What are some common skin rashes? What causes skin rashes? How are skin rashes treated?

Skin Rashes: Overview

A skin rash is any area of irritated or swollen skin on the body. Rashes can be itchy, painful, and appear differently on various skin tones. While often described as red, rashes on darker skin may present as purple, gray, or white. Rashes can stem from a wide range of causes, from insect bites to serious conditions like drug allergies. Seeking medical attention is advisable if home remedies do not help or if other concerning symptoms arise, such as fever or dizziness.

22 Common Skin Rashes

There are numerous potential causes of skin rashes. Here are 22 common types, along with pictures and descriptions:

Fleabites

Fleabites typically appear as small, itchy red bumps, often in clusters on the lower legs and feet. On darker skin tones, the bumps may appear more plum-like in color. Symptoms typically begin immediately after being bitten.

Fifth Disease

Fifth disease is a viral illness caused by parvovirus, which can lead to a distinctive “slapped cheek” rash. Symptoms include headache, fatigue, low fever, sore throat, runny nose, diarrhea, and nausea. Children are more likely than adults to experience the rash, which may be less noticeable on darker skin tones.

Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that cycles through periods of flare-ups and remission. Triggers can include spicy foods, alcohol, sunlight, stress, and the bacterial species Helicobacter pylori. Subtypes of rosacea encompass a wide range of symptoms, such as facial flushing, raised red bumps, and skin sensitivity. On darker skin, the rash may appear as brown or yellowish-brown bumps with a dusky coloration.

Impetigo

Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection most common in young children. It often appears around the mouth, chin, and nose as an irritating rash with fluid-filled blisters that easily pop, forming a honey-colored crust. On darker skin, the rash may appear brown, purple, or gray.

Ringworm

Ringworm is a fungal infection that presents as itchy, circular scaly patches with raised borders. The center of the ring appears clearer, while the edges may spread outward. On lighter skin tones, the patches appear pink or red, while on darker skin they may be gray or brown.

Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is a skin rash that appears hours to days after contact with an allergen or irritant. It has visible borders and typically appears where the skin touched the offending substance. On lighter skin, it can appear red, while on darker skin it may be less noticeable. Blisters that weep, ooze, or become crusty, as well as itchiness, scaliness, or rawness, are common symptoms.

Allergic Eczema

Allergic eczema may resemble a burn and is often found on the hands and forearms. The skin is itchy, scaly, or raw, and may have blisters that weep, ooze, or become crusty. On lighter skin, it can appear red, while on darker skin it can cause darker brown, purple, or gray patches.

Other Common Skin Rashes

In addition to the rashes described above, other common skin conditions include:

• Hand, foot, and mouth disease: Painful blisters in the mouth and on the palms, soles, and buttocks. May appear skin-colored or grayish-brown on darker skin.
• Diaper rash: Red, wet, and slightly lighter or darker than typical skin color, often warm to the touch.
• Eczema: Dry, rough, flaky, inflamed, and irritated skin. On darker skin, it can appear as darker brown or gray patches.
• Psoriasis: Dry, scaly plaques on the skin that are immune system-mediated and genetically influenced.

Treating Skin Rashes

The treatment for skin rashes depends on the underlying cause. Home remedies like over-the-counter creams, antihistamines, and avoiding irritants may be effective for mild cases. More severe or persistent rashes may require prescription medications or other medical interventions. Seeking professional medical advice is recommended, especially if the rash is accompanied by concerning symptoms or does not improve with self-care.

Conclusion

Skin rashes are a common and often frustrating experience, with a wide range of potential causes. Understanding the various types of rashes, their symptoms, and appropriate treatments can help individuals manage their skin health and seek the right medical care when necessary. By being proactive and seeking professional guidance, individuals can address skin rashes effectively and maintain overall skin wellness.

22 Common Skin Rashes, Pictures, Causes & Treatment

A rash is any area of irritated or swollen skin on your body. Rashes are often itchy and painful and can appear differently on different skin tones. While they are often described as red, on darker skin tones, they may be purple, gray, or white.

