Top 10 Causes Of Red Blotchy Skin
Depending on the appearance and location of your red blotchy skin it could be caused from any number of things. Only your physician or a dermatologist will be able to determine an exact diagnosis and treatment plan but this helpful guide may be able to assist you in deciphering the problem yourself. Below are the top 10 causes of unsightly, irritating, red blotchy skin.
- Acne – Predominantly attacking adolescents and teenagers, however, there are adult acne cases as well. If your face, back or chest is covered in red bumps, pimples or blackheads you should try an over the counter treatment for acne and use a mild soap without any fragrances or dyes. Keep the skin clean and pull your hair up off your face or neck as the oils can worsen the situation. If this does not help then your doctor will be able to prescribe you something more effective.
- Rosacea – This is a skin disease that targets the face. If you have a flushed appearance characterized by red cheeks, nose, chin or forehead you may want to look into antibiotics for severe symptoms, otherwise treatment is not usually necessary.
- Boils – A cluster of boils can leave you with red blotchy skin along with painful bumps. Compressing them with a warm cloth should cause them to come to a head, pop and drain however, if they do not pop or if they spread you should call your doctor.
- Folliculitis – An infection of hair follicles will usually heal on their own. You need to keep the area clean and if needed, use an antibiotic ointment. If the condition worsens or shows no sign of improvement, call your doctor.
- Insect Bites – Sudden random bumps and red blotchy skin is probably due to insect bites. They are generally not harmful but you should use a hydrocortisone cream and an antihistamine to help with the itching. If new symptoms are added such as nausea, dizziness or difficulty breathing you need to get to an emergency room right away. You could either be having a severe allergic reaction or you may have been bit by something poisonous.
- Hives – These can arise from an allergic reaction, medicine, infection or occasionally just simply because the affected person becomes very nervous. They are characterized by bumps along with red blotchy skin on your body or face. A cold compress and an antihistamine should help with the itching. If they are accompanied with difficulty breathing or swelling around the lips you should seek medical attention immediately.
- Irritant Contact Dermatitis – A red, scaling rash could be caused from irritants such as perfumes, detergents or jewelry. You should avoid whatever caused the reaction and apply either a hydrocortisone cream or some other type of soothing lotion.
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Allergic Contact Dermatitis – If your red blotchy skin is accompanied by an itchy rash along with the presence of blisters forming, you may be having an allergic reaction most commonly caused by poison sumac or poison oak. You should thoroughly wash the area just in case there are any oils from the plant lingering on your skin and change your clothes. Apply a calamine lotion or a hydrocortisone cream to help with the itching. The rash should vanish in about a week however if symptoms get worse and a fever becomes present you should call your doctor.
- Fifth Disease – If the individual being affected has bright red blotchy skin around the cheeks after a fever has gone away this could be fifth disease. It is equally as common in children and adults. Cold medicine should clear this up however, if the rash spreads or if you are pregnant you should call your doctor.
- Syphilis – This sexually transmitted disease will cause red blotchy skin, primarily on the soles of your feet or the palms of your hands however it will not be itchy at all. If you think you may have syphilis you need to seek out medical attention right away for treatment options. This will not go away by itself and the longer you put off treatment the higher chance you have of suffering from serious side effects.