skin rash

synonym

Rash

definition

Under a rash or Rash one understands constant or regressive, painful, itchy or symptom-poor skin irritation of various causes.

causes

skin rash (lat. exanthem) can many causes to have. These range from harmless causes and infectious diseases to malignant diseases that can also express themselves through the skin.

Harmless causes

Skin rashes can occur even with the smallest changes in habits, especially in particularly sensitive people. For example, a skin reaction can occur if the shower gel is changed, a new detergent is not tolerated or the fabric of the new clothing irritates the skin.
In principle, the rash should be observed and examined more closely, even if the cause is supposedly harmless.

Also read: Detergent allergy

Allergies

Allergies are very often the cause of skin rashes of all kinds. Triggering factors are, for example. Medication, Animal hair, House dust, Plants / pollen, food and Chemicals. With very strong reactions to the triggering agent, it can lead to Hives (Urticaria), in which large, fluid-filled wheals form on the skin.

Exposure to sunlight

An increased sensitivity to sunlight exposure can also lead to a skin rash (sun allergy). Sunburn itself is also a form of rash.

Read more on the topic: Rash from sun

Skin disorders

A number of skin diseases cause severe skin rashes. The most famous diseases are Neurodermatitis, psoriasis (psoriasis) and particularly acnewhich occurs on all parts of the body, but preferably on the face, back and décolleté.

stress

Everyone reacts differently to stress, some get it a headache, others sleep poorly and with still others the stress manifests itself in the form of Skin reactionswhich in turn can vary greatly.
There is no rule for this that one gets reinforced Pimples, others tend to Eczema.
For people who are already struggling with skin problems, increasing stress can have a decisive reinforcing function.
Hereditary ones are examples of such diseases psoriasis, also as psoriasis known, and Neurodermatitis.
Even if there have been no problems for years, you can Neurodermatitis by stress triggered again.
Also the Hives can be ascribed to a significant psychological factor, in some cases this is up to 80%. However, a rash does not necessarily have to be seen, for many skin problems express themselves simply in the form of severe itching. This occurs especially with people who generally get too very dry skin tend.

Infectious diseases

Infectious diseases that can cause rashes include rubella, measles, scarlet fever, chickenpox, shingles, scabies, syphilis and also HIV.
The appearance of the rashes can differ significantly. With chickenpox, itchy blisters are in the foreground, while measles manifests itself primarily as red, larger and confluent spots.

Read more about the topic here:

• Rash indicative of HIV infection
• Blistered rash
• Scarlet fever rash

This makes it possible to draw conclusions about possible causes based on the morphology of the rash. The parts of the body where the rash occurs can also provide clues about the underlying condition. In measles, the rash typically starts behind the ears and face and spreads over the body from there.

Infectious diseases are often contagious, which could pose a threat to others. Therefore, if anything is unclear, you should consult a doctor who can then explain how to proceed.

More about this topic can be found: Is my rash contagious?

Autoimmune diseases

There are also autoimmune skin diseases that cause rashes. This often results in blistering and peeling of skin layers (e.g. Pemphigoid).

Malignant diseases

Last but not least, skin tumors also manifest themselves, e.g. basalioma and malignant melanoma due to changes in the skin, which can initially appear as a rash. Other cancers that can cause a rash are Kaposi's sarcoma and Paget's tumor of the breast.

Read more on this topic: What are the signs that my rash could be cancerous?

Symptoms of a rash

Depending on the cause of the rash triggered, the symptoms vary. Every skin rash has in common that there is a mostly reddish skin change on different parts of the body. Both the speed of spread and the symptoms vary from symptom-free courses to severe, itchy and burning Careers.

Rashes can appear anywhere on the body in many different forms. Most of the time, the rash is a symptom of an illness. To find out what the underlying cause of the rash is, assess its appearance, location, and whether it changes.
If it occurs all over the body, diseases such as chickenpox or food allergies come into consideration; if the rash is limited, it can be a symptom of a contact allergy or acne, for example. The shape of the rash can often tell which disease is behind the "rash" symptom.

• The first symptoms of a rash are called primary rashes. For example, stains (Macules), Nodules (Papules), Vesicles (Vesicles), Pustules or wheals (Urticae) are the first to show symptoms (see also: Rash with wheals).
• When a rash changes, what is known as secondary efflorescence occurs. Examples of these symptoms are dandruff (Squamae), Crusts (Crustae), Abrasion (Decoration), Ulcer (Ulcer) or scar (Ciatrix). The appearance of the rash usually gives an initial indication of the possible cause.

