation
• Itching skin
• Painful skin patches
• Red bumps
• Scaling
• Skin inflammation
• Stinging
• Swelling

Most people have a rash at some point, but those most susceptible include anyone with a weakened immune system, infants, and children.

How is the cause of a skin rash diagnosed?

Your United Family Physicians doctor starts with a thorough skin examination and discusses your medical history, other symptoms, medications, and lifestyle.

They may collect a small biopsy if they suspect a virus or if bacteria is responsible for the rash, they may try patch testing, skin prick tests, or other allergy tests. Lab tests check for any specific skin diseases.

How are rashes treated?

Your treatment plan varies depending on the root cause of your skin rash. Your doctor might suggest one or more of the following solutions:

• Allergy medications
• Anti-inflammatory creams
• Immunosuppressants
• Oral steroids
• Steroid creams
• Topical immunomodulators

You can also try soaking in a warm, soothing bath to ease itching and irritation. Your provider can recommend prescription and at-home remedies and will follow up to ensure your treatment works as it should.

To prevent future rashes, you can:

• Avoid known irritants, such as harsh soaps or chemicals
• Minimize allergen triggers, like poison ivy or nickel
• Don’t share personal items or clothing with others
• Use gentle (hypoallergenic) moisturizers and cleansers

Whether you’re suffering from a rash now or experience them often, get started with a rash evaluation at United Family Physicians today. You can contact the office or schedule your consultation via online booking.