A rash on the skin is always unpleasant, and how it manifests can give away its origins. Some rashes appear on the face, others are itchy, and a few become scaly. A visit to the nearest medical center can help you determine the cause of these rashes, but some due diligence, like asking what is eczema may help calm your nerves before the appointment. Below are some common types of skin rashes that may affect you.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic condition that produces white, scaly patches of skin. These thick patches may occur in areas such as the knees, scalp, lower back, or elbows. It is not contagious, so it cannot be spread to another person, unlike a fungal infection. It is a good idea to learn the difference between psoriasis vs fungal infection so you can keep yourself safe and prevent unneeded stress.

Eczema

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that features dry, itchy, and scaly skin. These rashes are typically triggered by external irritants such as allergens, changes in temperature, and a multitude of additional causes. The cause of the ailment is unknown, but it is believed to stem from overactive immune systems. Drug stores offer over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as antihistamines and steroids to treat the condition. A doctor may prescribe an immunosuppressant to mitigate the symptoms.

Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition characterized by red skin on the face, dryness, sensitive skin, and red bumps. There is no cure and the cause is still undetermined. It seems to come and go in episodes (also known as cycles) and can be triggered by sources such as:

• Excessive stress
• Drinking alcohol
• Natural light
• Foods containing spice
• Bacteria in the intestine

Rosacea bumps are filled with pus. Once detected, doctors can offer treatment for the symptoms whenever they occur.

Ringworm

Ringworm is a fungal infection that affects the skin, causing lesions that look like a worm-shaped ring. The infection typically occurs in the groin area, on the body, or on the scalp and can spread. Affected areas have itchy, scaly patches of skin that are round in shape. The patches can develop into pustules or blisters. If the scalp is infected, it may result in hair loss.

Scabies

Humans typically have tiny mites living on the body at all times, but an infestation of them can cause a problem known as scabies. Scabies symptoms consist of myriads of small bumps on the skin that itch and are sometimes scaly. The skin condition is contagious and can be spread by direct contact with an infected person or their belongings. A medical professional can prescribe an oral or topical medication to resolve the condition.

Contact Dermatitis

Your skin is always in contact with the environment, but some things can irritate it to the point of a flare-up. Touching something that your skin is allergic to or irritated by can produce a rash at the point of contact that is raw, scaly, or itchy. The duration and severity of the reaction depend on the length of exposure and level of discomfort. Once the irritant is removed, the skin condition typically goes away on its own.

Insect Bites

Insects that bite can cause a lot of turmoil for those affected. Bed bugs, mosquitoes, and fleas are just some of the bugs that are known to puncture human skin. The aftermath of a bite is typically a rash that itches and/or raised bumps. Bites from such pests will go away on their own, but certain ones may afflict diseases (such as tick bites) that require a visit to the doctor's office or emergency room (ER). Treating an insect bite is as simple as purchasing an OTC cream and applying it to the affected area.

Although it may be concerning to see a rash appear on your skin, you are often better off finding the cause of it instead of jumping into a panic attack. The above are some of the more common skin rashes that you may want to know about.