How To Treat Rashes

Everyone gets them once in a while, so it's important to know how to treat rashes. What causes a rash? The cause may be something external like contact with a new soap, or internal like a virus or infection. Most rashes are not life-threatening but can be just plain annoying to deal with. 

What you'll need:

• over-the-counter anti-itch cream 
• drugstore antihistamines
• moisturizing lotion

Every home medicine chest should contain the above items. They will be your first line of defense when treating your rash. This is how you can deal with a rash at home:

1. Cleanse skin with a mild, fragrance-free skin cleanser. Don't use soap.
2. Apply anti-itch cream and/or moisturizer
3. Take an antihistamine if you are really uncomfortable.

Of course, the cause of your rash makes all the difference. So, you will need to think back to what you may have done recently, what you have been exposed to that might be causing your rash. There is an almost endless list of rash-producing agents: bacteria, viruses, allergies, medication side effects, contact with an irritant such as detergent or cleaning supplies, heat, rosacea, psoriasis, etc.

The medical name for a skin rash is dermatitis or eczema. Contact dermatitis, which is caused by an irritant in your immediate environment, causes skin to feel itchy and inflamed and may even cause blisters. For most ordinary skin rashes, you should avoid harsh soaps, using creams and ointments instead.

If a rash doesn't clear up on its own in a few days, it would be wise to visit a doctor. Either a general practitioner or a dermatologist should be consulted as to the cause and treatment of your rash.