Rashes

Rashes services offered in Alexandria and Lansdowne, VA

A rash can be a nuisance or a sign of an underlying medical problem. If you have uncomfortable or long-lasting rashes, see the specialist at CN Internal Medicine in Alexandria and Lansdowne, Virginia, for an evaluation. The internal medicine, family medicine, and primary care providers find the causes of rashes and treat them to reduce bothersome symptoms and your risk of complications. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online.

Rashes Q&A

Rashes include bumps, hives, discoloration, or patches that develop on your skin’s surface. While rashes aren’t always a cause for concern, they can indicate a more serious medical problem requiring treatment. If you have a long-lasting rash or a rash that accompanies other worrisome symptoms, see the CN Internal Medicine team for an evaluation.

Rashes can appear as:

Red, pink, tan, or dark-colored bumps
Skin discoloration
Red patches
Hives
Itchy skin
Bumpy or rough skin patches
Other unusual skin conditions

Mild rashes might not bother you and go away on their own over time. In other cases, rashes can cause irritating discomfort and be a sign of a more serious problem.

The common causes of rashes include:

Allergic reactions
Heat
Illnesses
Some medications
Eczema
Rosacea
Scarlet fever
Infections
Immune system disorders
Skin irritants
Inflammatory conditions
Psoriasis
Acne
Ringworm
Shingles
Chickenpox
Swimmer’s itch
Hand, foot, and mouth diseases
Poison ivy, oak, and sumac

Finding the cause of your rash and treating it is the best way to reduce the chance of complications.

To determine what’s causing a rash, the CN Internal Medicine team examines your skin, completes a physical exam, and checks your blood pressure, pulse, and other vital signs. They review your medical history, symptoms, lifestyle, and medication. You might need blood tests, skin biopsies, and other diagnostic tests that allow your provider to make a diagnosis and treat the rash properly.

The CN Internal Medicine team tailors each rash treatment based on its severity and cause and your treatment preferences. They might recommend you try over-the-counter or prescription medications, use lotions, receive a shot, or undergo other allergy treatments. The treatment goal is to reduce bothersome itching and discomfort, get rid of the rash, and prevent it from reappearing. If you have a complex medical problem causing a severe rash, your CN Internal Medicine provider will refer you to another specialist or hospital care. If your rash is caused by an illness, get plenty of rest, keep a fever (if you have one) under control, and drink lots of fluids to allow your body to recover. Call the CN Internal Medicine office today or use the online scheduler to be treated for rashes.