Rashes on legs and feet

What Does Lower Leg Redness Mean? 6 Causes of Red Rash on Lower Legs

The most common causes of what looks like a rash or red dots on the lower legs are either immune-mediated inflammation like eczema or psoriasis, or a skin infection like cellulitis. Other causes of red blotches on the lower legs can arise from an allergic reaction to certain foods or contact with poisonous plants. Read below for more information on on other causes, related symptoms like swollen ankles or scaly skin on lower legs, and treatment options.

4 most common causes

Actinic Keratosis

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Contact Dermatitis

Cellulitis

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Lower leg redness symptoms explained

Lower leg redness can be caused by a host of conditions, both benign and more concerning. One of the most common and serious is cellulitis, an infection of the skin. Veins that cannot carry blood back to the heart can cause a backup and blockage of the arteries of the leg can also cause pain in the leg. Finally, a simple and very common rash like psoriasis or eczema can also cause redness in the lower legs.

Common characteristics lower leg redness

Associated characteristics of lower leg redness may include the following.

• Dry, scaly, flaky, or leathery skin that may be intensely itchy
• Skin plaques: Large, red, scaly patches of skin that persist.
• Pain or swelling of the leg or legs
• Warmth of the area
• A visible bump or bumps
• Abscess: A pus- or fluid-filled bump in the skin indicating an infection.

What causes redness in lower legs?

Causes of lower leg redness can be categorized as infectious, due to blood vessels or blood flow, and various forms of inflammation.

Infectious causes

Infections of the skin or the blood vessels of the leg are serious because it can track from the skin into the blood or muscle and lead to shock or infection of the fascia which can cause amputation or death.

• Cellulitis: This can cause an area of inflammation because of the entry of bacteria into the skin. It is one of the most common causes of skin infection. Usually, cellulitis affects older adults and can occur in individuals with no underlying conditions. Abscesses typically occur when the skin barrier is disrupted due to trauma, skin inflammation (e.g. psoriasis or eczema) or swelling due to lymphedema or venous backup. Most cases of cellulitis are caused by streptococcus a type of bacterium that lives on the skin though cellulitis can be caused by animal bites, plant thorns, and bacteria that live in the mouth or the nose, in the case of a bite. Cases are almost universally treated with antibiotics when they come to medical attention.
• Suppurative thrombophlebitis: This refers to an infected blood clot in the veins of the lower extremities. When the vein is superficial, treatment is optional, but when the clot is in a deep vein (deep vein thrombosis or DVT), treatment is necessary to cause the clot to dissipate, to prevent recurrence, and to the prevent the clot traveling to the lungs and causing a pulmonary embolism (PE). Without either extraction or dissolution of the clot, the infection will not disappear. Because it is already in a vein, it will continuous allow small flecks of bacteria into the venous system which may travel through the blood and cause serious illness.
• Skin abscess: This is a collection of pus within the skin or just beneath the skin which can cause overlying redness and even feed infection of the skin causing a cellulitis. Generally, the treatment for an abscess is through an incision and drainage procedure, where the area is then packed with material that will keep it from closing and allow it to heal from the bottom of the wound outward.

Blood vessels

The backup of blood into the legs can cause redness as blood pools in the lower extremities. There are many causes of backup and the most common and one of the most dangerous is covered below.

• Venous stasis dermatitis: This is a common cause of inflammation of the skin and occurs in individuals who have "chronic venous insufficiency" or veins that are unable to help blood move upward toward the heart. Generally, venous statous dermatitis causes red, scaly, dry patches across the leg. Often swelling and redness are most severe at the ankle. The rash is not often itchy, but when it is scratched, it can cause inflammation of the lower leg. Over time the leg may darken as a chemical in the blood begins to stain surrounding tissues. Occasionally, inflammation of the fat can occur and this can cause pain in both legs. Venous stasis is managed frequently through compression, walking, and in rare cases, by drugs that help make the vein less flaccid (e. g. phlebotonic drugs).
• Compartment syndrome: Like any disorder that blocks blood flow, the structure of the foot can cause inflammation as the cells that are deprived of oxygen struggle to survive with decreased blood flow. This is generally a very quick process and the only treatment is to restore blood flow to the lower leg as well as oxygen. This is done by decompressing the leg with a fasciotomy, in which the leg is opened to allow swollen tissue to swell outward instead of inward. When the tissue has stopped swelling, the leg is reclosed. This is a medical emergency needing immediate attention.

