Body rash is known to be a common condition that is associated with an abnormal change in the texture as well as colour of the skin. Body rash is known to develop because of skin inflammations. Body rash may develop instantaneously or over a period of time. There are several types of rashes, depending on the cause and they can be treated effectively by using natural remedies or traditional treatments.
Symptoms of Body Rash
Body rash causes the person to suffer from a wide range of symptoms. These symptoms often cause a great deal of discomfort to the patient. In severe cases of skin rash, it takes quite a few days or weeks for these symptoms to subside completely. Given below are some of these common symptoms.
Itchiness
Itchiness is one of the most aggravating symptoms of body rash. The affected portions of skin become extremely itchy due to certain reactions in the nerves under the skin. The patient then has a very strong desire to scratch the affected skin and this often makes the area bleed. This can lead to further complications such as skin infections. It is important to keep the affected skin clean and dry. Topical lotions that can soothe the symptom of itchiness are also helpful in such cases.
Tenderness
The affected portion of the skin often becomes very tender. The nerves and skin tissues in the area become very sensitive and this leads to pain as well. It is important to be careful while handling the affected skin. Make sure to dab the skin instead of wiping it. You must also avoid scratching the area as far as possible.
Scaling
The affected area of the skin often becomes very dry and this causes the problem of scaling. These scales start developing at a rapid rate and they start peeling off the skin. As a result of this, the skin becomes even more itchy and the affected person is prompted to scratch it. The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics states that fine lines can also develop on the skin, along with the scales.
Inflammation
The area that is affected by the rash often becomes inflamed and red. According to the University of Iowa, this condition is known as lichenification. Lichenification normally occurs when the dead skin cells keep accumulating on the surface of the skin. When this happens, the skin becomes thick and this aggravates the problem. Any inflammation on the skin must not be neglected. It must be brought to the attention of your doctor. It is also important to exercise caution while dealing with the inflamed skin as it is often very sensitive.
Fever
If the rash is infected and inflamed, it can cause the person to develop fever. According to an article published in American Family Physician, when body rash is accompanied by fever, it is an indicator of other conditions, which are serious, such as measles or scarlet fever.
Causes of Body Rash
Body rash is known to occur as a result of several conditions. KidsHealth.org states that physical contact with allergens may result in body rash. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology states that when treating an allergic reaction, it is important to avoid coming in contact with the allergen. In order to do this, one must identify the allergen that is causing the occurrence of body rash. The person must make use of antihistamines to treat the symptoms of body rash. Apart from allergies, body rash can also occur due to a skin condition called psoriasis. This condition occurs as a result of the improper functioning of the immune system. In such cases, the immune system causes the production of excessive skin cells that clump together and thicken. Celiac disease is another common cause of body rash. This condition develops when the body is unable to digest gluten. This causes the appearance of numerous tiny pimples or blisters on the surface of the skin. It is extremely important to diagnose the cause of the body rash before trying to treat it in any way.
Home Remedies for Body Rash
Chamomile
Chamomile is an herb that has been used for centuries to reduce inflammation as well as itching. The University of Maryland Medical Centre states that chamomile is an herb that can be effective in the treatment of skin rash, when applied topically to the skin and may also be effective in combatting eczema. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology publishes a review in January 2009 which states that chamomile is an herb that possesses antiallergenic, anti-inflammatory as well as pain-reducing properties. This is due to the fact that it possesses levomenol, which is a natural moisturizer that decreases itching and possesses healing properties. However, it is important to note that if you are allergic to chrysanthemums, ragweed or asters, you should avoid using this herb as well.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is considered an effective home remedy for treating body rash. It is helpful in treating body rash by reducing itchiness as well as inflammation. The RN Guide to Skin Care states oatmeal is helpful in reducing itchiness of the skin. It is also effective in dealing with the problem of inflammation as it possesses compounds such as silicon, beta-glucan and avenanthramides. The Archive of Dermatological Research states that avenanthramides exhibit anti-inflammatory properties by reducing inflammation as well as preventing itching. You can treat body rash by bathing with oatmeal or by applying a cold compress using oatmeal to the affected areas.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is an herb that is considered beneficial in the treatment of body rash as it helps in reducing the burning sensations that are associated with this condition. The American Academy of Dermatology states that aloe vera is known to have a calming effect on the skin of individuals who have sensitive skin. Aloe vera is known to possess anti-inflammatory properties that help in reducing the inflammation associated with body rash. Mayoclinic.com states that the inner flesh of the aloe vera plant exhibits healing as well as cooling properties, thereby proving helpful in relieving the burning sensation associated with body rash. You can apply aloe vera gel to the affected areas of the body to experience relief from burning as well as inflammation.