Rashes have a variety of causes, from bites to chickenpox to serious conditions like drug allergies. Seek medical attention if home remedies do not help or if you also have symptoms such as fever or dizziness.

There are many different causes of rashes. Here’s a list of 22 potential causes with pictures.

Fleabites

Share on PinterestFlea bites of the lower leg causing red bumps and scabbing. Angela Hampton Picture Library / Alamy Stock Photo

• usually located in clusters on the lower legs and feet
• itchy, small red bumps on lighter skin tones and more plum-like in color on darker skin tones
• symptoms begin immediately after being bitten

Read the full article on fleabites.

Fifth disease

Share on PinterestFifth disease is a viral illness caused by parvovirus, which can cause a ‘slapped cheek’ rash. Kardelen Yang?n Via Wikipedia

• symptoms include headache, fatigue, low fever, sore throat, runny nose, diarrhea, and nausea
• children are more likely than adults to experience a rash
• round, bright red rash on the cheeks, but it may be less noticeable on darker skin tones
• usually after the face rash, a lacy-patterned rash may appear on the arms, legs, and upper body and might be more visible after a hot shower or bath

Read the full article on fifth disease.

Rosacea

Share on PinterestWeinkle, A. P., Doktor, V., & Emer, J. (2015). Update on the management of rosacea. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology, 8, 159–177. https://doi.org/10.2147/CCID.S58940

• chronic (long-term) skin disease that goes through cycles of fading and relapse
• relapses may be triggered by spicy foods, alcoholic beverages, sunlight, stress, and the intestinal bacteria Helicobacter pylori
• the four subtypes of rosacea encompass a wide variety of symptoms
• common symptoms include facial flushing, raised red bumps, facial redness, skin dryness, and skin sensitivity
• on darker skin tones, brown or yellowish-brown bumps may appear, and the rash can have a dusky coloration

Read the full article on rosacea.

Impetigo

Share on PinterestThis image also depicts impetigo on dark skin. Photography courtesy of Grook Da Oger/Wikimedia

• most common in children 2 to 5 years old, but can happen at any age
• often located in the area around the mouth, chin, and nose
• irritating rash and fluid-filled blisters that pop easily and form a honey-colored crust
• can also appear brown, purple, or gray on darker skin tones

Read the full article on impetigo.

Ringworm

Share on PinterestRingworm on the face of a child. BSIP SA / Alamy Stock Photo

• itchy, circular scaly patches with raised borders
• on lighter skin tones, the patches can appear pink or red
• on darker skin tones, the patches can appear gray or brown
• skin in the middle of the ring appears clearer, and the edges of the ring may spread outward

Read the full article on ringworm.

Contact dermatitis

• appears hours to days after contact with an allergen
• has visible borders and typically appears where your skin touched the irritating substance
• on lighter skin tones, it can appear red
• on darker skin tones, it may be less noticeable
• may have blisters that weep, ooze, or become crusty
• typically itchy, scaly, or raw

Read the full article on contact dermatitis.

Allergic eczema

• may resemble a burn
• often found on hands and forearms
• skin is itchy, scaly, or raw
• may have blisters that weep, ooze, or become crusty
• on lighter skin tones, it can appear red
• on darker skin tones, it can cause darker brown, purple, or gray patches

Read the full article on allergic eczema.

Hand, foot, and mouth disease

Share on PinterestHand-foot-and-mouth disease MidgleyDJ at en.wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

• usually affects children under age 5
• painful, red blisters in the mouth and on the tongue and gums
• flat or raised red spots located on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet
• on darker skin tones, it can be skin-colored or grayish-brown
• spots may also appear on the buttocks or genital area

Read the full article on hand, foot, and mouth disease.

Diaper rash

• located on areas that have contact with a diaper
• skin looks red, wet, and slightly lighter or darker than typical skin color
• may be warm to the touch

Read the full article on diaper rash.