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Immune-mediated inflammation

Rashes are common and can affect the legs. Not every cause of redness in the lower legs is life- or limb-threatening. It is possible to have redness from common rashes that may affect the arms, back, or belly as well.

• Eczema: This is also known as atopic dermatitis and refers to a long-term, itchy, and red skin disorder. It commonly affects children but can also affect adults. In adults, eczema is usually localized to the areas of the body that flex and tends to result in thickened and very itchy skin. Skin affected by eczema may also be reactive and turn red with minimal irritation or contact. Eczema may cause red bumps either on its own or because of scratching caused by intense itchiness.
• Psoriasis: This most commonly causes plaques or very large scales across the body. They may appear on the knees or backside but can also occur on the legs. Often these red areas are very distinct margins and may be reddened in people with lighter pigment and darkened in people with darker pigment. In some rare types of psoriasis (e.g. erythrodermic psoriasis) redness and scaling may be present throughout the body from head to toe.

This list does not constitute medical advice and may not accurately represent what you have.

Irritant contact dermatitis

Irritant contact dermatitis means a skin reaction that is caused by directly touching an irritating substance, and not by an infectious agent such as a bacteria or virus.

Common causes are soap, bleach, cleaning agents, chemicals, and even water. Almost any substance can cause it with prolonged exposure. Contact dermatitis is not contagious.

Anyone who works with an irritating substance can contract the condition. Mechanics, beauticians, housekeepers, restaurant workers, and health care providers are all susceptible.

Symptoms include skin that feels swollen, stiff, and dry, and becomes cracked and blistered with painful open sores.

A medical provider can give the best advice on how to heal the skin and avoid further irritation. Self-treatment can make the problem worse if the wrong creams or ointments are used.

Diagnosis is made through patient history, to find out what substances the patient comes into contact with, and through physical examination of the damaged skin.

Treatment involves avoiding the irritating substance if possible. Otherwise, the person can use petroleum jelly on the hands underneath cotton and then rubber gloves.

Rarity: Common

Top Symptoms: rash with well-defined border, itchy rash, red or pink, rough patch of skin, painful rash, red rash

Symptoms that always occur with irritant contact dermatitis: rash with well-defined border

Symptoms that never occur with irritant contact dermatitis: fever, black-colored skin changes, brown-colored skin changes, blue-colored skin changes

Urgency: Self-treatment

Squamous cell carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a type of skin cancer. The most common spots for this cancer are the head (including scalp, lips, ears, and mouth), legs, and the backs of the hands and the arms. It appears on the skin as a tiny, painless bump or patch. The main risk factor for developing this condition is prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Sun exposure and tanning beds are both sources of UV radiation. People with a history of sunburns, previous skin cancer, and a weakened immune system are at higher risk for this condition.

Most cases of SCC can be easily treated because they grow slowly. Though if not treated, it can spread inside the body. Your provider will do a skin exam and possibly skin sample test, known as a biopsy. Treatment will depend on where the cancer is, its size, and your medical history. Some treatment options include cutting out the bump, freezing it, or using medicated skin cream.

Rarity: Uncommon

Top Symptoms: worsening face redness, rough skin on the face, scabbed area of the face

Urgency: Primary care doctor

Solar (actinic) keratosis

Actinic keratosis, also known as solar keratosis, is the most common skin condition caused by sun damage over many years. It appears as small, rough, raised growths that may be hard and warty.

You should visit your primary care physician to have the affected skin evaluated. There are several treatments for actinic keratosis, including freezing the keratosis with liquid nitrogen, or applying a cream or gel. Some keratoses will disappear on their own within a year.

Rarity: Common

Top Symptoms: unchanged face redness, rough skin on the face, thickened skin with a well-defined border

Urgency: Primary care doctor

Cellulitis

Crohn's disease is an inflammation of the bowel. It is caused by a faulty immune system response which makes the body attack the lining of the intestines.

