Poison ivy, poison oak and sumac are plants that can cause redness, blotchy spots, itching, blisters and/or swelling upon contact.Īccording to Mayo Clinic, poison ivy, poison oak and sumac rashes are caused by uroshiol, an oily resin that coats the plants.Īlthough washing your skin immediately after exposure can help reduce your risk of getting a rash, the uroshiol’s oily nature can make it difficult to wash off. If the patient’s affected skin has contracted a secondary infection, antibiotics may also be necessary ( click here to learn more about antibiotics and when they should and shouldn’t be used). For many, the most effective short-term treatment is applying an anti-itch cream or a rich moisturizer and/or taking an oral allergy medication.įor eczema sufferers who can’t find relief through at-home methods, more powerful prescription topical and oral medications exist, such as hydrocortisone cream and Diphenhydramine (Benadryl), respectively. Unfortunately, eczema isn’t curable, but it is treatable. According to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), eczema affects nearly 30 percent of the U.S.
Here are some of the most common types of rashes and what they look like: EczemaĪtopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a non-contagious skin condition that’s characterized by itchy, red and dry skin. Here, we’ll show you some of the most common types of rashes, how you may be able to treat them at home and when you should see a doctor. Luckily, rashes are common occurrences and can be treated relatively easily with the right knowledge and care. No one wants to scratch an itch only to discover that a red, bumpy rash has cropped up, but the truth is that we’re all bound to get a rash at some point or another.