The occurrence of blistered rashes is not something unheard of and the likely causes of such symptoms can vary from insect bite to chickenpox and herpes. Here is a list of a few types of blistered rashes and their causes.
Blisters are bumps filled with fluids which look like bubbles on top of the skin, whereas a rash is a condition of skin that is characterized by a change in texture and color of skin. These skin conditions are completely different from each other.
However, there are occasions where a combination of blisters and rashes are observed on the skin. The occurrence of rash along with blisters is not fatal, but it is always advisable to take proper medical advice and treatment, if necessary.
Few minor blistered rashes can be treated with the help of some home remedies, but the rest that are due to some severe illnesses need medical attention and proper care.
»Chickenpox
It’s a very itchy rash induced by the Varicella zoster virus. It is a highly contagious disease. The virus spreads either through air by coughing and sneezing or by coming in direct contact with the infected person.
»Poison Ivy Rash
It is an allergic dermatitis caused by urushiol, a substance found in the poison ivy’s sap. Plants like poison oak and poison sumac also contain these substances. Once in contact with the skin, it quickly penetrates into the skin causing a linear rash. Within 12 to 48 hours, one can experience blisters and itching followed by redness and swelling.
Treatment: Application of Calamine lotion or Burrow’s solution will relieve the mild rashes. Cold showers will give a soothing effect. Corticosteroid drugs can help prevent the reaction if given soon enough. Antihistamine or aspirin can be used as a treatment to reduce itching.
»Herpes Zoster or Shingles
Zoster is a viral disease, which results in the occurrence of skin rashes with blisters. Like chickenpox, herpes zoster is caused as a result of Varicella zoster virus, and is considered to be an extension of chickenpox. This is not a spreading rash, and is localized on just one side of body. Though the extent of blisters is small and limited to one area, it is an extremely painful ordeal.
Treatment: If you know that what you have is herpes zoster or shingles, do visit your doctor immediately. Usually antiviral medicines are prescribed for shingles. You should also keep the skin sores clean and germ-free. Over-the-counter pain medicines are also available for this infection.
»Impetigo
It occurs due to either of these two bacteria, Streptococcus or Staphylococcus. If your skin is injured or you have skin problems like eczema, burns, cuts, insect bites, chickenpox, etc., these bacteria penetrate into the body through these wounds. However, impetigo may also occur in completely healthy skin. Kids may get this infection under the nose area, if they have cold or allergies. Mostly, these sores happen around the nose and the mouth area.
Treatment: Antibiotic ointment or cream can be applied on the sores. Make sure you gently wash the rashes with soap and water before applying the cream.
»Dermatitis Herpetiformis
Also known as the Duhring’s disease, is not a disease but a disorder that is named after Dr. Louis Duhring, who established its connection with Celiac disease, which is gluten sensitivity or intolerance. Gluten is a type of protein that is derived from starch. Some people tend to have an intolerance towards it, and because of this, their body does not accept this starch.
Treatment: The blistering that occurs as result is chronic in nature, and is characterized by a set of blisters that occur in the form of a rash. Medical practitioners often describe these blisters to be papulovesicular eruptions, meaning that the size of one blister ranges from 1 to 10 mm. Dermatitis herpetiformis is extremely itchy in nature and appears on extensor patches of the skin. The best remedy for this disorder is a change in diet. One must note that this disorder is hereditary, and is not caused as a result of infection, nor is it contagious.
If you notice any abnormality related to these rashes, do not opt for self-medication. It is better to visit your doctor and follow proper advice.
