Primer on Frequent Spring and Summer Rash Types

Most of us know that things like allergies, plant growing seasons and several others are seasonal, but did you know the same can be said for several types of skin rash? That’s right – while there are certainly several rash types that are possible throughout the year in many climates, there are also some that are far more common in one part of the year or another.

At the offices of Brian J Williams, MD, PC, we’re here to help with a variety of skin rash treatment options depending on the type of rash you’re suffering from. As we get into spring and summer, what are some of the rash types that are most commonly seen at this time of year? Here are a few to keep an eye out for, plus their basic symptoms.

Heat Rash

Also known as Miliara, this is a condition that takes place when hair follicles become clogged up by the combination of heat and moisture created during warmer weather. It will create small, acne-like bumps that appear on your back and chest, and may even include more painful breakouts that are fairly significant. While heat rash is somewhat less common in Utah due to the dry climate and lack of humidity, it can and does still take place at times.

Lyme’s Disease

Many have heart of Lyme’s disease, one that’s spread primarily through a single host: Ticks. And because ticks are seen much more frequently during the warmer months than cooler months, this condition is more common as well.

In most cases, Lyme’s disease will begin as a small red bump. From here, though, it will grow into a rash that appears somewhat like a bulls-eye – with a red border around the outside, but then a space inside. Lyme’s disease can form fairly quickly after most tick bites.

PMLE

Short for polymorphous light eruption, this is a relatively common issue that may impact between 10 and 20 percent of all Americans. It’s characterized by red, highly itchy bumps on the skin that appear after major sun exposure, often repeated exposures in many cases. These bumps will often begin to show up within just a few hours after this exposure.

Poison Plants

Finally, many of us were warned as kids to stay away from plants like poison ivy, and with good reason. These plants, plus those like poison oak and poison sumac, contain major toxic allergens that create major skin issues in humans. The rashes that appear can range from red bumps to fluid-filled lesions, and often will show up within minutes or hours of contacting one of these plants. If you live or often spend time in any area where these kinds of plants exist, make sure you know what they look like and avoid them.

For more on avoiding common spring and summer rash types, or to learn about any of our dermatologist services, speak to the staff at the offices of Brian J Williams, MD, PC today.