The most common symptom accompanying a rash is itching. The affected areas may also be painful, overheated, or burning. As a further symptom, the mucous membranes in the mouth and throat can also be affected by the rash, in this case it is known as an enanthem.
Depending on the cause of the rash, there may be other symptoms and signs of illness, such as fever (fever with a rash), nausea, swelling, sweating, breathing difficulties, cough, and swelling of the lymph nodes.

Read more on this topic at: Rash on the forehead

In children, acutely blooming red spots with fever often indicate one of the classic childhood diseases such as measles or chickenpox. Atopic dermatitis shows symptoms such as dry skin and patches of inflamed and severely itchy skin. A sore rose can present on the leg through reddened areas of skin with swelling.
Side effects of medication often appear as red, thickened, itchy spots (but also other types of rashes) and usually spread over the back and chest as well as on both sides over the insides of the arms and legs. Since there are innumerable possible forms and causes of rashes, these are just a few examples to illustrate how the different symptoms of a rash indicate the underlying disease.

Read more on the subject at: Rash on the upper arm

Itchy rash

The most common symptom that accompanies a rash is itching, which is an uncomfortable sensation on the skin that provokes the fingernails to scratch or rub the skin. The itching is triggered by certain messenger substances (mediators). These messenger substances are mainly located in certain cells in the skin, the so-called mast cells. In the case of various skin diseases, these messenger substances are released from the cells, but they can also be released by drugs, food, allergens, plant or insect toxins. This triggers the itching symptom. This sensory disorder can also sometimes be perceived as burning, pain, or overheating.

An itchy rash can be acute or chronic. In addition to severe itching, the rash often manifests itself in changes in the color and surface texture of the skin. Depending on the cause, the rash takes on different forms, and the affected skin surface often expands. An acute itchy rash is known medically as a rash and can be caused by various infectious diseases such as rubella, chickenpox, measles or scarlet fever. In these diseases, the rash usually has a specific shape and, in addition to itching, is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, chills, body aches, nausea and vomiting.

Itching associated with a rash is often caused by skin conditions such as hives, psoriasis, or neurodermatitis.

• With hives, itchy wheals form, with psoriasis, reddened areas of skin are noticeable, where the top layer of skin flakes off white.
• Atopic dermatitis can be diagnosed by a typical red rash that feels rough and scaly.
• Very uncomfortable itching can also be caused by the scabies. Scabies is a skin disease and is caused by mites. These tend to dig into layers of skin between the fingers and toes as well as on the armpits and in the genital area. In addition to the severe itching, scabies also have a nodular rash.

Hypersensitivity to certain medications can also cause itching combined with a rash. The so-called "drug rash", a skin rash caused by medication, indicates an intolerance to a medication (for example the antibiotic ampicillin) and is accompanied by severe itching.

Diagnosis

Any diagnosis of the rash lies in the anamnese (Sick survey is the basis) The doctor will die Duration of complaints and the speed of propagation as well localization ask if they are not obvious anyway. Furthermore, he will like the accompanying symptoms dizziness, fever Inquire about general condition deterioration.
Ultimately, one of the most important questions will be whether the patient is pre-empting the rash either new drugs that he has never consumed before, or whether it is one New application more chemical or biological Substances came before the onset of the rash (new detergent, new Skin cream Etc). In addition to the anamnesis, the Eye diagnosis one of the most important diagnostic criteria. In most cases, rashes are clearly recognizable, symptoms such as Burn or itch must be requested separately.

therapy

The therapy of the rash also depends on the triggering cause. The basic rule of any skin rash therapy is to eliminate the underlying cause. If it is suspected that a newly used drug is to blame for the rash, it must be discontinued in any case and replaced with another drug.
Even with skin creams that have been newly used, the best therapy is the consistent discontinuation of the ingredient. Jewelry that triggers intolerance should also be discarded.

Read more on the subject at: What to do if you have a rash

If it is suspected that one of the diseases mentioned above, such as measles, scarlet fever or rubella, is to blame for the rash, in most cases it is necessary to wait until the disease is over. An exception are bacterial infections (such as syphilis), which also cause a rash and can be treated with an antibiotic.

For all allergic causes, a treatment attempt (in addition to discontinuing the triggering substance) with cortisone (ointment or tablets) or with a histamine blocker (cetirizine) can be undertaken. In addition, symptomatic treatment measures, which may consist of cooling compresses or cooling gels, should be used.

Further information can be found on our website When does a rash need cortisone?

