What Are the Different Types of Skin Rashes?

Skin rashes are a common concern for many patients at Allergy & Asthma Care Rockland, and can present with a wide variety of symptoms depending on their underlying cause. Many rashes are triggered by allergic reactions, immune responses, or environmental exposures—areas in which our practice specializes.

● Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Often seen in individuals with allergies or asthma, eczema causes dry, itchy, and inflamed patches of skin, frequently appearing on the elbows, knees, and face. Our allergy specialists can help identify triggers and develop personalized management plans to minimize flare-ups and discomfort.

● Contact Dermatitis: This rash occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen, resulting in redness, swelling, itching, and sometimes blisters at the site of contact. Patch testing and expert evaluation at our office can help pinpoint specific allergens—such as certain soaps, plants, or metals—so you can avoid future reactions.

● Hives (Urticaria): Characterized by raised, red or skin-colored welts that are often very itchy and can move around the body, hives are frequently caused by allergic triggers. Our team can help identify underlying causes, whether food, medication, insect stings, or other allergens, and offer effective treatments to relieve symptoms.

● Psoriasis: While not primarily an allergic condition, psoriasis produces thick, red plaques with silvery scales and may be accompanied by itching or burning. Our physicians can help differentiate psoriasis from allergic or atopic rashes and coordinate care with dermatology specialists when needed.

● Other Skin Rashes: Fungal (such as ringworm), viral (like chickenpox or measles), and bacterial infections (such as impetigo) can all present with distinctive rashes. Our providers can distinguish between allergic and infectious causes, ensuring you receive the appropriate treatment.

● When to Seek Care: The appearance, location, and associated symptoms of a rash provide important clues to its cause. If you or your child experiences a rash that is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face or throat, seek prompt medical attention.

At Allergy & Asthma Care Rockland, we know that rashes can be alarming—especially when they appear suddenly or are accompanied by other symptoms. Many rashes in children and adults are caused by infections, which can be either viral or bacterial in origin. Understanding the difference is important for proper care and peace of mind.

● Viral Rashes

Viral rashes often develop as your body’s immune system responds to a viral infection. These rashes are usually widespread, red, and may be flat or slightly raised. Common viral illnesses associated with rashes include measles, chickenpox, and roseola. Patients frequently experience other symptoms, such as fever, cough, sore throat, or general fatigue. Viral rashes tend to resolve on their own as the infection runs its course and typically do not require antibiotics. However, in children or individuals with asthma and allergies, immune responses can sometimes be more intense, making evaluation important.

● Bacterial Rashes

Bacterial rashes, such as those caused by impetigo or cellulitis, are often more localized, appearing as red, swollen, and sometimes painful patches. These may develop blisters, pus, or yellowish crusts. Bacterial rashes often require antibiotics to prevent complications, particularly in those with underlying conditions like asthma or compromised skin from eczema—a condition frequently managed at our practice.

Because many rashes can mimic allergic reactions or eczema flare-ups, our team at Allergy & Asthma Care Rockland is trained to distinguish between infectious rashes and those related to allergies or immune responses. We carefully evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and rash appearance—and, if necessary, utilize lab tests to reach an accurate diagnosis.

At Allergy & Asthma Care Rockland, we specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of allergic rashes, including contact dermatitis, hives (urticaria), and drug allergies. The first step in effective management is a thorough evaluation to identify the specific substance or trigger responsible for your reaction. Our expert team utilizes state-of-the-art allergy testing to help pinpoint these triggers, so they can be avoided in the future.

Once the cause of your rash is determined, we develop a personalized treatment plan aimed at relieving symptoms and reducing inflammation. For mild allergic rashes, we often recommend soothing measures such as cool compresses and the use of gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers to help prevent further irritation. Over-the-counter antihistamines—such as cetirizine or loratadine—can also be effective in controlling itching and calming the allergic response. For more bothersome rashes, our providers may prescribe topical corticosteroid creams or ointments to further reduce inflammation and discomfort.

If your rash is widespread, causes significant discomfort, or is accompanied by symptoms such as facial swelling, lip swelling, or difficulty breathing, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms may indicate a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), which requires urgent treatment. At Allergy & Asthma Care Rockland, our team is prepared to provide rapid assessment and intervention should a serious reaction occur.

At Allergy & Asthma Care Rockland, we understand that skin rashes can be concerning—especially for individuals with a history of allergies or asthma. According to Dr. Joel H. Selter, MD, rashes may develop for many reasons, including allergic reactions, environmental irritants, infections, or underlying medical conditions. Because some rashes can signal serious allergic responses or complications related to asthma, it’s important to know when expert evaluation is needed.

You should contact our office promptly if you experience any of the following with your rash:

● Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction: fever, difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips or face, wheezing, or feeling generally unwell

● Widespread rash, appears suddenly, or spreads rapidly

● Associated with severe pain, blistering, peeling, or open sores

● Signs of infection: pus, increasing redness, warmth, or swelling around the rash

● Rashes that persist for more than a few days without improvement

If you have a history of allergies or asthma and develop a rash alongside symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, or swelling, immediate evaluation is critical, as these may be signs of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).

When in doubt, don’t wait—contact Dr. Selter and the team for expert diagnosis and treatment. Our specialized approach ensures you receive care tailored to your allergy and asthma needs, helping you find relief and peace of mind. For more information, call us or book an online appointment. We have convenient locations to serve you in Suffern, NY and Monroe, NY. We serve patients from