Rashes are a large category of skin issues that can be caused by many different potential factors. Understanding the various causes of skin rashes can help you prevent getting a rash, and provide important information to a doctor, dermatologist, or other medical professional. Keep reading to learn more about common causes of skin rashes and when to seek medical care for a rash.
AFC Urgent Care Back Bay offers same-day diagnosis and treatment for skin rashes and skin conditions. Our team of board-certified medical providers is available 7 days a week in Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood. We accept walk-in patients and maintain short wait times so that you can get the care that you need without waiting all day. Our clinic is conveniently located for college students attending Boston College, Berklee, Boston University, Suffolk, and Emerson College. Simply walk into the clinic when it’s convenient for you, or schedule an appointment online.
Rashes Caused by Exposure To Synthetic Materials
A latex allergy is a common cause of rashes. Many people have skin that is sensitive to specific materials and chemical compounds. This can include latex, rubber, or elastic. If you notice that you are frequently experiencing rashes after coming in contact with these materials you should avoid them and use alternative materials.
Similarly, some soaps, detergents, deodorants, or cosmetic products like makeup can cause rashes and allergic reactions. If you notice rashes after using specific products it can be helpful to look into what ingredients are present in that formula and if any of those ingredients are a known allergen. That way you can avoid using not only that specific product but other products that use the same ingredients in the future. Getting a rash in the same place over and over is often a sign that you’re allergic to a synthetic material or chemical.
Rashes Caused By Plants
There are a variety of plants that are known for causing rashes and allergic reactions. The most common plant is poison ivy, which causes an itchy and blistering rash in the affected area. A common misconception is that you either are or aren’t allergic to these plants. However, many people develop allergies to plants later in life. Just because you have never gotten a poison ivy rash in the past doesn’t mean you are immune! For example, quickly brushing past the plant might not cause the same level of irritation as touching the plant for a longer period of time. It is possible to be allergic to pollens and other plants which can lead to a skin rash. Allergies to plants or pollens usually cause rashes around the arms and are very itchy.
Illnesses That Cause Rashes
There are many types of illnesses and chronic conditions that cause rashes including eczema, shingles, chickenpox, psoriasis, and even mono. Each of these illnesses presents slightly different types of rashes and often occur in tandem with other illness symptoms. Infections like Lyme disease can also lead to rashes. If you’re sick and suddenly develop a rash, you should seek medical care to diagnose what you have and receive the necessary treatment.
Other Medical Conditions That Cause Rashes
Immune system diseases like lupus and body-wide conditions like viral or bacterial infections can cause rashes. These medical conditions frequently cause other symptoms as well. Conditions such as heat rash can appear without additional symptoms and may require lifestyle changes to resolve. Although rashes can go away on their own in some cases, the sudden appearance of a skin rash can be a cause for concern. Scratching a rash can result in an infection. Identifying the underlying cause of the rash can ensure that you resolve the rash as quickly as possible and reduce the risk of the rash becoming infected.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Back Bay for Skin Rash Diagnosis & Treatment
If you notice a sudden rash on your body it is important to monitor it closely. Rashes can quickly become infected and lead to infection and scarring. At AFC Urgent Care Back Bay, our medical providers are trained to provide a rapid diagnosis for common conditions including skin rashes to help ensure that you can get rid of the rash quickly. Our clinic is conveniently located for patients in the Boston, MA area and accepts walk-in patients. We accept most medical insurance plans and low costs for self-paying patients. Simply walk into the clinic, we are open 7 days a week!