If acne is the cause, medication can be used to reduce sebum production and prevent skin inflammation.
In this case, women have the option of birth control pills. To do this, the patient should consult a gynecologist.

Read more about the drug: Dermatop®

Read more on the subject at: Medicines for skin diseases as well as an overview of all topical drugs under: Ointments and creams

Home remedies for rash

The list of ways to treat skin rashes with natural home remedies is long and often there is an argument about what helps and what doesn't, as the effects of these methods are usually not scientifically proven. Therefore you should try out for yourself what works best and what doesn't.
If there is no improvement, there is a Doctor visit recommended because rashes are harmless in most cases, but they can also be symptoms of serious illnesses that must be treated with medication.

Generally used for rashes and skin lesions humidity and gel recommended, for example fragrance-free Aloe vera gel, cool moist envelopes e.g. with yogurt or a Bath with sea salt. In the case of extremely dry skin, which is damaged as a result, treatment with anything that donates oil to the skin is recommended, e.g. lavender-or Sunflower oil, but also various creams that are a lot of fat and urea (Urea) included.

One should take care not to use the stressed skin PH-neutral soap wash and if possible avoid fragrances and preservatives.

If there is severe itching Antihistamines helpful, these are available in ointments that you can buy at the pharmacy. At Nettles is Dry powder an effective remedy for recovery. If none of that helps, you have to willy-nilly cortisone To fall back on.

Illustration rash

a - Healthy skin
b - Subcorneal pus vesicle
(Pustule - under the cornea)
c - Intraepithelial pus vesicles
(Pustule - splits the epidermis)
d - epidermal nodules
(epidermal papule)
e - scleral nodules
(dermal papule)

Epidermis - epidermis
(1 and 2.)

1. Horny layer -
   Stratum corneum
2. Cornifying layer
   (light layer + grain layer)
   Stratum lucidum +
   Stratum granulosum
   Germ layer (prickly cell layer
   + Base layer) -
   Stratum spinosum +
   Stratum basale
3. Dermis -
   Dermis (Papillary layer -
   Stratum papillary
   + Network layer -
   Stratum reticularre)

You can find an overview of all Dr-Gumpert images at: medical illustrations

Special forms / dangerous processes

In addition to the frequent courses, such as Drug allergies or generalized allergic reactions, which usually disappear again after discontinuation of the triggering factors, there are still some rarer and more severe, sometimes even life-threatening courses of skin rashes. The so-called should be mentioned here Lyell Syndromewhich, in addition to an initial rash, causes a kind of peeling of the entire surface of the skin.

In most cases the cause is medication such as Sulfonamides or Anti-epileptic drugs. An outbreak is an absolute emergency and must be treated with plasma paresis. For this reason, the patient survey with precise recording of the medication taken plays a central role in diagnostics.

Different forms of rashes

Rash from allergy

An allergic reaction to certain things can take different forms. Some people respond with one swelling in the mouth- and Neck area (For example Food intolerance), others with itchy eyes and constant sneezing (for example Pollen- or House dust allergy).

Also in the form of a Rash the body can react to the allergen. This rash can look very different: a sudden, mild one Redness (Rash), one Redness with severe itching (eczema), Wheal or pustule formation filled with or without liquid. In addition to itching, it can be too Flaking come. Oozing blisters usually become encrusted after a while.

The skin belongs to the outer protective barrier of ours Immune system and is the organ that reacts first to "antigens". If there is an allergic reaction to a certain food, for example, our will recognize immune system the food as "foreign". It reacts to a harmless substance with an enormous release of messenger substances. These are mainly histamine. Histamine is an important mediator of Inflammatory reactions and is made by certain cells of the Immune system formed and released (basophilic granulocytes and mast cells). In our body, histamine causes the Blood vesselsso that there is increased blood flow to the affected areas. On the skin this manifests itself in a Redness. In addition, histamine increases the "permeability" of the tissue, causing it to Swelling and Edema formation comes. So when a rash occurs Blisters, wheals and itching.

These "allergens" have different routes to get into the body. On the one hand, it can get through direct contact arise (for example by a Nickel-containing Clock, Latex gloves or a new pair of tights that are intolerant). In this form of allergy, the rash usually occurs in the areas where there was previously contact. In the Ingestion the "allergens" (such as nuts) pass directly through the mouth via the mucous membranes or via the Digestive tract in the body. The rash can appear in a wide variety of places. The third way for an allergen to enter the body is through that Airways in the breathing (for example House dust, Pollen, hay). The smallest particles are often enough to trigger a corresponding reaction. At the lung histamine does one Narrowing of the airways, making it even more difficult for some allergic reactions breathing can come.

