The flu is commonly associated with fever, body aches, cough, sore throat, and fatigue. However, some people may also experience an unusual symptom– a skin rash. While rashes are not a hallmark symptom of influenza, they can sometimes appear due to viral reactions, fever, or secondary infections. So can the flu cause a rash? The answer is yes, but it’s uncommon. Keep reading to learn more about a flu-related rash and when to seek medical attention.
For same-day flu symptom relief, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aberdeen. Our urgent care center is open 7 days a week and provides the highest quality of care to all patients in the Aberdeen, NJ area. Just stop by at your convenience!
Can The Flu Cause a Skin Rash?
1. Skin Sensitivity and Viral Reactions
Some viruses, including the flu, can even cause a rash as your body fights infection. This can present as red spots on the chest, belly, or back and typically resolves after several days.
2. Fever and Heat Rash
High fevers can lead to heat rashes, particularly if you sweat a great deal when you are sick. This kind of rash is benign and typically resolves after your fever subsides. These rashes usually appear as tiny red bumps in sweaty spots on your neck, chest, and back.
3. Medication Allergy
In some cases, people break out in a rash not because of the flu itself, but because of medications they take to alleviate symptoms. Common culprits include antibiotics (if you’ve developed a secondary infection) and pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. A rash that is itchy, blistering, or associated with swelling or difficulty breathing may indicate an allergic reaction that will need medical evaluation.
How To Treat a Rash Caused By The Flu
Here are some tips to help you relieve your flu-related rash:
- Stay hydrated to help the body heal and prevent skin from drying out
- Keep cool and manage fever with fever reducing medications
- Apply cool compresses to inflamed areas
- If necessary, take a fever-reducer, like acetaminophen
- Try not to sweat a lot to reduce the risk of heat rash.
- Use non-fragranced, gentle moisturizers to ease irritation.
If you think a rash is caused by a medication, stop taking the medication and consult your healthcare provider. If you have swelling, hives or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
When To Seek Medical Attention
While most flu rashes resolve on their own, seek prompt medical attention if you have:
- A rash that rapidly spreads or is growing worse
- Hives, swelling or trouble breathing (signs of a possible allergic reaction)
- A rash with blisters, pain or peeling skin
- A high fever (over 102 F) that won't respond to medication
- A severe headache, stiff neck or confusion
A medical provider can determine if your rash is caused by the flu, an allergic reaction, or something more serious, and provide the appropriate treatment.
Get Walk-In Flu Symptom Relief at AFC Urgent Care Aberdeen
A rash is not a typical flu symptom, but it can occur due to viral reactions, fever, medication allergies or other infections. Most rashes aren’t serious and resolve on their own, but if yours covers a lot of ground, causes discomfort, or is accompanied by a high fever, consult a medical provider. Getting care early can help reduce the risk of complications and promote a speed recovery. Don’t let your symptoms drag on– come see us for effective treatment and support! Our medical team is here 7 days a week to support your health and well-being. Appointments are not required– just stop by at your convenience. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, please contact our medical office directly at (732) 583-5100.
