Red welts on the skin can be indicators of a common rash, bacterial or fungal infection, and in certain instances of a skin disorder or internal disease. Most individuals will experience some form of rash or hives during their lifetime most, starting with “diaper rash” and a case of poison oak or ivy. Often red welts on the skin will clear on their own without the need for specialty treatments. When the red welts are recurring or do not clear on their own medications may be necessary and in more severe cases a visit to the doctor required.
Red Welts on the Skin – Common Skin Irritations
The most common skin rash among adults is seborrheic dermatitis. Seborrheic dermatitis (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001959/) is characterized by red, whitish, or yellowish scaly skin usually found on the head, face, and ears, and other oily areas of the skin. In infants it is often referred to as “Cradle Cap” due to its prevalence with infants. Seborrheic dermatitis can be treated with dandruff shampoos that contain one of the following ingredients: salicylic acid, coal tar, zinc, resorcin, ketonazole, or selenium. On the skin topical immune modulators can be used.
Another common cause of welts on skin is contact dermatitis. An allergic or chemical reaction on the skin, your skin must physically come into direct contact with an irritant for contact dermatitis. Red welts are commonly found on the neck and other parts of the body where nickel jewelry is worn. Other irritants may be ingredients in shampoos, soaps, and laundry detergents as well as specific allergies to certain fabrics. Poison oak and poison ivy are also caused by contact dermatitis. Especially in cases of poison oak and ivy it is important not to itch as the welts can begin to weep and are very uncomfortable.
Red Welts on the Skin – Chronic Skin Conditions
Eczema is a common skin disorder that can be found on both children and adults. Eczema is characterized by red, itchy, weeping rash on the skin. It can be found on the joints such as the ankles, elbows, and knees, the cheeks, and neck. A link has been shown between asthma and hay fever and eczema, underlying a histamine cause of the skin welts (http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/05/090518213939.htm). Scientist found that untreated cases of eczema led to atopic skin march, triggering the symptoms of asthma. Statistically 50-70% of children with eczema will develop asthma. As dry skin can also be a cause, omega-3 supplements can help eczema. Psoriasis is another condition that forms in bumpy patches and red welts on the skin. Often times painful, psoriasis sufferers may need specialty prescription medication to manage outbreaks.