The disease usually appears before age thirty and can affect anyone. Those with a family history may be most susceptible. Smoking is a known risk factor.

Aggravating factors include stress, poor diet, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and aspirin.

Early symptoms usually develop gradually, but can appear suddenly. These include fatigue, loss of appetite, fever, mouth sores, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and blood in stool.

Untreated Crohn's disease can cause ulcers throughout the digestive tract as well as bowel obstruction, malnutrition, and deteriorating general health.

Diagnosis is made through blood test and stool sample test. Colonoscopy, CT scan, MRI, endoscopy, and/or enteroscopy may also be used.

Crohn's disease cannot be cured, but can be managed through reducing the inflammation. Antibiotics, corticosteroids, and immune system suppressors may be tried. Excellent nutrition, vitamin supplements, smoking cessation, and reduction in stress can be helpful.

Rarity: Uncommon

Top Symptoms: fever, chills, facial redness, swollen face, face pain

Symptoms that always occur with cellulitis: facial redness, area of skin redness

Urgency: Primary care doctor

Allergic reaction to poison ivy/oak/sumac

Plants of the Toxicodendron genus are found throughout the continental United States, and exposure to these plants is a leading cause of contact dermititis, a medical term used to describe irritation and itching of the skin.

Firstly, to prevent allergic reaction to poison ivy from getting worse, wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water. Over-the-counter antihistamines such as Benadryl can help with the swelling and itching. Topical corticosteroids applied directly to the rash can also help relieve some of your symptoms

Rarity: Common

Top Symptoms: rash, itchy rash, red rash, skin changes on arm, stinging or burning rash

Symptoms that always occur with allergic reaction to poison ivy/oak/sumac: itchy rash, rash

Symptoms that never occur with allergic reaction to poison ivy/oak/sumac: fever

Urgency: Self-treatment

Allergic contact dermatitis of the lower leg

Allergic contact dermatitis means the skin has touched something that provoked an allergic reaction, causing inflammation and irritation.

"Contact" means the allergic reaction came from touching something, not from consuming something. The first exposure to the substance sensitizes the immune system, and then the second exposure actually causes the symptoms.

The most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis are:

• Nickel, a metal often used in belt buckles, the buttons on pants, and jewelry, including piercing jewelry.
• Poison ivy.
• Various types of perfumes, including those founds in soaps, fabric softeners, and detergents.
• Of course, there are many more.

Symptoms include red, itching, scaling, flaking skin that may be painful due to the irritation and inflammation.

Diagnosis is made through first avoiding contact with any suspected substance, to see if the dermatitis clears. Patch testing can be done if the results are not certain.

Treatment involves fully avoiding the allergy-provoking substance and using topical steroid cream as prescribed. Cool compresses and calamine lotion can help to ease the discomfort.

Rarity: Common

Top Symptoms: lower leg redness, lower leg itch, scabbed area of the lower leg

Symptoms that always occur with allergic contact dermatitis of the lower leg: lower leg redness

Urgency: Self-treatment

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Treatments for red and swollen lower legs

When to see a doctor for lower leg redness

Treatment depends on the cause of redness. Blocked vessels should be unclogged, pooling blood should be moved, rashes should be treated, and infections should be cured. Some details are covered below; however, seeing a medical professional may be necessary for proper treatment.

• Dissolving a clot: If you suspect that your redness is caused by a clot that is infected, you will likely need treatment to treat or dissolve the clot and to treat the underlying infection. To begin these medications, you may need to be admitted to the hospital.
• Compression clothing: If you suspect that your redness is caused by chronic pooling of blood in the lower extremities, clothes that compress the legs (e.g. compression socks) are essential tools to channel blood up and out of the vasculature and back toward the heart. They can both prevent swelling and decrease already chronic swelling.
• Rash treatment: Rashes like eczema or psoriasis are frequently treated with steroid creams, by altering the diet or your exposure to allergens, or even anti-itch medications if redness is produced by scratching.
• Antibiotics: Cellulitis and other rashes caused by infection must be treated with appropriate antibiotics that are sufficient to eliminate the causative bacteria.

