Results for: Rash
Emergency Warning Signs
Call 911 or go to the emergency room immediately if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Chest pain or pressure
- Sudden numbness or weakness in face, arm, or leg
- Sudden confusion or trouble speaking
- Severe allergic reaction (swelling, difficulty swallowing)
- Heavy bleeding that won't stop
- Loss of consciousness
- Signs of stroke (face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty)
21 Possible Conditions
These conditions are listed by likelihood based on the symptom. This is not a diagnosis.
Atopic dermatitis
A chronic, itchy skin condition common in children and adults, often associated with a personal or family history of allergies.
Contact dermatitis
Inflammatory rash caused by direct skin contact with irritants or allergens such as chemicals, plants, or metals.
Psoriasis
An autoimmune disease that produces thick, scaly plaques, most often on the elbows, knees, and scalp.
Urticaria (hives)
Rapidly appearing, red, raised welts that itch or burn, often triggered by allergens, infections, or stress.
Scabies
A contagious infestation by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, causing intense itching and a pimple‑like rash.
Impetigo
A bacterial skin infection, usually caused by Staphylococcus or Streptococcus, that produces honey‑colored crusted lesions.
Cellulitis
A deep bacterial infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, presenting as a red, warm, painful swelling.
Rocky Mountain spotted fever
A tick‑borne illness caused by Rickettsia rickettsii, characterized by fever, headache, and a petechial rash that starts on wrists and ankles.
Measles
A viral infection marked by fever, cough, conjunctivitis, and a maculopapular rash that spreads from head to trunk.
Scarlet fever
A streptococcal infection producing a fine, sandpaper‑like rash, often accompanied by a sore throat and fever.
Drug eruption
A rash that develops as an adverse reaction to medications, ranging from mild maculopapular eruptions to severe Stevens‑Johnson syndrome.
Systemic lupus erythematosus
An autoimmune disease that can cause a malar (butterfly) rash across the cheeks and nose, often photosensitive.
Erythema multiforme
An acute, immune‑mediated reaction presenting with target‑shaped lesions, frequently triggered by infections or drugs.
Chickenpox (varicella)
A contagious viral illness causing an itchy, vesicular rash that progresses from papules to crusted lesions.
Herpes zoster (shingles)
Reactivation of varicella‑zoster virus leading to a painful, unilateral vesicular rash following a dermatome.
Pityriasis rosea
A self‑limited rash that begins with a herald patch and spreads to a Christmas‑tree pattern on the trunk.
Heat rash (miliaria)
Blocked sweat ducts cause tiny red papules or vesicles, typically in hot, humid conditions.
Rosacea
A chronic facial disorder characterized by erythema, papules, and sometimes visible blood vessels.
Seborrheic dermatitis
A common inflammatory condition causing flaky, greasy scales on the scalp, face, and upper chest.
Lyme disease (erythema migrans)
Early manifestation of Borrelia burgdorferi infection, presenting as a expanding, target‑shaped rash at the tick bite site.
When to Seek Emergency Care
While many conditions can be managed with home care or a doctor's visit, some situations require immediate medical attention. Seek emergency care if:
Heart-Related
Chest pain, rapid heartbeat, or shortness of breath
Brain-Related
Severe headache, confusion, or sudden vision changes
High Fever
Fever above 103°F (39.4°C) or fever with stiff neck
Severe Bleeding
Uncontrolled bleeding or coughing up blood
Medical Disclaimer
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the emergency department, or call 911 immediately.
Sources: Mayo Clinic, WebMD, CDC, NIH