Types of Rashes: What They Are and How to Treat Them

At Allergy & Asthma Care Rockland, we frequently help patients of all ages who are struggling with rashes and skin irritations. Many rashes are closely linked to allergies or immune system responses, making our practice uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat these conditions.

One of the most common rashes we see is atopic dermatitis (eczema), which often affects children but can also persist into adulthood. Eczema typically appears as itchy, red, and inflamed patches of skin and is frequently associated with allergies or asthma—a connection we specialize in managing. Contact dermatitis is another frequent concern, resulting from the skin’s reaction to certain irritants or allergens such as plants, fragrances, or chemicals. Our team can help identify your specific triggers through allergy testing and guide you in avoiding them, while also providing effective treatments to relieve your symptoms.

Hives (urticaria) are another common allergic skin reaction we treat at our practice. Hives appear as raised, itchy welts and can be triggered by foods, medications, insect stings, or even stress. Our allergy specialists can help pinpoint the cause and provide strategies to prevent future outbreaks. Other skin conditions we evaluate and manage include psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, fungal infections like ringworm, and rashes related to viral infections. While not all rashes are allergy-related, our expertise ensures a thorough evaluation and a tailored treatment plan, whether the cause is allergic, infectious, or environmental.

Determining the cause of a skin rash can be challenging, especially since many rashes look similar but stem from different sources. At Allergy & Asthma Care Rockland, we often help patients identify whether their rash is the result of allergies, asthma-related sensitivities, or other immune system triggers. To help us diagnose your rash, start by noting its appearance—consider the color, texture, and shape. Is your rash flat, raised, blistered, or scaly? Does it form rings or unique patterns? Take note of where the rash appears and whether it’s confined to one area or widespread.

It’s also important to think about any recent exposures or activities. Have you come into contact with new soaps, detergents, plants, pets, or foods? Did you recently start any new medications? These details are especially important for our allergists, as many rashes are triggered by allergic reactions to substances in your environment.

Pay attention to additional symptoms such as itching, swelling, wheezing, or difficulty breathing. Rashes accompanied by these symptoms could indicate a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) or an underlying condition related to allergies or asthma. If you notice rapid spreading of the rash, facial swelling, trouble breathing, or high fever, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Taking clear photos of your rash before your appointment can help our team at Allergy & Asthma Care Rockland make an accurate diagnosis.

If you develop a rash that is persistent, spreading, or accompanied by symptoms such as fever, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or severe discomfort, it is important to seek prompt medical attention. At Allergy & Asthma Care Rockland, Dr. Joel H. Selter, MD, specializes in the diagnosis and management of rashes and skin reactions related to allergies and asthma.

You should consider scheduling an appointment with Dr. Selter if your rash may be associated with allergic triggers—such as foods, medications, environmental allergens (like pollen, pet dander, or mold), or if you have a history of asthma. Dr. Selter provides expert evaluation to determine whether your rash is part of an allergic reaction and offers personalized treatment plans to help you find relief.

Additionally, if over-the-counter treatments are ineffective, your rash recurs frequently, or you have a personal or family history of allergies or asthma, our team can provide a thorough assessment and advanced care. Early intervention is especially important if you are unsure of the cause of your rash, if it is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, or if it affects your quality of life.

At Allergy & Asthma Care Rockland, we understand that rashes can be a source of concern for many patients and their families. One common question we receive is whether a rash is contagious. The answer depends on the underlying cause of the rash.

Some rashes are caused by infectious agents—such as viruses, bacteria, or fungi. For example, conditions like chickenpox, measles, impetigo, or ringworm can be spread from person to person through direct contact, respiratory droplets, or contaminated surfaces. If you or your child develops a rash that may be related to an infection, it is important to take precautions to prevent spreading it to others until it has been properly evaluated and treated.

However, many rashes we see at our practice are not contagious. Allergic reactions, eczema, and contact dermatitis are common causes of rashes that result from your body’s immune response to allergens, irritants, or triggers in the environment. These types of rashes cannot be passed from one person to another.

Because it can be difficult to tell the difference just by looking, we recommend making an appointment at Allergy & Asthma Care Rockland if you or a family member develops a new, unexplained rash—especially if it is accompanied by symptoms like fever, pain, or is spreading quickly. Our experienced providers can help determine the cause and recommend the most effective treatment. For more information, contact us or book an online appointment. We have convenient locations to serve you in Suffern, NY and Monroe, NY. We serve patients from Suffern NY, Monroe NY, New City NY, Spring Valley NY, Monsey NY, Airmont NY and Mahwah NJ.