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Rash Specialist

Elk Grove Dermatology

Medical, Surgical and Cosmetic Dermatology Practice located in Elk Grove Village, IL

Rashes lead to unbearable symptoms like intense itching and unsightly bumps, but the talented staff at Elk Grove Dermatology can ease your symptoms. Located in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, Dr. Polisky is not only a board-certified dermatologist, but he’s also a board-certified internist. This expertise helps him identify the cause of your rash in order to recommend the most effective treatment possible. If you’re suffering from a skin rash, schedule a consultation at Elk Grove Dermatology online or by phone.

Rash Q & A

What is a rash?

A rash isn’t a specific medical diagnosis; it’s a term used to describe a red or discolored area of your skin that’s irritated or swollen.

There are several ways to identify rashes. Rashes with small, flat red patches are referred to as macular, while rashes with raised red bumps are papular. If both flat and raised bumps are present, your rash is maculopapular. When blisters are present, you have a vesicular rash.

Rashes can appear in people of all ages, and nearly everyone will have a rash at some point in their lives. The most common skin rashes are eczema, hives, contact dermatitis, psoriasis, and athlete’s foot.

What are the symptoms of a rash?

Skin rashes can appear with a variety of symptoms, including:

  • Itchiness or pain
  • Scaling or flakiness
  • Thick or leathery skin
  • Raw patches on the body
  • Blisters, bumps, welts, or oozing sores

Rashes can occur anywhere on your body, such as your hands and feet, face, buttocks, and genitals. They might come on suddenly or form over several days.

What causes a rash?

You can develop a skin rash because of several factors, including:

  • Illnesses like chicken pox or measles
  • Allergic reactions to foods or medications
  • Fungal, bacterial, or parasitic infections like ringworm
  • Exposure to irritants like laundry detergents or poison ivy

Some people are more susceptible than others to get rashes.

How is a rash diagnosed and treated?

A rash can either clear up fairly quickly on its own or require long-term treatment. At Elk Grove Dermatology, our providers work to identify the cause of your skin irritation and determine the most effective course of treatment.

During your comprehensive examination, the provider will review the location and appearance of your rash as well as your symptoms and medical history. Based on your condition, it might recommended to have you undergo additional screenings like allergy testing or blood work to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Depending on the cause of your rash, the provider might suggest several
types of treatment, including:

  • Moisturizers, lotions, or baths
  • Cortisone creams to relieve swelling
  • Antihistamines that reduce itching
  • Medications like immunosuppressives



To find relief from your rash symptoms, call Elk Grove Dermatology or
schedule an appointment online.