Eczema

• dry, rough, flaky, inflamed, and irritated skin
• affected areas may be red and itchy
• hair loss may occur in the area with the rash
• on darker skin tones, it can appear as darker brown or gray patches

Read the full article on eczema.

Psoriasis

Share on PinterestPsoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition that causes dry, scaly plaques on the skin. It is immune system mediated, and genetics likely also play a role. Vitek2808/Shutterstock

• scaly, silvery, sharply defined skin patches
• on darker skin tones, it may look darker than the surrounding skin or it might appear purple
• commonly located on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back
• may be itchy or asymptomatic

Read the full article on psoriasis.

Chickenpox

Share on PinterestChild with chickenpox Grook da oger, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

• clusters of itchy, red, fluid-filled blisters in various stages of healing all over the body
• on darker skin tones, it can be red, the same as the natural skin tone, or a little darker; scabs can appear gray
• rash is accompanied by fever, body aches, sore throat, and loss of appetite
• remains contagious until all blisters have crusted over

Read the full article on chickenpox.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

• an autoimmune disease that displays a wide variety of symptoms and affects many body systems and organs
• a wide array of skin and mucous membrane symptoms that range from rashes to ulcers
• classic butterfly-shaped face rash that crosses from cheek to cheek over the nose
• can appear bright red on lighter skin tones
• on darker skin tones, it may appear red, brown, or darker than the original skin color
• rashes may appear or get worse with sun exposure

Read the full article on systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Share on Pinterestchatuphot/Shutterstock

• painful rash that may burn, tingle, or itch, even if there are no blisters present
• clusters of fluid-filled blisters that break easily and weep fluid
• rash emerges in a band-like pattern that appears most commonly on the torso, but may occur on other parts of the body, including the face
• may be accompanied by low fever, chills, headache, or fatigue

Read the full article on shingles.

Cellulitis

Share on PinterestCellulitis of the lower legs. TisforThan/Shutterstock

This condition is considered a medical emergency. Urgent care is required.

• caused by bacteria or fungi entering through a crack or cut in the skin
• tends to be red or pink
• it may appear less obvious on darker skin tones and can also look brown, gray, or purple
• painful, swollen skin with or without oozing that spreads quickly
• hot and tender to the touch
• might be a sign of serious infection requiring medical attention

Read the full article on cellulitis.

Drug allergy

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This condition is considered a medical emergency. Urgent care is required.

• mild to severe itchy, red rash may occur days to weeks after taking a drug
• severe drug allergies can be life threatening, and symptoms include rash, blisters, hives, racing heart, swelling, itching, and difficulty breathing
• other symptoms include fever, stomach upset, and tiny purple or red dots on the skin

Read the full article on drug allergies.

Scabies

Share on PinterestScabies is an itchy skin infestation with mites. Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

• symptoms may take 2 to 5 weeks to appear
• extremely itchy rash with small bumps that may be scaly
• raised, white, or flesh-toned lines

Read the full article on scabies.

Measles

Share on PinterestMeasles on the torso of a child phichet chaiyabin/Shutterstock

• symptoms include fever, sore throat, red watery eyes, loss of appetite, cough, and runny nose
• depending on skin tone, the rash may be red, skin-colored, or darker than the natural skin color
• the rash spreads from the face down the body 3 to 5 days after first symptoms appear
• tiny white spots with bluish-white centers on a red background can appear inside the mouth

Read the full article on measles.

Tick bite

Share on PinterestAitor Diago/Getty Images

• painless and causes only minor signs and symptoms, such as a change in skin color, swelling, or a sore on the skin
• rash, burning sensation, or blisters
• difficulty breathing, which requires immediate medical attention
• the tick often remains attached to the skin for a long time
• bites rarely appear in groups
• may look like a target, circular, expanding — 70 to 80 percent of people with Lyme disease will have this rash

Read the full article on tick bites.

Seborrheic eczema

Share on PinterestZay Nyi Nyi/Shutterstock

• yellow or white scaly patches that flake off
• affected areas may be red — though they may appear faint on darker skin tones —, itchy, greasy, yellowish or white patches
• hair loss may occur in the rash area

Read the full article on seborrheic eczema.

