1. Food Allergy

One of the common causes of skin rashes is a food allergy. Although food allergies are often associated with anaphylaxis, they also cause gastrointestinal problems, congestion, and rashes. When people develop rashes as a result of a food allergy they often develop hives, which make the skin red, swollen, and itchy. If you think a food allergy may be causing your rash, you should see an allergist. You can also try eliminating the suspect food for 6 weeks to see if that helps.

2. Medication Allergies

Medication allergies that cause skin rashes are also called drug eruptions, and they should be taken seriously. If you develop a rash while you are taking a medication, you need to contact your doctor immediately. Rashes caused by medications are a sign of a serious allergy.

3. Autoimmune Diseases

An autoimmune disease occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body. There are many different types of autoimmune diseases, and there are several that cause rashes. For example, psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes a scaly, red rash that can itch and burn. Systemic lupus is another autoimmune disease that can give people rashes. In fact, one of the tell-tale signs of lupus is a butterfly shaped rash over the bridge of the nose.

4. Infections

There are many different types of infections that can give you a rash. One of the most common infections that results in a rash is chickenpox, which is a virus that causes itchy blisters all over the body. While it is common to vaccinate for chickenpox, people do still get the virus and the itchy rash. Other infections, like skin infections caused by bacteria or yeast, can also result in a rash. Rashes that are caused by an infection need to be treated by a doctor, so be sure to see your doctor if you develop a rash.

5. Heat

Heat rash is a surprisingly common rash that people can get anytime of year, but especially in the summer. This rash is caused by sweat blocking the pores, and it often forms in skin folds. Cooling the area down, keeping it dry, and reducing friction can help get rid of a heat rash.

6. Stress

Stress can wreak havoc on the body in many ways, including causing a rash. When you are stressed a chemical reaction in the body occurs that makes the skin more sensitive. When people are in stressful situations, they sometimes break out in hives. The best way to combat a rash caused by stress is to practice stress reduction techniques like meditation.

7. Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis occurs when skin comes in contact with an allergen or irritant. One of the most common causes of contact dermatitis is poison ivy. However, anything can cause contact dermatitis. Laundry soap can even result in a contact dermatitis rash.

Having a rash can be miserable; however, if you know what is causing it you can often get rid of the rash. If you have a rash, make an appointment with your doctor so they can help determine the cause. Did you know there were so many different causes of rashes?

Sources: foodallergy.org, psoriasis.org, everydayhealth.com, webmd.com, medicinenet.com