When should you worry about a rash?
Rashes may look alike, but while over-the-counter medications can treat some rashes, others can signal a more serious condition such as psoriasis, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) says.
“It is important to watch your symptoms closely at the onset of a new rash,” says Dr. Mallory Abate, a board-certified dermatologist in Baton Rouge, La. “Making note of any changes or new developments are instrumental to determining the severity of the medical condition and if immediate assistance is needed.”
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One key sign of bigger trouble is if you have a rash that is infected. Evidence of infection might include pus, yellow or golden crusts, pain, swelling, warmth or an unpleasant smell. The skin around an infection might look red, purple or brown, you might feel very hot or cold, have swollen lymph nodes, or a fever.
“If you have a rash and your symptoms are not improving, make an appointment to see a board-certified dermatologist,” Abate said in an AAD news release.
RELATED: 10 Signs It’s Time to See a Doctor About Your Rash
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What Causes Psoriasis Rash?
The exact cause of psoriasis is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve an abnormal immune response that leads to rapid skin cell growth. Normally, skin cells go through a cycle of growth and shedding for a month.
However, in psoriasis, this process is accelerated, with new skin cells rising to the surface in a matter of days instead of weeks. This rapid turnover results in the accumulation of cells on the skin's surface, forming the characteristic plaques.
Symptoms of Psoriasis Rash
- Red patches of skin covered with silvery scales
- Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
- Itching, burning, or soreness
- Thickened, pitted, or ridged nails
- Stiff and swollen joints (in some types of psoriasis)
Types of Psoriasis
Psoriasis can present in several forms, including:
- Plaque Psoriasis: The most common form, characterized by raised, red patches covered with a silvery white buildup of dead skin cells.
- Guttate Psoriasis: Often triggered by a bacterial infection, this type appears as small, dot-like lesions.
- Inverse Psoriasis: Affects skin folds such as the armpits, groin, and under the breasts, appearing as smooth, red patches.
- Pustular Psoriasis: Characterized by white pustules surrounded by red skin, often localized to the hands and feet.
- Erythrodermic Psoriasis: A severe and rare form that can cover the entire body with a red, peeling rash, resembling a severe burn.
Managing Psoriasis Rash
While there is no cure for psoriasis, various treatment options can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life:
- Topical Treatments: These include corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, retinoids, and coal tar preparations, which are applied directly to the skin to reduce inflammation and slow down skin cell growth.
- Phototherapy: Also known as light therapy, this treatment involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light under medical supervision. It can help slow down the rapid growth of skin cells and reduce inflammation.
- Systemic Medications: For more severe cases, oral or injected medications that affect the immune system may be prescribed. These medications can help reduce inflammation and slow down the rapid turnover of skin cells.
- Lifestyle Changes: Managing stress, avoiding triggers like certain medications, infections, and injuries to the skin, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise can help reduce flare-ups.
- Supportive Therapies: These can include moisturizers to keep the skin hydrated, gentle skincare routines to avoid irritation, and avoiding excessive scratching or picking at the plaques to prevent infection.
Psoriasis is a chronic condition that requires long-term management. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment, working closely with healthcare providers to develop a personalized treatment plan can help individuals with psoriasis effectively manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Additionally, raising awareness and understanding about psoriasis can help reduce stigma and support those living with this condition.