So if a rash occurs without a directly identifiable cause, the person affected should think about these factors and pay attention to whether it might be related to the consumption of certain foods or, for example, to wearing a new watch. A Allergy test can be very helpful in identifying the allergen.

As a therapy for a rash that occurs due to an allergic reaction, this often helps Dispensing with the corresponding allergenso that the rash recedes. Otherwise, drugs like Antihistamineswhich decrease the effects of histamine and immunosuppressants such as Cortisolto see the reaction of the Immune system to weaken.

Stress rash

The skin is a very sensitive organ and reacts differently to different environmental influences. It often reveals unmistakably mental processesthat we process. It is also said that the skin is "the mirror of our soul." stress has a significant impact on the complexion and promotes red The formation of spots, blisters or flakes on the skin. That's because the skin plays a big role in the immune system plays, forms the first protective barrier - and thus reacts recognizable as the first instance. So form inflammatory changes on certain skin regions, sometimes as a reaction to Defense processes inside the body. A itching occur as an accompanying symptom.

Since a rash caused by stress is not a permanent skin disease, a soothing rash often helps Natural cream, lots of freshness air and the Reduction of stressso that the irritation subsides. If this is not the case, a visit to a dermatologist is recommended. There it can also be ruled out that it is a skin rash Intolerances or through bacterial / viral infections acts. It's important, that each person differently stress responds and not all develop such a "rash" with a changed mental state.

Blistered rash

Skin diseases with Blistering are characterized by liquid-filled bubbles with between small vesicles and so-called Bullae differs or in which skin layer they occur (above in or below the epidermis).

On the one hand, they arise from the loss of Adhesion compounds or. Cell contacts between the cells that hold them together are lost. This is called acantholysis. On the other hand, bubbles can also get through Edema (Swelling) that one Spongiosis or caused by the detachment of the epidermis from the dermis. These are the top two layers of skin.
Examples of the loss of adhesion molecules or cell connections can autoimmune reactions of the body, the antibodies are directed against the body's own structures.

Congenital diseases can also cause the loss of cell contacts, e.g. the Epidermolysis bullosa. You can also contact toxic substances or Bacterial infections (E.g. staphylococcal infection) or Virusese.g. Herpes simplex or Herpes zoster (chickenpox) be responsible for the formation of bubbles.
Treatments are based on the cause, e.g. Immunosuppressants , Antibiotics or antiviral drugs.

Some blistering diseases can be life-threatening, so it is important to see a doctor if symptoms occur.
These diseases include the staphylogenic toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), spread over the body Herpes simplex or Zoster and the Purpura fulminans.

Rash in pregnancy

The skin is subject, like other organ systems, to normal physiological changes during the pregnancy.
It can partly too morbid Skin changes come that only during the pregnancy occur.

Also read: Skin changes during pregnancy

That includes that Pemphigoid gestationis. It mostly occurs in the second or third trimester, or after birth and is expressed in Wheal formation around the belly button that spreads rapidly. This disease is treated with cortisone and Anoint.

The best known and most common disease is PUPPP (Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy) and mainly joins Primiparous women in the last trimester of pregnancy.
First form Wheals With severe itching (Urticaria) in so-called stretch marks, later dominate Papules and Plaques. These can spread to the extremities. Is treated with cortisoneto relieve symptoms.

Furthermore you can Eczema occur on all possible skin areas. A typical skin disease during pregnancy is pustular psoriasisin which reddened plaques form with rings of pustules that are crusted in the middle. The condition can occur at any time during pregnancy. Typically it starts on Upper torso and spreads to the extremities off, face, hands and soles of the feet are mostly spared. Here, too, is used locally cortisone worked as a treatment.

