Medical Health Encyclopedia

Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test Special Topic
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W Y
Poison oak rash on the arm Erythema toxicum on the foot Acrodermatitis Roseola Shingles Cellulitis Erythema annulare centrifugum - close-up Psoriasis, guttate on the arms and chest Psoriasis, guttate on the cheek Systemic lupus erythematosus rash on the face Poison ivy on the knee Poison ivy on the leg
Overview Treatment
Rashes
Alternative Names: Skin redness or inflammation; Skin lesion; Rubor; Skin rash; Erythema Home Care: Most simple rashes will improve with gentle skin care and avoiding irritating substances. Follow these general guidelines: Avoid scrubbing your skin. Use as little soap as possible. Use gentle cleansers instead. Avoid applying cosmetic lotions or ointments directly on the rash. Use warm (not hot) water for cleaning. Pat dry, don't rub. Eliminate any newly added cosmetics or lotions. Leave the affected area exposed to the air as much as possible. Try calamine medicated lotion for poison ivy, oak, or sumac as well as other types of contact dermatitis. Text Continues Below Hydrocortisone cream (1%) is available without a prescription and may soothe many rashes. If you have eczema, apply moisturizers over your skin. Try oatmeal bath products, available at drugstores, to relieve symptoms of eczema, psoriasis, or shingles. For psoriasis, you may need a prescription. You could also talk to your doctor about ultraviolet (UV) light therapy. It is safest to have such treatment under medical supervision. However, not all clinics or hospitals offer light therapy. Home units are available, but the cost is not always covered by insurance. If you do purchase a home unit, look for a device that delivers narrow band UVB light. Page:  1 | 2 | 3 | Next >>