When a Rash Needs Medical Attention

Most people will deal with a rash at some point in their lives. Maybe you came into contact with something you’re allergic to or dry weather irritates your skin. Maybe you got bit or stung by an insect or have a separate health condition causing your rash. Whatever the cause may be, that skin irregularity probably has you wondering if you need to take action. 

That’s why Kenneth Warrick, MD, FAAD, and our team built this guide. As rash specialists, we can help you narrow down when you can wait it out and when you should make an appointment at our Atlantic Dermatology office in Longs, South Carolina. 

In a lot of cases, you can wait a few days to see if your rash improves on its own. Many times, it will. But if your rash comes with any of these other symptoms, make an appointment with us right away:

1. It develops and spreads quickly

Most rashes creep up and spread over time. But if you develop a rash suddenly or it seems to be spreading quickly, come see Dr. Warrick.

The fast development likely means you can blame an allergen for your rash. In that case, the rash won’t improve — and will likely continue spreading — until you figure out what allergen is in play and remove your exposure to it. We offer allergy testing at our office to help you find out what’s bothering you and your skin. 

2. It’s all over your body

Most rashes develop in a localized area. But if the rash spreads to cover your entire body, it’s a sign that something bigger is at play, whether that’s an allergic reaction or a separate health condition. 

3. You have a fever

Paired together, a rash and a fever likely mean your system is irritated by and trying to fight something, like a serious bacterial infection. Getting fast treatment can help protect you from serious illness. 

4. You’re having trouble breathing

A rash and difficulty breathing usually indicate a very serious allergic reaction. You should seek emergency medical care if you’re experiencing both of these symptoms. 

5. It blisters

When a rash turns into open sores, it means that either a serious health condition or a major drug reaction is in play. You could have chickenpox or shingles, for example, or you could be having a bad, potentially life-threatening reaction to a medication. 

Plus, blistering can lead to open sores that can get infected if you don’t get proper care. Not only can this add a layer of health complications on top of what you’re already facing, but an infected rash is more likely to scar. 

6. It forms a circle

Circular rashes only come from a few causes and they’re important to treat. Ringworm, for example, causes a circle-shaped rash. 

If your rash forms a bullseye — with a ring of rash and normal skin in the middle — it could be Lyme disease. Getting treatment fast can save you from having to manage this condition for the rest of your life. 

When you experience any of these warning signs with your rash, or if it isn’t clearing up after a few days, come see Dr. Warrick for treatment. Call our office today to schedule a consultation, or use the online booking feature anytime.