Skin rashes, sunburns, and other irritations are extremely common during the summer and could lead to more uncomfortable symptoms. The good news for local patients though is that urgent care centers and walk-in clinics are available across Denver.
The term skin rash is a catch-all term to describe whenever an infection, injury, or disease causes irritation of the skin. Some rashes tend to be a minor affliction while others can be the result of allergies or more complex healthcare situations.
At AFC Urgent Care Denver, we want to dive into the most common types of skin rashes as determined by the Mayo Clinic so you can learn how to make informed treatment decisions. We’ll also dive into some common skin rashes during the summertime and how local healthcare providers are nearby to determine the best course of action.
So what should patients understand about skin rashes and related allergies?
What are some common types of skin rashes? What could they mean about my health?
As we mentioned above, skin rashes are the result of specific infections, diseases, or allergic reactions in most cases. Sometimes though, a skin irritation could indicate some sort of deficiency in nutrients or other important substances for the body.
The most common types of skin rashes include the following as well as the main causes of irritation:
Eczema: Eczema is usually the cause of allergies, asthma, or hay fever which can lead to peeling and discoloration of the skin. The main symptoms of eczema include itchiness, skin redness, dry and peeling skin, and blistering.
Some forms of eczema are from hereditary causes and don’t have an immediate cause. The good news for patients is that eczema is treatable through basic mineral oils and other prescription forms.
Christmas Tree Rash: Christmas tree rash or pityriasis rosea is a common skin rash that is usually caused by bacterial infections as well as allergies. It is an oval shaped rash that can spread across the body and usually causes itching and in extreme cases fever, sore throat, tiredness, and headaches.
In most cases, the rash heals on its own in about 1 or 2 weeks. However, advanced cases may require antihistamine treatments and clinical treatment.
Heat Rash and Sunburn: Heat rash and sunburns are two different types of skin irritations and are sometimes confused with one another.
Heat rash is when a person’s pores get clogged by sweat and perspiration, which leads to intense itching, blisters, and deep blisters. Heat rash can potentially cause pain, swelling, pus, and fever if it is not treated. To avoid heat rash, make sure that you don’t allow a significant build up of sweat occur on your skin and to frequently shower during the summer.
Conversely, a sunburn is when UV radiation from the sun damages the skin. Sunburns can cause pain, blistering, extreme discomfort, and even forms of melanoma in extreme cases. The good news though is that sunburn is treatable with sunscreen and limited exposure.
If you have either heat rash or a sunburn, a medical provider may prescribe medicated ointment to help address pain or skin damage. Additionally, urgent care centers can also perform treatment to alleviate immediate symptoms.
Shingles: Shingles is a dormant version of the chickenpox virus that leads to irritation of the skin including rashes, blisters, and other types of visible symptoms across the body. In extreme cases, shingles can lead to fever and health complications in elderly adults.
Most shingles symptoms dissipate in 2-3 weeks but clinical intervention can help address itching and discomfort. Medicated lotions and oils are usually provided to help the patient heal.
Swimmer’s Itch: Swimmer’s itch is an allergic reaction from parasites in the water that latch onto or into a person’s skin. While the itch usually disapates in a few days, the symptoms such as itching and inflamed skin can be quite painful. It is advised to see a doctor or urgent care center if your rash lasts for more than three days. Most medical providers can address symptoms and provide medication that can help reduce inflamed skin.
Where can I find care for skin rashes and allergic reactions around Denver, CO?
Skin irritations and rashes can come in a variety of forms as well as uncomfortable symtpoms. Whenever you require skin rash treatment in Denver, make sure to visit any one of oiur AFC Urgent Care Denver locations.
AFC Urgent Care Denver Speer provides immediate walk-in clinic access to patients in Speer, Baker, Captiol Hill, and Alamo Plactica Colorado. Simply visit and get the care you need for a variety of skin irritations in minutes.
Additionally, our local urgent care center at AFC Denver Park Hill is perfect for patients from Hale, CO and South Park Hill, CO to recieve updated medications and treatments for persistent skin infections.
If you have any more questions about our urgent care services, plea