Scarlet fever

Share on PinterestChild with scarlet fever rash and rosy cheeks badobadop, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

• occurs at the same time as or right after a strep throat infection
• rash is made up of tiny bumps that make it feel like “sandpaper”
• bright red tongue
• people with lighter skin tones can have a bright red rash all over the body (but not on the palms of your hands and soles of your feet)
• on people with darker skin tones, it may be more difficult to see the rash, but their skin will have a sandpaper-like texture

Read the full article on scarlet fever.

Kawasaki disease

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This condition is considered a medical emergency. Urgent care is required.

• usually affects children under age 5
• red cracked lips, swollen tongue (strawberry tongue), high fever, swollen red palms and soles of the feet, swollen lymph nodes, bloodshot eyes
• can be harder to recognize on darker skin tones
• may cause severe heart problems

Read the full article on Kawasaki disease.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is one of the most common causes of rashes. This type of rash occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with a foreign substance that causes an adverse reaction, leading to a rash. The resulting rash may be itchy, red, or inflamed.

Possible causes of contact dermatitis include:

• beauty products
• soaps
• laundry detergent
• dyes in clothing
• chemicals in rubber, elastic, or latex
• poisonous plants, such as poison oak, poison ivy, or poison sumac

Medications

Taking medications may also cause rashes. They can form as a result of:

• an allergic reaction to the medication
• a side effect of the medication
• photosensitivity from the medication

Other causes

Other possible causes of rashes include the following:

• A rash can sometimes develop in the area of a bug bite, such as a fleabite. Tick bites are of particular concern because they can transmit disease.
• Atopic dermatitis, the most common form of eczema, is a rash that may be more common in people with asthma or allergies. The rash is often reddish, though it can be skin-colored or darker on people with darker skin tones. It can be itchy with a scaly texture.
• Psoriasis is a common skin condition that can cause a scaly, itchy, red, or purplish rash to form along the scalp, elbows, and joints.
• Seborrheic eczema is a type of eczema that most often affects the scalp and causes redness, scaly patches, and dandruff. It can also occur on the ears, brows, or nose. When babies have it, it’s known as cradle cap.
• Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease that can trigger a rash on the cheeks and nose. This rash is known as a “butterfly,” or malar, rash.
• Rosacea is a chronic skin condition of unknown cause. There are several types of rosacea, but all are characterized by redness and rash on the face.
• Ringworm is a fungal infection that causes a distinctive ring-shaped rash. The same fungus that causes ringworm on the body and the scalp also causes jock itch and athlete’s foot.
• Diaper rash is a common skin irritation in infants and toddlers. It can be associated with prolonged exposure to a wet diaper.
• Scabies is an infestation by tiny mites that live on and burrow into your skin. It causes a bumpy, itchy rash.
• Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin. It usually appears as a red, swollen area that is painful and tender to the touch. If left untreated, the infection causing the cellulitis can spread and become life threatening.

Causes of rashes in children

Children are particularly prone to rashes that develop as a result of illnesses:

• Chickenpox is caused by a virus, and the rash is characterized by small itchy bumps and blisters that form all over the body.
• Measles is a viral respiratory infection that causes a widespread rash consisting of itchy, red bumps.
• Scarlet fever is an infection due to group A Streptococcus bacteria that produces a toxin, causing a bright red or skin-tone-colored, sandpaper-like rash.
• Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a viral infection that can cause red lesions on the mouth and a rash on the hands and feet.
• Fifth disease is a viral infection that causes a red, flat rash on the torso, arms, and legs.
• Kawasaki disease is a rare but serious illness that triggers a rash and fever in the early stages and can lead to heart complications.
• Impetigo is a contagious bacterial infection that causes an itchy, crusty rash and yellow, fluid-filled sores on the affected area, such as the face, neck, or hands.

