It’s no secret that skin rashes are painful and itchy, but they can also be so much so that you won’t have the motivation or concentration to do anything else because they can be so uncomfortable. So, how are long are you supposed to suffer through this discomfort?

Our AFC Urgent Care Farragut provides some helpful info about skin rashes below, so keep reading!

What Causes Skin Rashes?

Skin rashes can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections, heat, allergens, immune system disorders and medications. A rash occurs when your body adversely reacts to a typically harmful substance, causing a temporary outbreak of red, bumpy, scaly or itchy patches of skin, possibly with blisters or welts.

Perhaps the most common cause of a skin rash is contact dermatitis, which is a red, itchy rash caused by direct contact with a substance (like poison ivy) or an allergic reaction to it. The rash isn’t contagious or life-threatening, but like almost all rashes, it can be very uncomfortable. We’ve listed some other common rash causes below.

Common Rash Causes

• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Impetigo
• Shingles
• Childhood illnesses, such as chickenpox, measles, roseola, rubella, hand-foot-mouth disease, fifth disease and scarlet fever
• Insect bites or stings

How Long Will My Rash Last?

Every rash is different. Some are longer-lasting and will require long-term treatment to keep the rash under control. Contact dermatitis, however, usually takes a few hours to appear and isn’t totally taken care of until at least two to four weeks later.

Things like cold compress and OTC antihistamines and ointments can help treat the rash, but so can visiting our AFC team! If you aren’t sure what has caused your rash or you’re experiencing any of the things we’ve listed below, it’s best to seek medical treatment.

When to See a Doctor

• The rash is so uncomfortable that you are losing sleep or are distracted from your daily activities
• The rash is sudden, painful, severe or widespread
• You’re embarrassed by the way your skin looks
• The rash doesn’t get better within three weeks
• The rash affects your face or genitals
• Your skin is infected. Clues include fever and pus oozing from blisters.

Has your child been to Tate’s Day Camp or a UT sports camp and come back with a rash? Don’t wait to visit our AFC Urgent Care Farragut team to get the treatment he or she needs!