Rash in children

Lots children suffer from every now and then skin rashAs with adults, this can have various causes.
Often children react sensitive with a rash on detergent or personal care products. This is particularly likely if the rash appears after switching to new products and disappears after switching off those products. In addition, the Localization of the rash be groundbreaking, if the rash occurs only on the buttocks, it is probably one Diaper rash.
The type of appearance can also be decisive, if it is one dry, scaly rashassociated with itching, the child may suffer from psoriasis.
A dry, red rash with tears on the earlobe, the crook of the elbow, or other specific parts of the body may indicate Neurodermatitis be, this is a chronic inflammatory skin disease.
Finally, a rash often occurs with one Infectious disease on. The children often have other symptoms here, depending on the underlying illness, for example fever, fatigue, etc. In addition, the rash occurs relatively suddenly at the beginning or during the course of the illness. The Shape of the rash is partly very characteristic of the respective disease and decisive for the diagnosis of the disease.
chickenpox step accompanying with light Fever and body aches mostly on the torso and head, they are lentil-sized, itchy, lumpy Vesicles. These heal after a few days without scarring, the disease is a visual diagnosis for the doctor and many laypeople.
Also at measles is the occurrence initially one Redness of the palate and then a large rash typical. Here, too, the rash resolves on its own after a few days.
At rubella the rash typically starts on the face and spreads to the trunk and extremities. However, this is single spots. Kick frequently accompanying fever, a swelling of the lymph nodes and Headache or body aches on.

Rash in babies

Rash in babies is mostly related to Teething problems on. Of course, it can also be one allergic reaction act of the child.
Teething troubles that are accompanied by rash are above all chickenpox, Scarlet fever, rubella, measles, Ringlet rubella and Three-day fever. In addition to the skin changes observed, symptoms characteristic of the respective disease appear. The type of rash also suggests the underlying condition.

Chickenpox: Itchy blisters and Red stain distributed all over the body; the blisters dry out after several days. It can take several weeks for the rash to go away completely.

Scarlet fever: One is characteristic bright red tongue (Raspberry tongue) in connection with distributed over the whole body, red spots.

Rubella: Of the Rash starts in face and behind the ears. It is spotty and can spread further over the body.

Measles: This disease typically occurs first bright spots on the oral mucosa. Later develops a purple-red rash behind the ears and on the face, which continues to spread over the body.

Ringlet rubella: The kids get first Red cheeks and then develop one red spots existing rash. The spots partially merge and persist for about ten days.

Three-day fever: First step red spots on the face on, later all over. There is no itching.

Diaper rash: However, rash in babies can also have other causes. Especially in the diaper area, the delicate baby skin is stressed by urine and stool in the diaper.
This allows it to red rash in the Diaper region come (diaper rash). Also settle Mushrooms in the inflamed area, the disease is called Diaper thrush designated.
To prevent this, you have to Diapers are changed at least every 3-4 hours. Parents should make sure that their child's diaper area is always sufficiently dried and that the Skin care with the baby to pay attention.
Care products that contain fragrances and preservatives should be avoided. If possible, the diaper should not be too tight so that air can still get into the baby's intimate area.

Neurodermatitis: Last but not least, babies can already develop skin diseases that are accompanied by a rash, such as Neurodermatitis. The first symptom is often the so-called Cradle capwhich occurs from around the 3rd month of life.
The baby usually has reddish blisters on the scalpthat after healing as white crusts remain (therefore the name "Cradle cap"). In severe cases, the cradle cap can spread all over the body. It is not uncommon for this to develop into neurodermatitis later.
Typically, the rash is then in the back of the knees, the crook of the arm and the neck.

Rash after vaccination

Occasionally, after a vaccination, reddening or even a rash may appear, mostly around the injection site for the vaccine. As a rule, such a reaction does not require any special therapy and disappears on its own relatively quickly.

Rash on the face

A rash on the face can have different causes and take different forms. The diagnosis is made by the dermatologist, who can often deduce a cause from the anamnesis and precise inspection of the rash and then starts therapy.
A rash on the face is often associated with considerable distress for those affected. Often a so-called contact dermatitis is the trigger, here it comes from irritants such as pollen (skin rash caused by pollen), certain foods, cosmetics or animal hair to a rash. If the irritant is avoided, the rash will typically resolve.
Eczema on the face, which is a small patch of inflammation on the skin, is often triggered by environmental influences or cosmetics.
A common cause, especially in adolescence, are acne diseases, which are typically associated with purulent pustules.
In childhood, skin rashes on the face often occur as part of infectious diseases such as chickenpox, measles or rubella, all of which are highly contagious.
Chronic inflammatory diseases such as neurodermatitis or psoriasis often manifest themselves on the face.

Read more on this topic at: Contact dermatitis

In adults, sexually transmitted diseases can also lead to rashes on the face, often accompanied by symptoms on the genitals such as itching or rash. Many germs such as bacteria or certain fungi can also lead to rashes and inflammation on the face.
In addition, certain medications such as antibiotics can also lead to rashes on the face (rash after antibiotics); the temporal occurrence of the rash a few hours to days after taking the medication should be indicated.
It is not uncommon for excessive exposure to sunlight to be the cause of a rash on the face (e.g. in Mallorca acne).

