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Rash

Dorset Street Dermatology -  - Dermatology

Dorset Street Dermatology

Dermatology & Cosmetic Dermatology located in South Burlington, VT

A rash can be embarrassing, itchy, uncomfortable, and frustrating. At Dorset Street Dermatology, in South Burlington, Vermont, Mitchell Schwartz, MD, Wendy Shedd, PA-C, Kara Rozendaal, PA-C and the team provide personalized attention for rashes. From evaluation and diagnosis to treatment and long-term control, the team has your rash covered. Book your appointment online or call the office now.

Rash Q&A

What is a rash?

A rash is skin inflammation, irritation, and redness. Rashes can happen because of allergic reactions, insect bites, disease, nonallergic environmental triggers, bacterial infections, viral infections, parasitic infections, and fungal infections.

A rash can look red, swollen, blotchy, raised, blistered, or bumpy skin. It may be scaly, dry, flaky, or itchy. Some rashes come and go, while others appear once and then fade without returning. 

What are the different types of rashes?

There are many different rashes, with some common types being:

  • Contact dermatitis
  • Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
  • Rosacea
  • Hives
  • Poison ivy
  • Psoriasis
  • Heat rash
  • Drug rash
  • Ringworm
  • Shingles
  • Athlete's foot

Rashes can appear anywhere on the body but commonly develop on the arms, legs, feet, face, chest, stomach, and back. 

When should I see a doctor about a rash?

In most cases, rashes aren't life-threatening; however, it's important to seek help for:

  • Recurrent rashes
  • Bodywide rashes
  • Rashes that occur alongside a fever
  • Sudden spreading rash
  • Blistering rash
  • Painful rash

You should also seek help at Dorset Street Dermatology if you have any signs of infection at the site of a rash, such as yellowish discharge, skin crusting, skin warmth, a red streak radiating from the rash, or pain. 

How can I reduce my risk of rashes?

The Dorset Street Dermatology team can help you to reduce your risk of rashes by diagnosing and treating underlying conditions like eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis. 

Also, you can help prevent rashes by protecting your skin when outdoors, using precautions around potentially irritating substances, and using high-quality skin care at home. 

What is the treatment for rashes?

There's no all-purpose treatment plan with rashes because rashes can happen for so many different reasons. The Dorset Street Dermatology team tailors a rash treatment for your unique situation. 

Some common treatments can include oral or topical antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, or anti-inflammatories. Broadband light (BBL) can help with some types of rashes, such as rosacea. 

It's also important to protect your skin as the rash heals. The team may recommend premium skin care products from Skinceuticals® and Obagi® to help with this. 

The Dorset Street Dermatology team includes medical dermatology experts with extensive experience in treating all types of rashes. If you have an irritating rash, book your appointment online or by phone today.