How To Deal With Rashes

If you have a rash, you'll have raised, red patches on your skin that itch, burn, tingle, or are sore or numb. They may also look like small, red bumps all over your skin. You can get a rash from things like the detergent you use to wash your clothes or an allergic reaction to a food or medicine. Call your doctor if you think it's from medicine you are taking. Most rashes only last a few days to a week.

If your rash is very itchy, try applying calamine lotion. You can buy this at any pharmacy. If it's more sore than itchy, use diaper rash ointment. Apply a cool, wet cloth to soothe it, but don't cover the rash with a bandage because this will keep it from healing.

You need to see a doctor or go to the emergency room if:

• The rash has a ring-shaped or "bull's eye" appearance. 
• You have a fever. 
• The rash covers large areas of skin. 
• The rash area swells more each day. 
• If you feel warm, flushed, dizzy, or can't breathe. 
• The rash is around your eye and your eye is red.