You can treat most contact rashes, but it depends on the cause. Follow these guidelines to help ease discomfort and speed up the healing process:

• Use mild, gentle cleansers instead of scented bar soaps.
• Use warm water instead of hot water for washing your skin and hair.
• Pat the rash dry instead of rubbing it.
• Let the rash breathe. If it’s possible, avoid covering it with clothing.
• Stop using new cosmetics or lotions that may have triggered the rash.
• Apply unscented moisturizing lotion to areas affected by eczema.
• Avoid scratching the rash because doing so can make it worse and could lead to infection.
• Apply an over-the-counter (OTC) hydrocortisone cream to the affected area if the rash is very itchy and causing discomfort. Calamine lotion can also help relieve rashes from chickenpox, poison ivy, or poison oak.
• Take an oatmeal bath. This can soothe the itchiness associated with rashes from eczema or psoriasis. Here’s how to make an oatmeal bath.
• Wash your hair and scalp regularly with dandruff shampoo if you have dandruff along with a rash. Medicated dandruff shampoo is commonly available at drugstores, but your doctor can prescribe stronger types if you need them.

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications

Talk with a healthcare professional, who may recommend OTC medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to treat mild pain associated with the rash.

Avoid taking these medications for an extended period because they can have side effects. Ask a healthcare professional how long it’s safe for you to take them. You may not be able to take them if you have liver or kidney disease or a history of stomach ulcers.

Call a healthcare professional if the rash doesn’t go away with home remedies. You should also contact them if you’re experiencing other symptoms in addition to your rash and you suspect you have an illness.

If you don’t already have a physician, you can use the Healthline FindCare tool to find a professional near you.

Go to the hospital immediately if you experience a rash along with any of the following symptoms:

• increasing pain or discoloration in the rash area
• tightness or itchiness in the throat
• difficulty breathing
• swelling of the face or limbs
• fever of 100. 4°F (38°C) or higher
• confusion
• dizziness
• severe head or neck pain
• repeated vomiting or diarrhea

Contact a healthcare professional if you have a rash as well as other systemic symptoms, including:

• joint pain
• a sore throat
• red streaks or tender areas near the rash
• a recent tick bite or animal bite

Your healthcare professional will perform a physical exam and inspect your rash. Expect to answer questions about your:

• rash
• medical history
• diet
• recent use of products or medications
• hygiene

Your healthcare professional may also:

• take your temperature
• order tests, such as an allergy test or complete blood count
• perform a skin biopsy, which involves taking a small sample of skin tissue for analysis
• refer you to a specialist, such as a dermatologist, for further evaluation

Your healthcare professional may also prescribe medication or medicated lotion to relieve your rash. Most people can treat their rashes effectively with medical treatments and home care.

Follow these tips if you have a rash:

• Use home remedies to soothe mild contact rashes.
• Identify potential triggers for the rash and avoid them as much as possible.
• Call a healthcare professional if the rash doesn’t go away with home treatments. You should also contact them if you’re experiencing other symptoms in addition to your rash and you suspect you have an illness.
• Carefully follow any treatments your doctor prescribes. Speak with a healthcare professional if your rash persists or worsens despite treatment.

Rashes are areas of irritated or swollen skin. These areas may become itchy, painful, or dry out.

Skin discoloration is a common rash symptom, which can present differently on different skin tones. Rashes may appear red or pink on lighter skin tones, while on darker skin tones they may be purple, gray, or white.

Read the article in Spanish.

Rash on Hands and Feet: Common Causes and Treatment

A rash on your limbs can result from a bacterial or fungal infection. It may also occur due to a health condition or medication. You may also experience other symptoms, including itchiness.

Rashes are earmarked by a change in the color and texture of your skin. They may have blisters, and they may itch or hurt. Rashes that break out on your hands and feet have a wide range of underlying causes.

We’ll explore some of the common conditions that cause rashes to occur on the hands and feet. We’ll also look at treatment options you can try at home, or under a doctor’s care.

Rashes on the hands and feet can be caused by environmental factors, such as irritants or allergens. They may also be the result of medical conditions or infections.

