Pityriasis Rosea: Be Informed To Be Safe

Pityriasis Rosea is a type of skin rash. Though in most of the cases, it is not that severe but there have been reported cases that may cause discomfort. The cause of the infection is not fixed or certain, but studies in past have suggested a viral infection as the general cause. The infection generally begins with a herald patch which may or may not be severe. This is just the inception and within a week or a fortnight, there are visible patches of pink and red, flaky, oval-shaped rashes on most of the areas including torso, armpit. The infection is a bit unsettling due extreme skin dryness and itching. The fact that fazes more is that the more you scratch, the worse itching gets. In severe cases and not quite often, the infection is accompanied by fever, headache, nausea and fatigue.

Another predicament of Pityriasis Rosea is that it is, prima facie, difficult to diagnose attributing to its similarities with lyme disease, ringworm, psoriasis and eczema. It is advised to visit a good dermatologist so he can validate the existence of the disease. One should check if they are having the following symptoms that include, inter alia, discrete circular or oval lesions with scaling on most of the lesions, the lesions were preceded by any kind of herald patch, if there are any small vesicles at the center and any clinical or serological evidence of secondary syphilis. The infection is generally not at all painful. There is though redness of skin, severe itching at times and respiratory problems in severe conditions. It is not a chronic infection but requires quick redressal.

In mild cases, Pityriasis Rosea does not require any treatment. But one should prefer taking proper medication. The symptoms are generally treatable via over the counter medications. Antihistamines are known to be effective to treat itching. Though before taking any kind of medicine one should consult his or her physician to avoid further allergies. One can also use calamine lotions for relief and generic moisturizers for skin healing. Also, it is advised to avoid use of irritants such as fragrant soaps, wool, hot water, wool and synthetic fabrics. The infection generally lasts for two weeks but in severe cases may extend to five-six months. Proper precautions must be taken.