Dermatitis, caused by allergic reactions to products, insect bites or plants, can result in a flaky rash that itches or burns. Other conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and lupus can also cause rashes. Serious conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus erythematosus may cause occasional skin rashes.
A rash can be caused by a series of inflammatory contacts. Called dermatitis, this condition often results in a flaky rash that itches or burns. The problem is often caused by allergic reactions to various consumer products, insect bites or caustic plants. Dermatitis can also appear due to any number of medical conditions, from eczema, psoriasis and shingles to lupus, arthritis and even chickenpox.
A scaly rash can appear on any surface of the skin when the oils naturally produced by the epidermis are not being produced. Cold weather is a natural cause of this problem, but only to a lesser extent. On the head, this can cause excessive dandruff. This condition is officially called dermatitis, but a more specific variety is called seborrheic dermatitis. The latter results in certain areas that break out such as behind the ears, above the eyes, around the mouth and nose, and on the scalp.
Various conditions can cause this flaky rash, from latex or rubber allergies, alcohol-based lotions or shampoos, certain cosmetic products, and clothing dyes. Plants like poison oak or poison ivy are iconic causes of dermatitis. This condition can become even more pronounced with age, emotional stress, oily skin and poor hygiene practices.
Dermatitis is only the first suspect. Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, typically manifests itself as a red, flaky rash that often itches. Psoriasis is another common skin condition that causes a rash on the joints, scalp, and nails. The drugs can cause allergic reactions leading to a rash, as well as bites or stings from various insects.
Some doctors may suspect a viral condition that is causing a flaky rash, particularly if other symptoms are present. Impetigo is a viral condition of the upper layers of the skin, creating painful red sores. Shingles, chicken pox, measles, rubella, foot and mouth disease, roseola, and scarlet fever can create a flaky rash due to a bacterial infection, particularly if the areas are relentlessly scratched and not properly moisturized .
According to the National Institutes of Health, some serious conditions can also cause this problem. Rheumatoid arthritis is a disorder that may cause occasional skin rashes. The autoimmune disease lupus erythematosus may cause a rash all over the body or, in about half of sufferers, butterfly-like patches on the nose and cheeks. A childhood disorder called Kawasaki disease also causes a rash. With these more serious conditions, several other symptoms are usually present.
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