Some common causes of rashes on hands and feet include:

Hand, foot, and mouth diseas

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Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a contagious infection caused by several viruses, including the coxsackie virus. Anyone can get hand, foot, and mouth disease, although it most commonly occurs in babies and children.

This condition causes a rash on the hands and feet, as well as sores in the mouth and on the tongue. You may experience fever and a sore throat with this condition.

The hand and foot rash caused by this condition sometimes causes blistering to occur, and may be painful, but not itchy. In some instances, it may appear on the buttocks, as well.

Granuloma annulare

Granuloma annulare is a chronic, degenerative skin condition with an unknown cause. There are five recognized types:

• localized granuloma annulare
• generalized or disseminated granuloma annulare
• subcutaneous granuloma annulare
• perforating granuloma annulare
• linear granuloma

The most common type, localized granuloma annulare, causes rings of flesh-toned, red, or yellow nodules to form on the feet, hands and fingers.

These nodules are small and hard, but do not typically itch. The rings usually clear up on their own without treatment, within a few months to two years. They may, however, come back.

Granuloma annulare is more common in women than in men, and tends to occur during young adulthood.

Dyshidrotic eczema (dyshidrosis, pompholyx)

This very itchy, common form of eczema causes deep-set blisters on the palms of hands, edges of fingers, soles and sides of feet, and toes. The blisters can become large and painful, and may last for several weeks.

Dyshidrotic eczema outbreaks often coincide with seasonal allergies, during spring and summer. It’s more common in women than in men. This condition is not curable, but its symptoms can be successfully treated. It’s not contagious.

Impetigo

This very contagious, bacterial skin infection begins with an oozing rash of red sores around the mouth and nose that can be spread to the hands and feet via touch. When the sores burst, they develop brownish-yellow crusts.

The rash can be itchy, and painful. Impetigo most commonly occurs in infants and children. Itching and soreness are other symptoms.

Hand-foot syndrome (acral erythema or palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia)

This condition is a side effect of certain chemotherapy drugs used for cancer treatment. It’s earmarked by pain, swelling, and redness in either or both the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. It can also cause tingling, burning, and blisters. In severe cases, deeply cracked skin and extreme pain may occur.

Athlete’s foot

Athlete’s foot is caused by a contagious fungal infection. It usually starts between the toes, and spreads to the entire foot. This condition is earmarked by a scaly, red rash that itches.

In some instances, athlete’s foot can spread to the hands. This is more likely to happen if you pick at or scratch the rash on your feet.

Athlete’s foot is caused by keeping very sweaty feet trapped in shoes. It can also be transmitted on locker room and shower floors.

Many hand and foot rashes can be treated at home, but some require medical treatment, based on their underlying cause and severity.

There are a number of over-the-counter and at-home rash treatments that may help alleviate itching and pain, plus reduce the appearance of the rash. You may have the best success by combining several.

Home treatments include:

• topical application of over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream
• topical application of anti-itch medications containing pramoxine
• topical application of lidocaine, or other types of pain medication
• cold compresses
• oral antihistamines
• oral pain medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• cool oatmeal baths
• applying unscented moisturizing cream
• avoiding triggers, such as pollen

If you have dyshidrotic eczema: Avoid cobalt and nickel in food and in everyday items. Foods that contain cobalt include clams, fish, and leafy green vegetables. Foods that contain nickel include chocolate, soy beans, and oatmeal.

If you have impetigo: Cleaning and soaking the blisters and removing the crusts every few days may help. Cover the area with an antibiotic cream and loose dressing after treating.

If your rash does not clear up, your doctor may recommend the following:

• corticosteroid injections
• liquid nitrogen, applied directly to the rash to freeze the area and remove lesions
• oral medication to reduce immune system reactions
• light therapy using a laser
• blister draining
• antibiotics, if infection occurs

Any rash that’s painful, accompanied by fever, or looks infected should be seen by a doctor. You should also seek medical attention for a rash that doesn’t clear up easily with treatments you use at home.