Read more on the topic: Rash on the face

Rash on the neck

Red stain or rash on the neck rarely occurs alone. Rashes often start on upper body and expand to areas that are in the immediate vicinity.

A rash on the neck can develop for a variety of reasons. Mostly it is the skin's reaction to certain factors, for example as Defense reaction against certain pathogens or as one allergic reaction. It is very important to clarify the exact cause in order to treat the rash. To do this, the attending physician takes a detailed anamnesis.

If it's a reaction to a specific pathogen, symptoms other than the rash will appear, suggesting that there are many different pathogens. Next measles, chickenpox, Ringworm, Folliculitis, Herpes and Shingles can a bacterial Infection behind it. In order to identify the pathogen, the course or the change in the rash can provide decisive clues. Since each pathogen requires different treatment, the differential diagnosis is crucial.

In the event of an allergic reaction, the crucial thing should be urgent food or drug be found against which the intolerance exists. The sufferer should pay attention to whether the rash is certain activities (for example wearing nickel-containing Jewelry) or after eat certain things (for example nuts) occurs. If there is an incompatibility with metals such as nickel, there is one after contact Contact dermatitiswhich belongs to the category of allergic type IV reactions. This means an allergic reaction that occurs after one or two days (delayed type) and takes the form of Reddening of the skin and itching expresses.

Long exposure to the sun should be avoided if the skin is irritated. Also stress can be the reason for a reddening of the neck. If so, the rash should mostly subside after the stress is overcome.

Another cause can be Cosmetic products that are applied and poorly tolerated at this point. Also acne can be responsible for red spots on the neck. However, a for measles typical rash starts on the neck and then spreads, just like others bacterial or viral diseases (see above).

Rash on the upper body

Rashes can occur for a variety of reasons, most typically starting on the upper body and spreading to surrounding areas of the skin. It should be observed whether the rash remains localized or spreads.
The skin reaction may indicate an allergic reaction, e.g. for insect bites, lice bites or food intolerance.
Especially on the upper body, i.e. on the chest (see also Rash on the chest) and stomach can be caused by fungal infections in the intestines or the rash can be traced back to viral diseases such as chickenpox (herpes zoster) or shingles.
In addition, diseases like measles first manifest on the upper body before spreading to other areas. Syphilisexanthemums can also appear on the upper body and back.
However, rashes can - as in most cases - have quite harmless causes, e.g. when using a new detergent or intolerance to certain ingredients of body lotion or shower gels.

Read more on the topic: Rash on the upper body

Rash on the abdomen

At the belly can cause a Redness or a Rash arise. It can occur across the board or only sporadically and take different forms. In addition to a reddening can Pustules or Papules arise that occur without liquid or can be "weeping". Even very dry skin can cause flaking Rash trigger. If these areas are also itchy, they are also called eczema.

Some viral pathogens trigger a rash on the stomach particularly often: the Hepatitis viruses or the chickenpox Pathogen "Herpes Zoster". To the resurgence of the Herpes zoster it usually happens when that immune system is acutely weakened. Then the virus spreads along the nerve tracts in a belt-like manner belly- and Chest area out and causes painful Exanthema. This disease is therefore also "Shingles" called. In addition to child viral and bacterial infections such as rubella, Ringlet rubella, Scarlet fever, measles or chickenpox (which usually cause other symptoms in addition to a rash on the stomach) also comes one Fungal infection in question.

But not only bacterial and viral pathogens are possible reasons for a rash. Also Allergies or intolerance can cause rashes on the abdomen. A previous Taking antibiotics or a new detergent that is allergic to one must be considered. Is a intolerance the reason for the rash should the food or object be avoided in the future.

For adequate therapy there is one accurate diagnosis extreme important. Therefore, the person affected should very carefully observe the occurrence and course of the rash and be in contact with the treating doctor.

Rash without itching

In most cases, rash is accompanied by less severe to very severe itching.
This is especially true for most infectious diseases, such as. Chickenpox, in which very itchy blisters develop. However, there is also a rash that occurs without itching at all. Here, too, the causes are diverse.
In general, it should be noted that every person can react very individually to stimuli from the environment. While the rash manifests itself as severe itching in one person, in the other person it is only a reddening of the skin without itching. The exact circumstances and causes of the rash must therefore be checked individually in each case.

