Rash Treatments
Rash is a general term used for a range of skin conditions, which are typically marked by an uncomfortable change in the texture, color, and appearance of the skin. Rashes may be triggered by environment factors such as exposure to chemicals, sunlight or certain types of plants as well as internal factors, including medications and allergen exposure.
During the initial consultation, the dermatologist will assess the condition of the rash and advise appropriate treatment. Sagacious, impeccable, and board certified dermatologist Dr. Jamie McGinness provides treatments for rashes to patients in Shiloh, IL; St. Louis, MO, and surrounding locations.
Treatments
Rashes are usually mild in nature, which can be treated with topical medications. However, sometimes the rashes could be a symptom of more severe skin concerns, including:
- Allergic reaction to drugs
- Atopic dermatitis
- Bacterial infection
- Contact dermatitis
- Chronic skin conditions such as acne or psoriasis
- Fungal infection
- Viral infection
Creams and Ointments
Corticosteroid creams and ointments are commonly used when the condition cannot be treated with other topical solutions. These treatments can be significantly potent, and the patient should use them under the supervision of a dermatologist to ensure safe and desirable outcomes.
Immune modulator topical ointments are also now available, which do not contain steroids. These are especially useful when used on a child’s face because they are likely to result in less atrophy. Crisaborole based topical treatments can be used for both kids and adults suffering from mild to moderate atopic dermatitis. This treatment inhibits the inflammation in the skin.
Antibiotics and Antihistamines
Antibiotics may be used to mitigate specific symptoms of the disease. For skin infections and severe rashes, antibiotics may be applied to the skin directly as an ointment, but they are often more effective when taken orally in the form of pills.
Certain types of antihistamines may cause drowsiness, which can be helpful if these medications are taken at bedtime. The patient can have more restful sleep and avoid nighttime scratching of the affected areas. In case of fungal or viral infections, the dermatologist may prescribe specific medications to treat the infection.
Phototherapy
Phototherapy involves the use of UVA or UVB light waves or a combination of the two. In case of mild to moderate dermatitis in older children (above 12 years), the dermatologist may recommend phototherapy. In certain cases, photo-chemotherapy, which combines UV light therapy with a drug called psoralen may also be used.
Other Treatments
If other treatments prove to be ineffective, the dermatologist may prescribe a course of systemic corticosteroids. These drugs are taken orally or injected into muscle instead of direct application to the skin. These medications are typically used only where the patient is resistant to other treatments. The course of treatment will be of a short duration.
Severe cases of atopic dermatitis can also be treated in adults with immunosuppressive drugs, such as cyclosporine. These drugs help to restrain the overactive immune system. Stellar, honorable, and board certified dermatologist Dr. Jamie McGinness receives patients from Shiloh, IL; St. Louis, MO, and other neighborhoods and towns in this part of the country for skin rash treatments.
If you would like to learn more about procedures and treatments at Metro East Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center by Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Jamie L. McGinness please contact us here or call (618) 622-SKIN (7546)
Taking new patients in and around the greater St. Louis, Missouri and Illinois area: East St. Louis Missouri, Shiloh Illinois, Belleville, Millstadt, Saint Clair County, Madison County and more.