When lower leg redness is an emergency

You should seek help without delay if:

• You lose feeling in your lower legs
• You feel intense pain in your legs
• You feel short of breath, feel chest pain, or feel as though you might lose consciousness
• Your leg swelling does not improve over time
• Your leg feels colder than its partner

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FAQs about lower leg redness

How does lower leg redness develop?

Lower leg redness is usually caused by inflammation, specifically dilation of blood vessels in the lower leg after some sort of damage to the leg. Damage is a broad term, but anything that causes the body to begin an inflammatory process or anything that causes the body to send extra blood cells to an area can cause lower leg redness. Additionally, redness can also be caused if the body is unable to remove fluid from a limb because of damage to the vessels that carry fluid or damage to the pump (e.g. heart) that moves fluid.

What are common causes of lower leg redness?

Lower leg redness is usually caused by inflammation of the skin along the lower leg. Inflammation of the skin can be caused by injury to the skin via infection or a lack of blood outflow from the leg. Damage to lymph nodes, non-healing wounds or ulcers, blood clots, or arterial blockage are all important mechanisms that may cause lower leg redness. Each of these mechanisms can cause blood or lymph to build up in the leg, and when that fluid is unable to drain, this can predispose you to infection.

How can I prevent the most common causes of lower leg redness?

The most common causes of lower leg redness are likely mild trauma, sunburn, or mild infection. Preventing mild trauma can be done by wearing clothing that covers the legs and being careful to not over-exert yourself while exercising. Stretching beforehand and making yourself aware of the potential causes of injury may also prevent mild trauma. Sunscreen, appropriate clothing, and a conservative effort to stay out of the sun can prevent sunburn. Mild infections can be prevented by wearing proper clothing to prevent scratches and bruises.

What signs suggest that lower leg redness is dangerous or life-threatening?

Lower leg redness on a single leg and a change in temperature (e.g. warmer or cooler than the opposing leg), a loss of sensation, swelling, loss of motion, or a loss of pulse are all signs that you may have a condition that requires emergency care. You may need a physician to assess for subtle signs of pulselessness or swelling in the lower leg that may be signs of a limb-threatening or life-threatening condition.

How long does lower leg redness usually last?

Lower leg redness is commonly caused by infection, and in mild cases, if the body is able to clear the infection, it can do so in two weeks or less. Stubborn infections may last longer and need medical treatment. Other medical conditions can also contribute significantly to lower leg redness, including clots blocking blood flow and damage to arterial circulation.

Questions your doctor may ask about lower leg redness

• Is the red area flaky and rough to the touch?
• Any fever today or during the last week?
• Did your symptoms start after you were exposed to nickel (commonly found in jean snaps, metal pens, paper clips, cigarettes, etc.)?
• Did you possibly brush into poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac?

Self-diagnose with our free Buoy Assistant if you answer yes on any of these questions.

Jeffrey M. Rothschild, MD, MPH.

Associate Professor of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital

Dr. Rothschild has been a faculty member at Brigham and Women’s Hospital where he is an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. He currently practices as a hospitalist at Newton Wellesley Hospital. In 1978, Dr. Rothschild received his MD at the Medical College of Wisconsin and trained in internal medicine followed by a fellowship in critical care medicine. He also received an MP...

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22 Common Skin Rashes, Pictures, Causes & Treatment

Rashes have a variety of causes, from bites to chickenpox to serious conditions like drug allergies. Seek medical attention if home remedies do not help or if you also have symptoms such as fever or dizziness.

A rash is any area of irritated or swollen skin on your body. Rashes are often itchy and painful and can appear differently on different skin tones. While they are often described as red, on darker skin tones they may be purple, gray, or white.

There are many different causes of rashes. Here’s a list of 22 potential causes with pictures.

Warning: graphic images ahead.

Fleabites

Share on PinterestFlea bites of the lower leg causing red bumps and scabbing. Angela Hampton Picture Library / Alamy Stock Photo

• usually located in clusters on the lower legs and feet
• itchy, small red bumps on lighter skin tones, and more plum-like in color on darker skin tones
• symptoms begin immediately after being bitten

Read the full article on fleabites.