Your doctor may be able to diagnose the rash visually after taking an oral history. In some instances, you may also expect diagnostic tests, such as:

• skin culture
• allergy tests
• skin lesion biopsy

If your child has a rash that does not clear up within one or two days, they should be seen by their pediatrician. This will help determine the cause of the rash, and provide relief for their symptoms.

If your child has sores in their mouth or throat that prohibit them from drinking, they should also be seen by their doctor, to avoid complications such as dehydration.

Since conditions such as hand, foot, and mouth disease and impetigo are contagious, make sure to wash your hands after caring for your child.

If you’re a cancer patient experiencing hand-foot syndrome, let your doctor know. Your doctor may be able to change the dosage or type of medication you’re taking.

Rashes on the hands and feet can be caused by a wide range of conditions. These types of rashes sometimes clear up on their own, or they are treated easily at home.

Depending on their underlying conditions, some rashes will respond better to treatments performed or prescribed by a doctor. See your healthcare provider for any rash that’s accompanied by fever or pain.

photos with descriptions” — Yandex Q

For the first time, most people experience a rash on their hands during early childhood. Perhaps many remember how, not listening to their mother, they did not wear gloves or mittens in cold weather.

As a result, they developed a small red rash on their hands in the form of red dots, which itched and hurt. The people called this rash “chicks”, the medical name is simple dermatitis. And everyone knows that if you hold your hands warm, dry for several minutes, lubricate them with baby cream, then the symptoms of this disease quickly passed.

Adults can also experience rashes due to dermatitis. The two most common are atopic and contact. Both of these dermatitis can cause a rash on the hands in the form of red dots that itches (see photo).

Causes of a rash on the hands

A rash on the hands can be caused by many things. The most common of these are:

• hormonal imbalance;
• bacterial infections;
• allergic diseases;
• beriberi;
• dermatitis;

• scabies

  ;

• effects after insect bites;
• chronic depression and stress;
• hepatitis;

• diabetes

  ;

• diseases of the digestive system;
• fungal infection, in this case, additional signs may indicate a problem: cracks and blisters between the fingers, severe itching.

The most common skin diseases are atopic dermatitis and contact dermatitis, which can be found below. Both of these conditions are characterized by the appearance of a rash on the hands.

Avitaminosis

A rash in the form of red dots on the fingers and hands may indicate a lack of vitamins and, above all, ascorbic acid, the lack of which leads to increased fragility of the capillaries.

The problem is easily solved – add to your daily diet: fresh herbs, linseed oil, fish and drink a vitamin-mineral complex to completely eliminate beriberi.

Insect bites

Bites from ticks, fleas, mosquitoes, ants, bed bugs and some other insects leave behind a rash of red dots that itches and can be painful.

In people prone to allergies, such rashes can persist for a long time, causing discomfort, and when scratching these elements, there is a risk of infection.

Infectious diseases

Red dots on the hands that itch can be the cause of any infectious disease. Typical pathologies leading to the appearance of a rash include:

• typhus;
• measles;
• scarlet fever;

• rubella

  ;

• chicken pox.

Therefore, if the hands are covered with red dots and there are other symptoms of the disease, you should immediately contact an infectious disease doctor.

contact dermatitis

The occurrence of contact dermatitis is associated with skin contact with an irritant (allergen). One of its varieties is contact with aggressive household chemicals, which is used without the use of gloves.

The main symptom of contact dermatitis is a rash on the hands. To avoid irritation from rubber, it is recommended to wear light cotton gloves under rubber gloves. Topical anti-allergic drugs (for example, fenistil-gel), hormone ointments (loratadine) help get rid of the rash.

Atopic dermatitis

If you are allergic to certain foods or medicines, skin manifestations may appear on the arms (usually in the crook of the elbows) and present as a small rash in the form of red dots. Most often, such a reaction is observed when using:

• honey;
• chocolate;
• milk;
• citrus;
• seafood;
• strawberries.

The most allergenic medicines are:

• antibiotics;
• novocaine;
• sulfonamides;
• barbiturates;
• preparations of arsenic, etc.

