What should you know about skin rash types?

Flat colour change may accompany irritation or inflammation. Raised itchy patches can occur with dermatitis or an allergic response; thick scale can occur with psoriasis; a ring-shaped scaly edge can suggest ringworm; intense night-time itch may raise concern about scabies. Moist redness in a skin fold can fit intertrigo, while tiny prickly bumps after heat may fit heat rash. These clues guide assessment but do not replace an examination.

Note when the rash started, where it began, whether it is spreading, and whether it itches, burns, hurts, flakes, or leaks fluid. Photograph it in consistent light. Use lukewarm water, a gentle cleanser, a bland moisturiser, and loose breathable clothing. Avoid scratching and pause newly introduced products. Do not share towels or bedding when an infection is possible, and seek advice before applying several medicated creams.

Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, facial swelling, faintness, widespread blistering, skin peeling, or sores in the mouth or eyes. Seek prompt assessment for fever, severe pain, pus, rapidly spreading redness, or a rash that follows a new medicine. Arrange a routine review for a rash that persists, repeatedly returns, affects sleep, or cannot be explained by a recent exposure.

Which features of my rash are most useful for identifying its cause? Could this fit dermatitis, psoriasis, ringworm, scabies, heat rash, or intertrigo? Should I avoid work, sport, shared towels, or a particular product? What treatment is suitable for this location and my other medicines?