What causes red patches on the skin?

Red patches on the skin may be caused by a variety of reasons, including skin inflammation, allergic reactions, infections or chronic skin diseases . The specific cause needs to be determined based on the characteristics of the patches, accompanying symptoms and personal health status. Treatment methods include local care, drug treatment and medical consultation.

Skin inflammation

Common skin inflammations such as eczema and dermatitis may cause red patches. Eczema is usually accompanied by itching and dry skin, while dermatitis may be caused by contact with irritants. Treatment methods include using a mild moisturizer to relieve dryness and avoiding contact with irritants such as soaps and detergents. If necessary, topical hormone ointments such as hydrocortisone ointment or oral antihistamines such as loratadine can be used.

Allergic reactions

Skin contact with allergens or ingestion of allergic foods may cause red patches, such as hives. The patches usually appear quickly and are accompanied by significant itching. Treatment methods include avoiding contact with known allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. Antihistamines, such as cetirizine, or topical anti-itching ointments, such as calamine lotion, can be used. Severe allergic reactions require prompt medical attention.

Infection:

Bacterial, fungal or viral infections may cause red patches on the skin, such as ringworm and herpes zoster. Ringworm is usually ring-shaped and accompanied by desquamation; herpes zoster is characterized by red patches distributed in bands and accompanied by pain. Treatment methods include the use of antifungal drugs, such as clotrimazole ointment, or antiviral drugs, such as acyclovir. People with infectious skin diseases need to pay attention to personal hygiene and avoid sharing towels and clothes with others.

Chronic skin diseases

Chronic skin diseases such as psoriasis and lupus erythematosus may also cause red plaques. Plaques of psoriasis are usually covered with silvery-white scales, while lupus erythematosus may be accompanied by systemic symptoms such as joint pain and fever. Treatment methods include the use of topical ointments, such as vitamin D3 derivatives, or oral immunosuppressants, such as methotrexate. Chronic skin diseases require long-term management and regular medical monitoring.

Red patches on the skin may be the result of a variety of reasons, and appropriate measures should be taken according to the specific situation. Mild symptoms can be relieved through local care and drug treatment, but if the patches persist, are accompanied by severe symptoms or affect the quality of life, you should seek medical attention in time, make a clear diagnosis and carry out targeted treatment. In daily life, keeping the skin clean and avoiding contact with irritants and allergens can help prevent the occurrence of skin problems.