Rashes are the worst, and they’re more common during the summer. If you’ve recently developed a rash, it can be tough to know where it came from or how serious it will become. Thankfully, most rashes can be treated similarly.

Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Chapman Highway further elaborates on rashes and their treatment.

• Here’s what to do: First off, and you’ve probably heard this before, avoid scratching the rash. Scratching the rash could cause it to become infected, which can cause further complications.
• What to do after: Wash the rash with water only and pat dry. Soap can make dryness and itching worse.
• What to do next: Apply cold to the rash. Whether you choose a cold compress, cool showers or damp cloth, cold water can bring immediate relief and can help stop swelling, ease itching and slow the progression of a rash.
• Something else to try: Consider using petroleum jelly (Vaseline) on the rash. Things like petroleum jelly, calamine lotion and other moisturizing lotions can help relieve rash discomfort. Apply three or four times a day.
• When to visit the doctor: Most rashes can be treated at home and will go away over time without any treatment at all, but some symptoms are cause for a trip to the doctor. If you have signs of infection, such as red streaks coming from the rash, pus draining from the rash or swelling, visit our AFC center to get treatment.
• Action steps to take: Most rashes are caused by contact with a skin allergen, such as poison ivy. When outside, make sure to be aware of where you are walking and wear pants if you are in an area with lots of plants that are unfamiliar.
• If your rash interferes with your daily activities: Take an over-the-counter antihistamine, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or loratadine (Claritin). Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Doctor recommendations: Like we said earlier, most rashes will go away on their own, but a trip to the doctor is necessary for signs of infection and severe discomfort. If this is the case for your rash, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to get rid of the rash.

Tired of dealing with your skin rash? Don’t wait to get the treatment you need by visiting our AFC Urgent Care Chapman Highway team today!