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You will most likely discover that you have a rash because the skin will be itchy. The itchiness is usually accompanied by redness in the area, with raised splotches or bumps, & the skin texture may be different.
Other symptoms of acute rashes include:
- Dry, scaly or crusty skin
- Leathery or rough texture
- Blisters
If your rash is accompanied by any of the following symptoms, please seek immediate medical attention.
Main causes of an acute rash
- Allergic reaction (to an environmental allergen or food allergy, for example)
- Insect bite (e.g. mosquito, flea, tick)
- Medications, e.g. over-the-counter painkillers (NSAIDs) or antibiotics
- Exposure to cold or heat
- Viral or bacterial infection (cold or ’flu)
- Fungal infection
- Unknown trigger – sometimes the cause of a rash is not obvious
The rash is created by the body’s release of histamines & other chemical messengers into the skin, in response to a trigger (allergen, infection, temperature change, or medication). The skin responds by opening up the blood vessels & releasing fluid into the tissues.
Symptoms
- Increasing pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Facial swelling
- Fever
- Mental confusion
- Head or neck pain
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
What to do next?
We have specialist dermatologists on our clinic's medical team who can diagnose your skin rash & give you the best possible advice on treatment options. Please give us a call or use our online booking system to make your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rashes
Where can I find specialist dermatology consultations in London?
Harley Street Health Centre offers dermatology services to help treat itching, hyperpigmentation, warts, and other skin issues.
How can I tell if my rash is serious?
Seek urgent care if your rash spreads quickly or covers a large area, is accompanied by fever, swelling, or pain, forms blisters, purple spots, or open sores, or causes difficulty breathing or swelling of the face or lips.
How can I prevent acute rashes?
You can reduce the risk of skin reactions by avoiding known allergens or irritants, practicing good hygiene, using protective clothing to prevent sun or insect exposure, and carefully reading medication labels while consulting your GP if you notice any skin reactions.
Can acute rashes leave scars or marks?
Most rashes heal without scarring, but severe inflammation, scratching, or infections can cause temporary darkening or scarring of the skin.
Are acute rashes contagious?
Some rashes caused by infections (like chickenpox, measles, or impetigo) can spread to others. Non-infectious rashes, like allergic reactions, are not contagious.
