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Highlighting Pityriasis Rosea Causes

Many skin growths, moles, or blemishes are completely harmless. If an individual should develop one of these, they should speak to their doctor or dermatologist about it. Usually, they will be left alone and you will have to monitor it for any change in shape, size or color. You should always be aware of any changes to your skin.

Pityrasis Rosea is a common skin rash. Many times it can be confused with other skin aliments, so it is important to have your doctor examine it. It usually starts out as a large, scaly, pink patch. The rashes are usually oval in shape. The patches many times will develop and form a pattern that looks like an evergreen or Christmas tree. The patches can become very itchy, especially if they are covered up and not allowed to receive air. The center can appear to be wrinkled, and the skin will be red and inflamed. Pityrasis Rosea, can leave dark brown spots on individual who have a darker skin tone.

Who can get them?

Pityrasis Rosea can affect individuals of all ages. It seems to be more prevalent in children and young adults. It is common in individuals between the ages of fifteen and thirty-five. It equally affects both males and females, but females report a slightly higher occurrence of Pityriasis Rosea.

What can cause them?

The exact cause of Pityriasis Rosea is unknown. There is some evidence to suggest that a virus may cause it. The aliment is not contagious, but it is possible for another person to develop it if someone else in the family has it.

How does it happen?

Pityriasis Rosea just appears on an individual skin. It usually starts out as a single rash, and then spreads to form other rashes.

Where do they appear?

Pityriasis Rosea usually appears on the chest, back, arms, and legs, it may also appear on the neck. They can appear during any time of the year, but is more common in the spring and the fall.

What are the symptoms?

Pityriasis Rosea starts out as a large scaly, patch that will first appear on an individual’s back or chest. This patch is often referred to as the herald patch. The patch can appear to be one to two centimeters in diameter on the individual’s body. This is followed by another series of rashes that will appear over the next few days. The patches seem to be oval in shape, and the center appears to be wrinkled. The rash can last anywhere from three to twelve weeks. The rash can appear red and irritating at times. Other symptoms include tiredness and an achy feeling. The rash will disappear on its own after a few weeks; however, it can last longer.

How can it be diagnosed?

Most of the time a doctor or dermatologists can quickly diagnosis Pityriasis Rosea, due to its distinctive pattern formation. The doctor can also take a sample of the skin, by conducting a skin biopsy. Blood tests can also be done to confirm the diagnosis.

What treatments are available for Pityriasis Rosea?

Pityriasis Rosea if left alone will fade and disappear within a couple of weeks after they have first appeared. However, some treatments are available to help reduce some of the symptoms that accompany this aliment.

In order to reduce the itching, a doctor can prescribe a hydrocortisone cream, you can also take antihistamines. If you are achy, the doctor might tell you to take some form of a pain medication. Also, moderate sun exposure seems to have a positive affect on this skin aliment.

Lukewater baths are suggested to soothe the individual. Bathing in an oatmeal bath, seems to also relieve some of the symptoms of Pityriasis Rosea. The rash should not be covered up or heat placed on it, as it will make the rash worse and more uncomfortable for the individual. In rare and extreme cases, antiviral drugs or steroids can be taken.

While most skin rashes can be harmless, many of the symptoms can be uncomfortable to deal with. If an individual develops Pityriasis Rosea or any other type of skin aliment you should consult with your doctor to make sure that it gets the proper attention.