About this topic
A viral exanthem is a skin rash or eruption that shows up as your body is fighting off a virus. Another reason can be because of a drug you took. A virus is a kind of germ that spreads easily from one person to another. Some rashes are very specific to the kind of virus that is causing them. Others just look like blotchy red spots on the body. Often, you never find out exactly which virus causes the rash. Some rashes may be a sign of a serious illness. They may also be more serious if you are pregnant. ‚
What are the causes?
A viral exanthem may be caused by many kinds of viruses like: ‚
- Measles
- Chickenpox
- Roseola
- Rubella
- Fifth disease
- Hand, Foot, and Mouth disease
- And others
What are the main signs?
The rash is a sign of the infection. You may have other signs like: ‚
- Fever
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Tiredness
- Your skin may be dry and itch. You may have bumps or blisters on your skin. Your skin may become red or have a burning feeling. It may be sore to touch your skin. There may be small cracks in your skin. You may have clear drainage coming from the bumps on your skin.
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will take your history and look over your skin and into your mouth as part of an exam. Your doctor will ask about how the rash started and any other signs you have. The doctor will want to know about your contact with substances either at home or at work, and any drugs you are taking. Tell your doctor if you have been around other people with a rash. ‚
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Care depends on what is causing your rash. It is also based on how bad your rash is. Your doctor may order: ‚
- Warm oatmeal baths to help with itching. You may also need drugs to help with itching.
- Skin moisturizers, steroid creams, or ointments to help with irritation
- Steroid drugs if you have very bad signs that are not helped with other treatments
- Drugs to treat a skin infection
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Some viral exanthems can be prevented with vaccines. Be sure you and everyone in your household are up to date on all of your shots.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 15 seconds. Alcohol based hand sanitizers also work to kill germs.
- Stay away from others while you have this rash. The virus that is causing it can be passed on to other people.
Where can I learn more?
Kids Health ‚
http://kidshealth.org/parent/dictionary/v/az-viral-exanthem.html ‚
New Zealand Dermatologic Society ‚
http://www.dermnetnz.org/doctors/viral-infections/specific-exanthems.html ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
Copyright
Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