Comfrey
Comfrey is an herb that may prove effective in the treatment of body rash. The University of Maryland Medical Centre states that comfrey is an herb that has been used extensively for treating wounds. It can also be used to reduce inflammation. Comfrey is an herb that possesses a substance named allantoin, which is helpful in promoting new skin cell growth. It also decreases inflammation as well as maintains healthy skin. The root of this herb is used extensively for treating a host of health ailments. This herb can be used externally to reduce skin inflammations as well as to treat wounds. You should only take this herb orally under the supervision of your physician.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is an herb that may prove effective in treating body rash. This herb is a part of the Hamamelidaceae family and is found mostly in the United States and Canada. In her book Herbal Medicine from the Heart of the Earth, Dr. Sharol Tigner states that witch hazel possesses anti-inflammatory and astringent properties that in treating skin irritations as well as wounds, when applied topically. She also states that witch hazel possesses tannins that help in forming a protective layer on the skin lesions, thereby helping in promoting healing of the skin.
Calendula
Calendula is an herb that is known to possess antibacterial, anti-inflammatory as well as antivral properties. This herb has been used traditionally to treat a host of skin ailments such as abrasions, cuts, burns as well as rashes. Calendula is known to be helpful in increasing the supply of blood to the skin, thereby promoting quick healing of the rash. This herb is available in the form of a ointment, tincture as well as cream. This herb is considered safe to use, but may cause allergic reactions, in certain cases. It is advisable that you seek medical advice before using this herb.
Cucumber
Cucumber is considered an effective home remedy for relieving the itchiness as well as inflammation associated with body rash. The level of hydrogen in human's skin and cucumber is known to be similar, therefore, it is easier for cucumber to hydrate and reduce body rash. In her book The Herbal Drugstore, author Linda White states that cucumber is helpful in reducing irritation of the skin triggered by poisonous plants as well as other causes, when applied topically to the skin. Massage your skin with a paste made from cucumber and water.
Oak Bark
Oak bark is considered an effective herb for treating body rash associated with inflammation because it possesses anti-inflammatory properties. You can prepare a tea using this herb and soak a soft cloth in it. Following that, apply the cloth to the affected areas. This herb is known to possess a high amount of tannins, which are compounds that can interact with several medications. Consult your doctor before consuming this herb orally.
St. John's Wort
St. John's wort is an herb that is widely considered as an effective remedy for treating chronic depression. The University of Maryland Medical Centre indicates that this herb is helpful in the treatment of eczema. According to a research study stated by the UMMC, it was observed that those who used this herb for treating eczema experienced greater improvements compared to those who used a placebo. This herb is helpful in treating inflammation as well as itchiness of the skin as it possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-septic properties. This herb is widely available in the form of herbal oil that can be applied topically to the skin. You will find this oil at any medical store.
Licorice
Licorice is an herb that may prove effective in the treatment of body rash that may occur because of eczema. The University Of Maryland Medical Center states that the root of this herb is helpful in reducing burning as well as itchiness associated with eczema. The University of Pittsburgh Medical Centre indicates that according to a research study conducted, a topical cream containing one or two percent licorice root proved effective in treating eczema compared to a placebo.
Other Home Remedies for Body Rash
- Baking powder is considered an effective remedy for skin rash. You can make a paste by adding a little water to some baking powder. You can apply this paste to the affected areas.
