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Rash, Age 12 and Older

Overview

Rash in teens and adults: Overview

Healthy skin provides a barrier between the inside of the body and the outside environment. A rash means that some change has affected the skin.

In many cases, rashes are caused by skin irritation, which can have many causes. A rash is often a minor problem that may go away with home treatment. But sometimes a rash doesn't go away, or the skin may get so irritated that medical care is needed.

In adults and older children, rashes are often caused by contact with a substance that irritates the skin (contact dermatitis, Opens dialog). Contact dermatitis may cause mild redness of the skin or a rash of small red bumps. A more severe reaction may cause swelling, redness, and larger blisters. The location of the rash may give you a clue about the cause.

Contact dermatitis doesn't always occur the first time you are in contact with the irritating substance (allergen, Opens dialog). After you've had a reaction to the substance, a rash can occur in response to even very small amounts of the substance. Contact dermatitis isn't serious, but it's often very itchy. Common causes include:

  • Poisonous plants, such as poison ivy, oak, or sumac, Opens dialog.
  • Soaps, detergents, shampoos, perfumes, cosmetics, or lotions.
  • Jewelry or fabrics.
  • New tools, toys, appliances, or other objects.
  • Latex. Allergy to natural rubber latex affects people who are exposed to rubber products on a regular basis. It's often seen in health care workers, rubber industry workers, and people who've had multiple surgeries. Latex allergies can cause a severe reaction.

Rashes may occur with:

Rashes may also occur as a symptom of a more serious disease, such as liver disease, kidney disease, or some types of cancer.

Rashes may appear after exposure to an insect or a parasite, such as the scabies, Opens dialog mite. You may get a rash when you travel to a rural area or go hiking or camping in the woods.

A rash may be a sign of a chronic skin problem, such as acne, Opens dialog, eczema, Opens dialog, psoriasis, Opens dialog, or seborrheic dermatitis, Opens dialog. Other causes of rashes include dry, cold weather; extremely hot weather (heat rash); and emotional stress.

Some medicines can cause a rash as a side effect. A very rare and serious type of generalized (whole-body) red rash called toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). TEN can cause the skin to peel away, leaving large areas of tissue that weep or ooze fluid like a severe burn. TEN may occur after the use of some medicines. If this type of rash occurs, you need to see a doctor.

The need for medical treatment often depends on what other symptoms you have. A rash that occurs with other symptoms, such as shortness of breath or fever, may mean another problem, such as a serious allergic reaction, Opens dialog or infection.

Information about Rash, Age 12 and Older

Current as of: November 16, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.