Fifth disease

Share on PinterestFifth disease is a viral illness caused by parvovirus, which can cause a ‘slapped cheek’ rash. Kardelen Yang?n Via Wikipedia

• symptoms include headache, fatigue, low fever, sore throat, runny nose, diarrhea, and nausea
• children are more likely than adults to experience a rash
• round, bright red rash on the cheeks, but it may be less noticeable on darker skin tones
• usually after the face rash, a lacy-patterned rash may appear on the arms, legs, and upper body and might be more visible after a hot shower or bath

Read the full article on fifth disease.

Rosacea

Share on PinterestWeinkle, A. P., Doktor, V., & Emer, J. (2015). Update on the management of rosacea. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology, 8, 159–177. https://doi.org/10.2147/CCID.S58940

• chronic (long-term) skin disease that goes through cycles of fading and relapse
• relapses may be triggered by spicy foods, alcoholic beverages, sunlight, stress, and the intestinal bacteria Helicobacter pylori
• the four subtypes of rosacea encompass a wide variety of symptoms
• common symptoms include facial flushing, raised red bumps, facial redness, skin dryness, and skin sensitivity
• on darker skin tones, brown or yellowish-brown bumps may appear, and the rash can have a dusky coloration

Read the full article on rosacea.

Impetigo

Share on PinterestThis image also depicts impetigo on dark skin. Photography courtesy of Grook Da Oger/Wikimedia

• most common in children 2 to 5 years old, but can happen at any age
• often located in the area around the mouth, chin, and nose
• irritating rash and fluid-filled blisters that pop easily and form a honey-colored crust
• can also appear brown, purple, or gray on darker skin tones

Read the full article on impetigo.

Ringworm

Share on PinterestRingworm on the face of a child. BSIP SA / Alamy Stock Photo

• itchy, circular scaly patches with raised borders
• on lighter skin tones, the patches can appear pink or red
• on darker skin tones, the patches can appear gray or brown
• skin in the middle of the ring appears clearer, and the edges of the ring may spread outward

Read the full article on ringworm.

Contact dermatitis

Share on PinterestContact dermatitis of the arm. vvoe/Shutterstock

• appears hours to days after contact with an allergen
• has visible borders and typically appears where your skin touched the irritating substance
• on lighter skin tones, it can appear red
• on darker skin tones, it may be less noticeable
• may have blisters that weep, ooze, or become crusty
• typically itchy, scaly, or raw

Read the full article on contact dermatitis.

Allergic eczema

Share on PinterestDmitriy SIMAKOV/Getty Images

• may resemble a burn
• often found on hands and forearms
• skin is itchy, scaly, or raw
• may have blisters that weep, ooze, or become crusty
• on lighter skin tones, it can appear red
• on darker skin tones, it can cause darker brown, purple, or gray patches

Read the full article on allergic eczema.

Hand, foot, and mouth disease

Share on PinterestHand-foot-and-mouth disease MidgleyDJ at en.wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

• usually affects children under age 5
• painful, red blisters in the mouth and on the tongue and gums
• flat or raised red spots located on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet
• on darker skin tones, it can be skin-colored or grayish-brown
• spots may also appear on the buttocks or genital area

Read the full article on hand, foot, and mouth disease.

Diaper rash

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• located on areas that have contact with a diaper
• skin looks red, wet, and slightly lighter or darker than typical skin color
• may be warm to the touch

Read the full article on diaper rash.

Eczema

Share on PinterestBenislav/Shuttertstock

• dry, rough, flaky, inflamed, and irritated skin
• affected areas may be red and itchy
• hair loss may occur in the area with the rash
• on darker skin tones, it can appear as darker brown or gray patches

Read the full article on eczema.

Psoriasis

Share on PinterestPsoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition that causes dry, scaly plaques on the skin. It is immune system mediated, and genetics likely also play a role. Vitek2808/Shutterstock

• scaly, silvery, sharply defined skin patches
• on darker skin tones, it may look darker than the surrounding skin or it might appear purple
• commonly located on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back
• may be itchy or asymptomatic

Read the full article on psoriasis.

