Red Rash on the Face

Dermatologists are of the opinion that there are several causes which result in a red rash on the face. In some cases, it is intermittent―indicative of an allergic reaction, hypersensitivity, eczema, contact dermatitis, or sun rash.

Some people, especially women, whose skin can be sensitive to certain cosmetics may display a swelling or red spots on the face which may grow hard after some days.

In others, it can be linked to kidney problems, poor blood circulation, allergies, and various other complications of the skin. Sometimes medication and drugs can cause an allergy and often, it can also be a reaction to stress.

◾ To diagnose the rash, stand in front of a mirror and take a good look at it. A round, hard, red, and non-scaly rash on the face represents the possibility of an insect bite.

◾ Sometimes, the rash can appear in the form of small pimples or bumps that may spread to other parts of the body like the neck, hands, back etc. In case these problems persist for a long time or seem to occur in specific seasons, do not delay in consulting a medical expert.

◾ In some situations the facial rash is a foreboding symptom of other problems elsewhere in the body, such as systemic lupus.

◾ Other common causes include acne, dermatitis, mild allergic reactions, and inflammatory disorders. A reaction thus caused will be relatively easy to treat, and won't result in any permanent damage.

◾ In case the rash is accompanied by other symptoms like shortness of breath, wheezing, or swelling of the face, lips or tongue it may indicate the presence of a more serious, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. This calls for immediate medical attention, so call 911, in case you notice this happening.

◾ If you notice a sudden or acute facial rash, the reason is most probably an allergic reaction or sensitivity to a particular substance, such as cosmetics, food, or medication.

◾ A chronic or long-term facial rash can be the result of acne or an inflammatory disorder like rosacea. Rosacea is characterized by facial flushing, particularly on the cheeks and the nose. Your dermatologist will suggest an appropriate line of treatment after analyzing your symptoms.

◾ Other causes include stress and anxiety, dandruff, folliculitis, methamphetamine abuse, dermatitis, prickly heat, etc.

Diagnosis of the condition requires a thorough description of the lesion, shape, arrangement, distribution, duration, symptoms, and history. The information helps the doctor to pin the causes to various environmental factors and constitutional symptoms together, coming to a definitive conclusion. Based on this, the course of treatment is formulated.

Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.