What are the treatments for the condition?

Affected skin should be kept clean, especially if there is skin breakdown. Specific treatment depends on the cause. For instance, those with infections may need antibiotic pills or creams applied to the rash. Those with allergic reactions may need antihistamines or corticosteroid pills or creams. Those with autoimmune disorders may need medications to suppress the immune system. Those with cancer or poor circulation may need surgery.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Medications may cause allergic reactions, stomach upset, and headaches. Specific side effects depend on the medications used. For instance, antihistamines often cause drowsiness. Surgery may cause bleeding, infection, or allergic reaction to anesthesia.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

If the rash goes away, an individual may or may not need further treatment. For instance, those with diabetes or poor circulation need further treatment and monitoring even after their rashes go away. Those who have ringworm, a fungal infection of the skin, are cured after treatment. They can return to normal activities without further treatment.

How is the condition monitored?

People can monitor their own rashes at home. Those with skin breakdown need to watch for infection until the skin heals over. The provider may also want to monitor the rash periodically, depending on the cause. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.