Rashes come in a lot of different forms, some can affect the entire body, while others can only be on some parts of the body. If you have a rash, it may be causing you slight discomfort and causing you to itch and scratch constantly. If you have a rash, you're going to want it treated right away. If you're concerned about what it may be, read on for a few things that may have caused your rash. 

Poison Ivy/Poison Oak

Poison ivy may be abundant during warmer times in the year. If you stumbled upon some poison ivy, or poison oak, you may have found yourself with itchy welts all over. The oils on these plants can get onto your skin and leave you with itchy welts. If you aren't allergic to the poisonous plants, you may not have anything at all, but for those others that break out from the oils, you could end up with it everywhere. You need to be sure you change out of any clothing that you were wearing then you touched the plants, and wash your body with soap and water immediately. Using a soap such as a de-greaser soap can help get rid of the oils and prevent it from spreading further. Use a medicated ointment to alleviate any pain and to help with the itchiness.

Allergic Reaction

You could have had an allergic reaction to something such as something you ate. If you have allergies, you may be able to take an over-the-counter allergy medication to alleviate the pain, swelling and itchiness. Be sure to avoid eating whatever it is you ate to prevent this from worsening or having an issue such as this again. Make sure you go to an allergist to be diagnosed with the allergy so you know what to avoid in the future.

Shingles

If you have an itchy rash only on one side of the body, it could be caused by shingles. Shingles is a virus that lives in the body and affects those that have had chickenpox in the past. It can appear when one is stressed, during pregnancy, or in those that are older. If you have shingles, it can be extremely painful, as it affects the nerves in the body. Shingles can be treated with medication and an anti-itch ointment. 

If you have any of these rashes, or other types of rashes on the body, go to a walk-in clinic for an exam and for treatment to alleviate your itchiness and any pain associated with your rash.

To learn more about walk in clinics, contact a clinic near you.