Stomach rash

Redness or itching in an area touched by a product may fit Contact Dermatitis. Heat, sweat, and skin folds can contribute to Heat Rash or Intertrigo. Scaly patches may occur with Atopic Dermatitis or Psoriasis, while a ring-shaped expanding edge can occur with Ringworm. Scabies often causes intense itch and may affect close contacts. A new rash after starting a medicine can be a Drug Rash. These patterns overlap, so a photograph and examination are more useful than guessing from colour alone.

Stop newly introduced fragranced products and avoid scratching. Wash gently with lukewarm water, pat dry, keep folds dry, and wear loose breathable clothing. Do not share towels if an infection is possible, and avoid applying steroid or antifungal creams without advice when the diagnosis is unclear. Note when the rash began, whether it spreads, what it feels like, recent medicines, travel, illness, and whether anyone else is itchy.

Arrange medical review for a rash that persists, spreads, becomes painful, forms blisters, or does not improve after removing an irritant. Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, facial swelling, skin peeling, mouth or eye involvement, fever with a rapidly spreading rash, or severe illness. A rash during pregnancy or after a new medicine also merits prompt advice.

Ask what features identify the rash, whether testing is needed, which treatment is safe for the location, how to prevent spread, and what change should prompt urgent review.