Much of the information we read about rashes is related to young children regarding skin conditions including diaper rash and eczema. However there are a variety of possible skin conditions that produce rashes largely in adults and they present with burning skin, bumps, hives and sores.

Some issues are more problematic than others, so here is a list of things to watch out for:

• Sudden rash—The advent of a sudden rash that spreads rapidly can be the result of a medicine or food allergy. This can cause anaphylactic shock and lead to suffocation, so immediate emergency aid is required. Get to the ER or call 911.
• Full body rash—This may be reflective of a bacterial or viral infection.
• Infected rash—Scratching the itch of a rash can break the skin and cause a bacterial infection. This can result in tantalizing yellowish-green pus leakings that need to be immediately treated to avoid further infection.
• Painful, burning rash, ouch!—Shingles anyone? A painful reignition of the chickenpox virus is often responsible, but this can also happen from sitting in a patch of virulent poison ivy.
• Fever rash—Not-so-fun things like rocky mountain spotted fever, shingles, scarlet fever, and toxic shock syndrome can cause fever rashes that are very serious allergic reactions and the complications can be life threatening.

With the wide variety of ailments that include rashes as a primary symptom, it can be hard to tell them all apart. Dr. Juan Vaillant of Old Bridge Dermatology has been treating patients for hair, skin, and nail problems for over 30 years, and has the extensive background needed to help address a variety of dermatological issues. Dr. Vaillant has successfully treated acne, eczema, dandruff, hair loss, psoriasis, and nail fungus. If you are looking for an amiable, highly skilled dermatologist, call our office in Old Bridge, NJ at (732) 679-0222 and make an appointment.