Skin Dermatitis and Skin Rashes

Dermatitis Skin Rashes

Rashes on the skin are very common.  Most everyone has experienced one at one point or another.  The skin plays a vital role in the health of our bodies.  It is our first defense, but it is also vulnerable to the elements.  Rashes can be caused by external irritants or by certain illnesses or diseases. 

The majority of rashes are not caused by disease.  Most of them are actually a form of dermatitis.  It is generally characterized by a localized inflammation or redness.  Dermatitis is caused by an allergy or skin irritant.  It tends to be extremely itchy.  Scratching may cause oozing and crusting over the rash and even infection.

A lot of different things can cause dermatitis.  One common one is exposure to certain plants such as poison ivy, poison oak or poison sumac.  Some people get dermatitis from certain metals in their jewelry.  It is often caused by chemical ingredients in makeup and other personal care products or detergents and cleaners.  Food allergies can cause dermatitis as well.  It is common for children to have food allergies, but food allergies can actually start at any age. 

Most dermatitis rashes can be treated at home with antihistamines such as Benadryl or topical ointments such as hydrocortisone cream.  If a rash gets worse or does not clear up in a reasonable period a doctor should be consulted.  If there is difficulty breathing or a person’s throat begins to close, you should seek immediate help.  It is important to determine what allergen is causing a rash.  Allergic reactions can get worse ever time you are exposed to the same allergen.  Over time a reaction that was only mild the first few times might become dangerous.