But its important to evaluate skin abnormalities thoughtfully and seek medical attention if youre unsure.
Also, look for other signs of illness in your body.
Take this quiz to help you identify the signs of a serious rash.
Certain signs indicate a rash may be part of a serious health problem that requires medical attention.
However, many rashes may not appear as serious as they are, and vice versa.
When in doubt, always call a trusted health provider.
Diagnosing a Rash
Rashes come in many shapes and sizes and look different depending on skin tone.
Sometimes, youll see small blisters or bumps.
Other times, rashes appear as large patches of scaly, itchy skin.
Simply examining the rash can provide a doctor with information about its potential cause.
Many rash-causing conditions have characteristic symptoms and respond easily to treatment.
Still, some rashes may require a biopsy or a sample to be analyzed in a lab.
This can help determine the cause of the rash and identify the most effective treatments.
Academy of American Dermatology.Rash 101 in adults: when to seek medical treatment.
Ely JW, Seabury Stone M.The generalized rash: part I.
Differential diagnosis.Am Fam Physician.
2010 Mar 15;81(6):726-34.