- Olive oil is helpful in treating skin rashes as it possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Massage some olive oil once each day into your skin. You should begin to see improvements within a few days.
- Mint toothpaste is considered effective in treating body rash. Apply some toothpaste to the affected areas as it helps in reducing pain as well as itchiness.
- Make a tea from chamomile and soak a soft cloth in the tea. Place this wet cloth over the affected areas to reduce body rash.
- Almond oil is also considered helpful in the treatment of skin rashes it contains a high amount of vitamin E. Vitamin E exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that may help in reducing the symptom of inflammation which is associated with body rash. Massage some almond oil on the affected areas of your skin.
- Basil leaves are known to exhibit cooling properties. Place a few basil leaves on your skin to obtain relief from the itchiness associated with body rash.
- Mint leaves are also known to exhibit cooling properties and may help in treating body rash. Make a paste from mint leaves and apply it to the affected areas.
- Apply a paste made from fresh garlic to treat skin rashes. This remedy is effective as it possesses anti-inflammatory properties that may help in treating body rash.
Body Rash Prevention
Body rash can be prevented with the help of certain simple methods. The most important thing in such cases is to maintain a proper level of hygiene. It is extremely important to keep your skin clean and dry at all times. You must make sure to pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it roughly. It is important to note that many skin conditions are caused by sharing clothes and towels with other people. It is advisable to avoid doing so in order to be free from the problem of body rash. If you are allergic to certain things, body rash can be prevented by avoiding contact with those allergens. Diet also plays a very important role in such cases. It is important to have a diet that is rich in all the necessary vitamins and minerals.
Diet for Body Rash
There are certain foods that are able to prevent the occurrence of rashes, to a great extent. Foods that are rich in antioxidants are able to prevent allergic reactions in the body. As a result of this, the person does not suffer from body rash. Strawberries are good sources of antioxidants. Other food sources of antioxidants include spinach, carrots and kale. Make sure to consume cold-water fish, as they are loaded with essential fatty acids. These essential fatty acids are able to nourish and strengthen the immune system of the body and this in turn helps in preventing inflammations and rashes. If your body is deficient in these essential fatty acids, rashes are very likely to develop and they often become infected as well. It is important to avoid consuming foods that contain gluten. Gluten is capable of causing rashes due to the fact that it triggers certain reactions in the body. These reactions cause the person to develop red pimples on the skin, which are often painful and itchy. It is important to consume whole grain items instead of refined grains. Brown bread must be used to substitute white bread as the brown variety is devoid of gluten. People who develop allergic reactions as a result of consuming dairy products or soy products must substitute these food items with rice milk. Rice milk is not likely to cause body rash even if it is consumed in proper amounts.
Other Treatment Options for Body Rash
Niacin Supplements
This vital nutrient is part of the b-group of vitamins and is excellent for the health of the human body. A deficiency of this vitamin is capable of triggering a kind of body rash, which is known as pellagra. This causes the appearance of patches or spots on the surface of the skin. Such cases of body rash can only be treated by consuming niacin in the form of supplements or by eating foods that contain this essential vitamin.
Vitamin K Supplements
The deficiency of this vitamin can cause the person to develop rashes on their skin. Rashes that are caused by a deficiency of this vitamin are known as petechiae. Vitamin k supplements must be consumed regularly so as to reverse the symptoms of this condition. Food sources of this vitamin include spinach, cabbage, spring onions and lettuce.
Camphor and Menthol
These two ingredients have a positive effect on the symptoms of itchiness and burning. Creams containing camphor or menthol can be applied directly over the rashes. These chemicals have a soothing and cooling effect on the skin and this brings much-needed relief.
Diphenhydramine and Chlortrimeton
These drugs are very effective in the treatment of those rashes, which have caused by allergies. Both these drugs are effective antihistamines and so they are capable of preventing the body from reacting to such allergens in the future. These drugs also help to induce sleep and this is helpful in bringing relief in such cases. Make sure to use these drugs with caution.