When You Visit Your Doctor - Rash

Rash

Questions to Discuss with Your Doctor:

  • How long have you had the rash?
  • Where did it start?
  • Has it spread?
  • Is the rash only on parts of your skin that have been exposed to the sun?
  • Does it itch or hurt?
  • Is the rash red, pink, or purple?
  • Is the rash smooth or bumpy?
  • Have you had sores in your mouth, eyes, or other mucous membranes?
  • Have you had blisters on your skin?
  • Have you had trouble breathing?
  • Have you had a fever?
  • Have you symptoms of an upper respiratory tract infection (for example, a cold)?
  • Have you had vomiting or diarrhea?
  • Are you taking any prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, herbs, or supplements? Did you start any of them in the past two months?
  • Have you had any new exposures to foods or chemicals?
  • Any exposure to insects?
  • Have you had any recent sun exposure?

Your Doctor Might Examine the Following Body Structures or Functions:

  • Temperature
  • Examination of your skin, mouth, eyes, mucous membranes, lymph nodes, liver, and spleen

Your Doctor Might Order the Following Lab Tests or Studies:

  • Skin scrapings for microscopic analysis or culture (if the rash looks infectious)
  • Complete blood cell count or other blood tests (if you appear sick or have a fever)
  • Skin biopsy