In today’s world, the human body is being bombarded with chemicals that affect our health. Whether the source of the chemicals is the food we eat, the water we drink, or the air we breathe, the body is no doubt going to be adversely affected. The skin is no exception to being negatively affected by a variety of agents. Usually the skin problem that results is a skin rash.
Everyone has experienced a skin rash in his or her lifetime. In fact, for many a skin rash problem was experienced early in life. As a child, almost all of us have experienced a diaper rash. However, there are other reasons why a rash, hives, or welts develop on the skin. Therefore, an individual is always looking for information to properly “diagnose my skin rash.”
Why does a skin rash problem develop? Viruses can cause a rash problem. For example chicken pox virus (shingles in adults) or HIV typically result in a skin rash. Bacteria can also be a source of the problem. Examples are the strep bacterium, which causes strep throat. A skin rash often accompanies a strep throat problem. Sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis can lead to skin problems as well.
Sometimes a rash on the skin develops for reasons that are more benign. Stress can trigger a skin rash in some individuals. Heat and excessive sweating can do the same.
Insects and spiders, whether they bite or sting can produce a variety of skin rash types. These can be local in nature or cover the whole body if an individual is allergic to the bug bite. Plants such as poison ivy and poison oak are problematic as well, and will cause skin rashes and blistering.
Many drugs can lead to skin issues. A penicillin allergy and penicillin rash are common in many people. Other types of drugs such as lamictal, which is used to prevent seizures or in the treatment of depression, has also been known to cause skin problems.
Chemicals will cause rashes. Chlorine in swimming pools affects those who swim often. This is often referred to as swimmer’s itch, or swimming pool rash. A rash known as chemical dermatitis will develop in people that are repeatedly in contact with chemicals.