Chickenpox

Share on PinterestChild with chickenpox Grook da oger, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

• clusters of itchy, red, fluid-filled blisters in various stages of healing all over the body
• on darker skin tones, it can be red, the same as the natural skin tone, or a little darker; scabs can appear gray
• rash is accompanied by fever, body aches, sore throat, and loss of appetite
• remains contagious until all blisters have crusted over

Read the full article on chickenpox.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

Share on Pinterestbutterfly rash.SLE systemic lupus erythematosus

• an autoimmune disease that displays a wide variety of symptoms and affects many body systems and organs
• a wide array of skin and mucous membrane symptoms that range from rashes to ulcers
• classic butterfly-shaped face rash that crosses from cheek to cheek over the nose
• can appear bright red on lighter skin tones
• on darker skin tones, it may appear red, brown, or darker than the original skin color
• rashes may appear or get worse with sun exposure

Read the full article on systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Share on Pinterestchatuphot/Shutterstock

• painful rash that may burn, tingle, or itch, even if there are no blisters present
• clusters of fluid-filled blisters that break easily and weep fluid
• rash emerges in a band-like pattern that appears most commonly on the torso, but may occur on other parts of the body, including the face
• may be accompanied by low fever, chills, headache, or fatigue

Read the full article on shingles.

Cellulitis

Share on PinterestCellulitis of the lower legs. TisforThan/Shutterstock

This condition is considered a medical emergency. Urgent care is required.

• caused by bacteria or fungi entering through a crack or cut in the skin
• tends to be red or pink
• it may appear less obvious on darker skin tones and can also look brown, gray, or purple
• painful, swollen skin with or without oozing that spreads quickly
• hot and tender to the touch
• might be a sign of serious infection requiring medical attention

Read the full article on cellulitis.

Drug allergy

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This condition is considered a medical emergency. Urgent care is required.

• mild to severe itchy, red rash may occur days to weeks after taking a drug
• severe drug allergies can be life threatening, and symptoms include rash, blisters, hives, racing heart, swelling, itching, and difficulty breathing
• other symptoms include fever, stomach upset, and tiny purple or red dots on the skin

Read the full article on drug allergies.

Scabies

Share on PinterestScabies is an itchy skin infestation with mites. Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

• symptoms may take 2 to 5 weeks to appear
• extremely itchy rash with small bumps that may be scaly
• raised, white, or flesh-toned lines

Read the full article on scabies.

Measles

Share on PinterestMeasles on the torso of a child phichet chaiyabin/Shutterstock

• symptoms include fever, sore throat, red watery eyes, loss of appetite, cough, and runny nose
• depending on skin tone, the rash may be red, skin-colored, or darker than the natural skin color
• the rash spreads from the face down the body 3 to 5 days after first symptoms appear
• tiny white spots with bluish-white centers on a red background can appear inside the mouth

Read the full article on measles.

Tick bite

Share on PinterestAitor Diago/Getty Images

• painless and causes only minor signs and symptoms, such as a change in skin color, swelling, or a sore on the skin
• rash, burning sensation, or blisters
• difficulty breathing, which requires immediate medical attention
• the tick often remains attached to the skin for a long time
• bites rarely appear in groups
• may look like a target, circular, expanding — 70 to 80 percent of people with Lyme disease will have this rash

Read the full article on tick bites.

Seborrheic eczema

Share on PinterestZay Nyi Nyi/Shutterstock

• yellow or white scaly patches that flake off
• affected areas may be red — though they may appear faint on darker skin tones —, itchy, greasy, yellowish or white patches
• hair loss may occur in the rash area

Read the full article on seborrheic eczema.

Scarlet fever

Share on PinterestChild with scarlet fever rash and rosy cheeks badobadop, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

• occurs at the same time as or right after a strep throat infection
• rash is made up of tiny bumps that make it feel like “sandpaper”
• bright red tongue
• people with lighter skin tones can have a bright red rash all over the body (but not on the palms of your hands and soles of your feet)
• on people with darker skin tones, it may be more difficult to see the rash, but their skin will have a sandpaper-like texture

Read the full article on scarlet fever.