Measles: The best known infectious disease that typically manifests itself as a rash without itching is measles. Children are most likely to develop measles. Characteristic red-purple spots appear that run into each other and, starting behind the ears and on the face, can spread over the whole body - typically without itching.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): SLE is an autoimmune disease that predominantly affects young women of childbearing age.
This leads to chronic inflammatory reactions in various organs and tissues. A characteristic symptom of this disease is a rash on the face, which develops especially in the nose and cheek area (so-called Butterfly erythema). This skin change is usually not itchy or painful.
The butterfly erythema can completely regress under therapy. In addition to the skin changes on the face, minor, flaky redness can also appear on the rest of the body. Sun exposure often worsens the rash in SLE.

Borreliosis: Borreliosis transmitted by tick bites manifests itself in about 50% of the cases as wandering redness (Erythema migrans), which develop around the puncture site after a few days to weeks and then spread and migrate over the body. This rash is circular with a lightening in the middle and can appear with or without itching. Read more information on the topic at: Tick ​​bite during pregnancy

Acne: Acne, the most well-known skin disease, manifests itself in numerous pus pimples and pustules, which tend to appear on the face, back and décolleté. But there are other parts of the body where pimples can appear. For example, pus pimples on the shoulder are not uncommon. The pimples can itch, but in most cases they are more likely to be associated with pain or burning, depending on the location.

Another cause of a rash without itching is an allergic reaction. Furthermore, taking certain medications (rash after antibiotics) can lead to a skin rash without itching.

Read more on the topic: Rash without itching

Rash in HIV

About 1-4 weeks after an HIV infection, the person affected may develop unspecific symptoms that can easily be mistaken for a flu-like infection. Most patients suffer from fever, swelling of the lymph nodes and sore throat during acute HIV infection (Pharyngitis).
Skin rash is also one of the possible symptoms of acute HIV infection (in 50-70% of those infected). This rash occurs mainly on the face and trunk (Back, chest, stomach), arms and legs are less affected.
It consists of small red spots interspersed with small nodules. One also speaks of a maculopapular exanthem. The lesions are usually associated with little or no itching. The rash often disappears on its own after 24-48 hours.

Infection-related rash under HIV: Since the immune system is weakened in HIV, pathogens (bacteria, fungi, viruses) can settle more easily on the skin and lead to rashes and redness. As a result, some forms of rash are more common in HIV, such as thrush (Fungal infection of the skin).

Rash due to HIV therapy: If the patient is already being treated for his / her HIV infection, even under these circumstances a skin rash can occur, which can result from a reaction to the corresponding drug (drug eruption).
It is important to distinguish it from infection-related rashes, as HIV patients are generally more susceptible to any type of infection. If the rash is definitely drug-related, it should be discontinued and changed.

Kaposi's sarcoma: If the HIV disease is advanced, Kaposi's sarcomas can develop. These are malignant skin tumors that can be associated with a weakened immune system, such as HIV. Typically, Kaposi's sarcoma manifests itself as a violet or brownish-bluish, nodular skin change and usually occurs first in several places on the legs, later also among others. in the mouth. With adequate HIV therapy it usually regresses because the immune system can then fight against the degenerated cells.

Read more on the topic: Rash and HIV

Rash after taking antibiotics

skin rash is a relatively common one unwanted reaction of antibiotics. Depending on the type of intolerance, the rash appears a few minutes, hours or days after the first use of the antibiotic.
So-called beta-lactam antibiotics such as penicillin or cephalosporins are most likely to cause rashes. Up to 3-10% of all people react to such an antibiotic with a rash, most of them as part of a pseudo-allergic reaction, less often with a classic allergic reaction.

A prick test can be carried out to find out whether there is a real allergy to the antibiotic in question. This is a Allergy test injecting the suspected allergen into the forearm and observing the reaction on the skin. Another possibility is to detect antibodies in the blood.
The rash is usually harmless and disappears a few hours and days after stopping the antibiotic. In very rare cases, the rash appears immediately after taking the antibiotic, and a strong allergic reaction in the form of a occurs anaphylactic shock with shortness of breath and threatening suffocation.
Skin rashes are particularly common in older people after taking antibiotics, whose liver and kidney function is impaired and so the antibiotic stays longer in the body. Taking many medications also makes a rash more likely.
It is important to prescribe after the rash appears doctor or the family doctor to seek out. An allergy test should possibly be done to diagnose or rule out a real allergy. As a result, the affected and structurally similar antibiotics should be avoided; the doctor can issue an allergy passport for this.

Flu rash

In some people, the skin also reacts after a flu-like infection Redness, swelling and also with Blistering. In the affected areas it can also Pain, Burn or itching come.

