Rashes

Most skin rashes aren’t a major health concern. When they’re accompanied by certain symptoms, such as blisters or pain, skin rashes can be a sign of a serious or life-threatening underlying condition. Sometimes referred to as dermatitis, a variety of conditions causes rashes, including anaphylaxis, meningitis and viral and bacterial infections.

If you or a family member has a full-body rash, come to Goshen Hospital Emergency Department. We have the diagnostic tools and expertise to evaluate your skin rash to determine the best treatment. Our dedicated emergency room Colleagues are experienced in emergency treatment for a wide range of conditions.

When to seek emergency care for a skin rash

You may experience the following symptoms along with a full-body rash:

• Sudden and rapid spread of the rash – This is another sign to go to the emergency room. If you have trouble breathing, call 911 instead.
• Blisters – Blistering rashes that progress quickly to skin peeling or raw areas need emergency treatment.
• Fever – This symptom should prompt you to go to the emergency room right away.
• Infection – Signs of an infection include crusting, swelling, warmth, tenderness and leaking yellow or green fluid in the area. Medical treatment is necessary, but seek emergency care if a red streak is noticeable.
• Pain – Itching is common with rashes, but pain should be a red flag to seek treatment.

Healing full-body rashes at Goshen Hospital Emergency Department

Having a rash all over the body is a scary experience. You may not know what’s causing the rash or if your health is at risk. With complete lab services, our dedicated and compassionate ER team thoroughly evaluates your symptoms to reach an accurate diagnosis and create a personalized treatment plan.

You can help your emergency treatment team diagnose the cause of your full-body rash by mentioning:

• What you were doing or eating when you got the rash
• Any recent travel
• Other symptoms you have

Some rashes, such as hives and poison ivy rash, can be treated by our urgent care. Learn when you should visit the ER or urgent care and trust Goshen Health for all of your urgent medical needs.