Kawasaki disease

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This condition is considered a medical emergency. Urgent care is required.

• usually affects children under age 5
• red cracked lips, swollen tongue (strawberry tongue), high fever, swollen red palms and soles of the feet, swollen lymph nodes, bloodshot eyes
• can be harder to recognize on darker skin tones
• may cause severe heart problems

Read the full article on Kawasaki disease.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is one of the most common causes of rashes. This type of rash occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with a foreign substance that causes an adverse reaction, leading to a rash. The resulting rash may be itchy, red, or inflamed.

Possible causes of contact dermatitis include:

• beauty products
• soaps
• laundry detergent
• dyes in clothing
• chemicals in rubber, elastic, or latex
• poisonous plants, such as poison oak, poison ivy, or poison sumac

Medications

Taking medications may also cause rashes. They can form as a result of:

• an allergic reaction to the medication
• a side effect of the medication
• photosensitivity from the medication

Other causes

Other possible causes of rashes include the following:

• A rash can sometimes develop in the area of a bug bite, such as a fleabite. Tick bites are of particular concern because they can transmit disease.
• Atopic dermatitis, the most common form of eczema, is a rash that may be more common in people with asthma or allergies. The rash is often reddish, though it can be skin-colored or darker on people with darker skin tones. It can be itchy with a scaly texture.
• Psoriasis is a common skin condition that can cause a scaly, itchy, red, or purplish rash to form along the scalp, elbows, and joints.
• Seborrheic eczema is a type of eczema that most often affects the scalp and causes redness, scaly patches, and dandruff. It can also occur on the ears, brows, or nose. When babies have it, it’s known as cradle cap.
• Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease that can trigger a rash on the cheeks and nose. This rash is known as a “butterfly,” or malar, rash.
• Rosacea is a chronic skin condition of unknown cause. There are several types of rosacea, but all are characterized by redness and rash on the face.
• Ringworm is a fungal infection that causes a distinctive ring-shaped rash. The same fungus that causes ringworm on the body and the scalp also causes jock itch and athlete’s foot.
• Diaper rash is a common skin irritation in infants and toddlers. It can be associated with prolonged exposure to a wet diaper.
• Scabies is an infestation by tiny mites that live on and burrow into your skin. It causes a bumpy, itchy rash.
• Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin. It usually appears as a red, swollen area that is painful and tender to the touch. If left untreated, the infection causing the cellulitis can spread and become life threatening.

Causes of rashes in children

Children are particularly prone to rashes that develop as a result of illnesses:

• Chickenpox is caused by a virus, and the rash is characterized by small itchy bumps and blisters that form all over the body.
• Measles is a viral respiratory infection that causes a widespread rash consisting of itchy, red bumps.
• Scarlet fever is an infection due to group A Streptococcus bacteria that produces a toxin, causing a bright red or skin-tone-colored, sandpaper-like rash.
• Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a viral infection that can cause red lesions on the mouth and a rash on the hands and feet.
• Fifth disease is a viral infection that causes a red, flat rash on the torso, arms, and legs.
• Kawasaki disease is a rare but serious illness that triggers a rash and fever in the early stages and can lead to heart complications.
• Impetigo is a contagious bacterial infection that causes an itchy, crusty rash and yellow, fluid-filled sores on the affected area, such as the face, neck, or hands.

You can treat most contact rashes, but it depends on the cause. Follow these guidelines to help ease discomfort and speed up the healing process:

• Use mild, gentle cleansers instead of scented bar soaps.
• Use warm water instead of hot water for washing your skin and hair.
• Pat the rash dry instead of rubbing it.
• Let the rash breathe. If it’s possible, avoid covering it with clothing.
• Stop using new cosmetics or lotions that may have triggered the rash.
• Apply unscented moisturizing lotion to areas affected by eczema.
• Avoid scratching the rash because doing so can make it worse and could lead to infection.
• Apply an over-the-counter (OTC) hydrocortisone cream to the affected area if the rash is very itchy and causing discomfort. Calamine lotion can also help relieve rashes from chickenpox, poison ivy, or poison oak.
• Take an oatmeal bath. This can soothe the itchiness associated with rashes from eczema or psoriasis. Here’s how to make an oatmeal bath.
• Wash your hair and scalp regularly with dandruff shampoo if you have dandruff along with a rash. Medicated dandruff shampoo is commonly available at drugstores, but your doctor can prescribe stronger types if you need them.