Reason for such a rash on the skin after one flu is mostly the Defense reaction of the immune system to the virus causing it. By certain cells (mast cells) that are in the immune system play an important role, during the defense against pathogens the messenger substance "histamine“Poured out. The cells are mainly located in the dermis (stratum corneum) and in the mucous membrane. In the surrounding tissue, histamine triggers one swelling, better ones Blood circulation (this leads to a Redness) and Pain out. This leads to the fact that the reaction of the body becomes externally visible. The immune system is often still weakened by the previous infection. The Spread and course of the rash are very different and can provide the treating doctor with information about the cause. Also about infectious diseases like measles, Rubella, scarlet fever and chickenpox to be able to rule out the cause, a doctor should be consulted.

When to Treatment of the flu If medication has been taken, the rash may also result from an intolerance to them. Many drugs (including Antibiotics) cause rash as a side effect and should be taken with caution. Overall, older people are more sensitive to the side effects of the drugs. Often also can Allergies Cause skin reactions. Since the treatment of the rash depends very much on the cause, it is recommended to clarify this.

Tomato rash

If a skin reaction in the form of a rash occurs after eating tomatoes, a possible sensitization with the development of an intolerance should be considered.

Read more about this at: Tomato rash

Summary

Rashes are also called Exanthema designated. They have a characteristic course that consists of Beginning, Gradient peak after some time and the Healing consists. Depending on Cause of the rash the time of spread may vary. In many cases, rash affects the face, neck, arms and legs, back or trunk. Exanthema can in addition to the visual appearance completely symptom-free occur or with itch, Burning or severe pain.

Causes of a rash can allergic reaction (e.g. after applying a new skin cream or Wearing a nickel earring). Here the skin and the annoy the top layer of the skin irritated. The actual allergic rash then gets through that Cells of the blood vessels triggered, which cause a vasodilatation and that blood supply to the corresponding skin area leave (reddish color of the exanthema). Only an interaction between skin cells and vascular cells allows a rash to develop. The most common cause of a rash are drug. They do approx. 80% of the cases out. Triggering Medication can be: Ampicilins, Sulfonamides, Penicilins, Cephalosporins, salicylates, ACE inhibitors, Carbamazepine, Phenytoin and allopurinol.

Furthermore put infectious connections a common cause of a rash classic teething troubles how measles, Scarlet fever and rubellahaving a rash in different characteristics, temporal sequence and localization occur. Depending on the type of spread, the suspicion of the causative disease can often be made. Also bacterial Infection can be the cause of a rash. That would be mentioned here rarely occurring syphilis. Another classification in addition to the triggering factors is the external appearance. How to get exanthema in macular exanthema (not raised only in the skin level), papular exanthema (sublime Skin changes), pustolous exanthema (according to the pimple), serous exanthema (emptying skin changes) and urticarial rash (flat, rounded, red and raised).

On the one hand, the diagnosis consists of the Eye diagnosiswhich can initially provide an indication of an exanthem and secondly one detailed anamnesis (Health survey). This should discuss how long the symptoms have been present, whether a new skin cream, a new drug has been used and whether there are accompanying symptoms (such as fever Etc).

The therapy depends on the triggering factor. Basically, the triggering factor must be turned off. Trigger skin creams have to be discontinued and appropriate medication exchanged for alternative preparations. At allergic rashes should attempt treatment with Cortisone ointments or Cortisone tablets to be undertaken.

Because allergic reactions mostly histamine mediated can also be tried with drugs from the Group of histamine blockers (Cetirizine) start treatment. You can also use cooling dressings and gels a reduction in symptoms can be achieved. As a rule, the combination (avoidance of the triggering factors, anti-inflammatory medication and symptomatic therapy) reduces the rash. The cause is one infectious disease, how measles is present, the disease must be healed. Of the few bacterial infections that can cause a rash, a Treatment attempt with an antibiotic to be started.

Are exanthema usually harmless, however, are hiring serious warning sign In some rare and severe courses, a skin rash can indicate the onset of an emergency. The so-called should be mentioned here Lyell Syndrome, which is a hypersensitivity reaction to different groups of drugs. The rash is followed by a Peeling of the skin. If left untreated, the disease is fatal and therefore the only treatment option is one Plasma paresis represent.
Patients who have rashes due to allergic reaction should also be issued with an allergy certificate, which should indicate what type of allergy is present and which substances should be avoided. One is particularly important Allergy pass for drug allergies.