Skin redness - known medically as erythema - is an inflammatory skin condition that affects the superficial layer of the skin. Erythema may be caused by underlying medical conditions, medication usage, skin injury (such as sunburn), or allergic reactions.
Common symptoms of erythema include:
Painful reddish patches on the front of the legs and knees
Tender patches, sometimes known as nodules, that range in size from a dime to a quarter.
Inflamed patches that eventually decrease, flatten and leave a bruised appearance
Skin redness will usually appear in the area where the inflammation occurred. If you are experiencing the symptoms above along with symptoms such as fever, joint pain, fatigue, difficulty breathing, or itching, seek medical attention.
Treatment Options
Treatment for skin redness will often depend on the underlying cause of the symptom. During your appointment, discuss your medical history with your doctor to create a treatment plan that’s right for you.
In many cases, anti-inflammatory medication will be recommended to treat the symptoms of skin redness. The medications are commonly administered as a topical ointment. In some cases, an oral tablet or injection may be ordered to completely treat the inflammation.
If your doctor suspects your erythema is being caused by an allergic reaction, you may be recommended or prescribed an antihistamine to reduce symptoms.
Depending on the cause of your erythema, talk to your doctor about methods to reduce redness and relieve any itching/ discomfort you may be experiencing.
Not all cases of skin redness will respond to self-care strategies, especially if it is being caused by medication or an underlying condition, so be sure to ask your health care provider about the best methods to treat your condition.