What should you know about skin rashes that itch?

Atopic dermatitis commonly presents with intense itching and dry, inflamed skin. Contact dermatitis can itch where skin meets an irritant or allergen. Scabies often causes marked itching that may be worse at night and can affect close contacts. Ringworm may itch at the edge of a scaly, expanding patch. Heat rash appears as small itchy bumps in hot, sweaty areas. Psoriasis can itch, especially when plaques are dry or cracked; intertrigo causes soreness and itch in moist folds. A drug rash may follow a newly started medicine and needs careful review.

Keep nails short, use cool compresses, wear loose breathable clothing, and moisturise after bathing with a fragrance-free product. Avoid hot showers, vigorous rubbing, and fragranced products. Try not to scratch, since broken skin can become infected. Record when the itch began, where it is strongest, and any new medicines, foods, products, travel, or close-contact symptoms. A pharmacist or clinician can help choose treatment after seeing the rash.

Get emergency help if itching comes with breathing difficulty, throat or tongue swelling, faintness, or widespread raised welts. Seek prompt medical care for blistering, peeling, mouth or eye involvement, fever, severe pain, pus, or rapid spread. Arrange an appointment when the itch disrupts sleep, persists despite gentle care, recurs, or affects several people in the home. A rash after a new medicine should be reviewed promptly.

Does the distribution suggest eczema, contact dermatitis, scabies, or a fungal infection? What can relieve the itch without worsening the rash? Should household contacts or recent medicines be considered?