Skin rashes are one of the most common afflictions, there are many different types and causes. Skin rashes are often defined by extreme itchiness, red dots or bumps on the skin, welts, pus-filled bumps, and other signs of irritation. In most cases, skin rashes occur when you come into contact with something in the environment, but they can also result from a viral or bacterial infection.
Traditionally, the only way to treat skin rashes was with home remedies and by waiting for the rash to pass. Now, however, there are many medications and treatments that can ease the painful and irritating symptoms of a skin rash and help speed up your recovery.
There are two basic types of medications that are used to treat skin conditions – topical creams and oral drugs. Topical medications usually come in the form of creams and get rubbed on top of the rash, whereas oral medications are taken by mouth. Here are some of the most common medications to treat skin rashes.
Depending on the type of skin rash you have and what’s causing it, you may need to combine multiple medications. You should only do so, however, if your doctor recommends it.
In addition to oral and topical medications, there are also at-home remedies and treatments that can help with a skin rash. A warm, colloidal oatmeal bath, for instance, is extremely effective at relieving itchy and irritating symptoms of a skin rash. Soaps and shampoos containing coal tar can also help relieve symptoms.
As with all drugs and medications, there are potential side effects that skin rash medications can cause. Oral corticosteroids and steroids, for example, can cause drowsiness, dizziness, headaches, irritation, numbness and tingling, unexpected weight gain, and more. Topical creams, when they’re first applied, can cause a burning or stinging sensation on the skin, or even make the rash worse if you’re allergic to the cream.
Because of these potential side effects, it’s important to consult your doctor before taking medications for skin rashes.
While there are several home remedies for skin rashes, there are also plenty of topical and oral medications. In most cases, oral and topical medications are more effective and will result in a quicker recovery and fewer symptoms than home remedies. It is important to consult a doctor as some rashes can be contagious.