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications

Talk with a healthcare professional, who may recommend OTC medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to treat mild pain associated with the rash.

Avoid taking these medications for an extended period because they can have side effects. Ask a healthcare professional how long it’s safe for you to take them. You may not be able to take them if you have liver or kidney disease or a history of stomach ulcers.

Call a healthcare professional if the rash doesn’t go away with home remedies. You should also contact them if you’re experiencing other symptoms in addition to your rash and you suspect you have an illness.

If you don’t already have a physician, you can use the Healthline FindCare tool to find a professional near you.

Go to the hospital immediately if you experience a rash along with any of the following symptoms:

• increasing pain or discoloration in the rash area
• tightness or itchiness in the throat
• difficulty breathing
• swelling of the face or limbs
• fever of 100. 4°F (38°C) or higher
• confusion
• dizziness
• severe head or neck pain
• repeated vomiting or diarrhea

Contact a healthcare professional if you have a rash as well as other systemic symptoms, including:

• joint pain
• a sore throat
• red streaks or tender areas near the rash
• a recent tick bite or animal bite

Your healthcare professional will perform a physical exam and inspect your rash. Expect to answer questions about your:

• rash
• medical history
• diet
• recent use of products or medications
• hygiene

Your healthcare professional may also:

• take your temperature
• order tests, such as an allergy test or complete blood count
• perform a skin biopsy, which involves taking a small sample of skin tissue for analysis
• refer you to a specialist, such as a dermatologist, for further evaluation

Your healthcare professional may also prescribe medication or medicated lotion to relieve your rash. Most people can treat their rashes effectively with medical treatments and home care.

Follow these tips if you have a rash:

• Use home remedies to soothe mild contact rashes.
• Identify potential triggers for the rash and avoid them as much as possible.
• Call a healthcare professional if the rash doesn’t go away with home treatments. You should also contact them if you’re experiencing other symptoms in addition to your rash and you suspect you have an illness.
• Carefully follow any treatments your doctor prescribes. Speak with a healthcare professional if your rash persists or gets worse despite treatment.

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Read the article in Spanish.

Rash on the legs

09/13/2021

Sometimes you can wake up and find rashes on your legs. Usually they are not given much importance, referring to the fact that they were bitten by a mosquito

or something similar. But this approach is an unforgivable mistake, because this rash can be not just an allergic reaction ,

but also the result of a serious illness. In order to prevent further complications, it is worthwhile to carefully understand the cause of its occurrence. nine0003

Types of rashes

Blisters, pustules, nodules, plaques, blisters, scales, spots - all of these apply to rashes. But separately we will consider such a type of rash as

hemorrhagic rash on legs . You can recognize it by dots, spots or stripes that are bright red, purple or black.

It is definitely difficult to say what caused this rash, because the list of diseases that can cause it is quite extensive. nine0003

This could be meningitis , hemophilia, von Willebrand disease, or some other hereditary or infectious disease.

The rash may be short-lived or may linger for quite some time. The rash usually disappears after a few days.

If the rash does not want to disappear, then some chronic disease may be the cause. As soon as you notice that you have a different

kind of rash, then do not be afraid to waste time and be sure to make an appointment with a doctor , because your health is much more important than any minutes spent.

Causes of the rash on legs

As mentioned above, it is impossible to say unequivocally what caused the rash. The body can react in this way to some

medicines or even to dust if you have not cleaned your house for a long time. As a rule, such a rash does not linger for a long time, but disappears at

as soon as possible after elimination of the cause of allergy .

Fungal diseases are another matter. If you have problems with hygiene or wear shoes of poor quality, then you may develop such fungal

diseases as ringworm or contact dermatitis , which in turn will cause an unnecessary rash on the toes . Legs legs may react with rashes