Atopic dermatitis is treated by dermatologists and allergists. The disease, a small and unpleasant rash on the hands, requires systemic antihistamines:

• tavegila,
• suprastin,
• Zyrteca,
• zodak),

Application of anti-allergic ointments and creams. In more severe cases, injections of drugs, hormone therapy may be required.

Pathologies of vessels and blood

The cause of a rash of this nature is most often a decrease in the number of platelets in the blood or a change in vascular permeability. Rashes are manifested by small subcutaneous hemorrhages in the wrist area. Also, bruises of various sizes may occur on the body. The general condition and well-being of a person, as a rule, is not disturbed.

Secondary syphilis

May also signal itself with a red rash on the arms. Rashes usually do not bother the patient: with

secondary syphilis

they do not itch, do not cause pain. The rash appears suddenly, then also suddenly disappears, then reappears.

This “behavior” of rashes is associated with the multiplication of the pathogen (pallid spirochete) in the patient’s blood. This rash must be dealt with by a specialist. The patient needs treatment with specific drugs under the supervision of a venereologist.

Red dots on fingers that itch

Among all diseases in which red dots appear on the fingers under the skin, scabies deserves special attention. With it, if you look closely, in addition to the fact that there are red dots under the skin on the hands, moves can be noticeable. It is in them that the female lays her eggs.

Scabies can be contracted anywhere, especially in places of public transport and while shaking hands. The increased humidity of the skin, which is observed in the hot season, contributes to infection.

How to treat a rash on the hands in the form of red dots

By themselves, red dots are not a disease, most often it is one of the symptoms. The reasons for their appearance in adults can be very different both in nature of origin and in the severity of the disease. Treatment can be carried out only after determining the nature of the appearance of the rash. Each type of disease requires an individual approach.

After the diagnosis is established and a course of therapy is carried out, in order to avoid the occurrence of relapses, it is desirable to observe the following rules:

• avoid contact with plants, objects that can cause allergies;
• refuse to eat foods that are not suitable for you;
• regularly practice personal hygiene using soaps and shower gels that contain a minimum amount of fragrances and artificial colors;
• wiping hands with wet sanitary napkins after contact with money, travel by public transport.

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Irritated skin – symptoms to look out for

Itchy skin

Itchy skin is an irritating sensation that makes you want to scratch the affected area of ​​the skin.2 The medical name for itchy skin is pruritus.3 The disease can spread as on a small area of ​​the skin, and everywhere.2 Along with this itching sensation, there are other symptoms:

• Redness4
• Rashes in a child or adult in the form of nodules, vesicles or spots4
• Dry, chapped skin4
• Thick, stretched leather4

Sometimes itchy skin can be a sign of a skin condition, such as hives.2,5 It is characterized by a red, itchy rash on your body that looks like small blisters or blisters.5 Learn more about the symptoms of hives, their treatment in adults and children, and recommended medicines can be found in the article “What is urticaria?”

Allergic skin reactions

Allergic skin reactions are an allergic reaction of your body to an irritant (allergen) in your environment. One type of skin allergy is a disease called allergic contact dermatitis. Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when your skin comes into direct contact with something that causes an allergic reaction.6 These can be fabrics or materials, such as nickel found in jewelry, or perfumes or preservatives in cosmetics.7

Signs of contact dermatitis are commonly found on the hands, arms, face and legs and include:

• Itchy skin7

• Red, bumpy and scaly skin6.7

• Tiny vesicles filled with liquid7

Skin inflammation – dermatitis

Dermatitis is the name given to inflammation of the skin.8 There are different types of dermatitis and eczema, but the most common is the atopic variant.

Symptoms of atopic dermatitis include:8

• Itching and dry skin

• Red and inflamed skin, usually near skin folds: on the elbows, wrists, under the knees, or around the neck

• Blisters and weeping skin

Some symptoms of skin diseases (urticaria, eczema, atopic and seborrheic dermatitis) can overlap, so for an accurate diagnosis and selection of drugs, consult a specialist.