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Dr Gérald Kierzek (Medical Director of Doctissimo)
Skin rash, itching, patches or even redness… What are the dermatological signs that should alert you and prompt you to consult a dermatologist quickly? Update with Dr. Gérald Kierzek, emergency physician and medical director of Doctissimo.
Dermatological problems are among those that we tend to neglect. However, in the event of very specific symptoms, immediate medical consultation is necessary. What are these signs that should not be overlooked? Update with Dr. Gérald Kierzek, emergency physician and medical director of Doctissimo.
A sudden, widespread skin rash
“A rash that appears suddenly over a large area of the body may be a sign of a serious allergic reaction, such as widespread hives or anaphylactic shock. In such cases, immediate medical evaluation is essential.” believes Dr Gérald Kierzek.
Intense and persistent itching
“Severe, persistent itching, especially if accompanied by other symptoms such as redness, swelling, or blistering, may be a sign of an allergic reaction, serious skin infection, or other conditions. dermatological conditions requiring rapid evaluation, including a hematological or biliary problem” explains Gérald Kierzek.
Intense and persistent skin pain
“Severe, persistent pain associated with a dermatological problem, such as burning, tingling, or stabbing pain: all of which may indicate infection, inflammation, or other underlying conditions requiring evaluation and treatment immediate medical” adds the doctor.
A fever associated with a rash
A rash accompanied by fever may be a sign of a bacterial, viral or fungal infection. “In some cases, this may indicate a serious infection, such as infectious cellulitis or sepsis.” warns the medical director of Doctissimo.
Very rapid evolution or progression
“We can also draw the contours of the eruption to judge its extension or regression. explains the doctor.
Localization at facial level
Skin symptoms localized on the face, particularly in the area of the triangle of death or near the eyes, for example, require rapid consultation.
Necrotic or purplish lesions
“These lesions reflect the death of tissues” indicates the expert. “If crackling occurs under the skin, it is bacteria causing a necrotizing infection of the soft tissues” explains Dr. Gérald Kierzek.
Swelling of the face
“Particularly if it is accompanied by respiratory distress, a rash or a change in the voice of the lips, tongue or neck, this may be a sign of a serious allergic reaction called angioedema“ says the doctor.
Severe burns or frostbite
Severe burns or severe frostbite can cause significant damage to the skin and underlying tissues. “It is crucial to see a doctor or go to the emergency room as soon as possible to evaluate and treat these injuries” recommends Dr. Gérald Kierzek.
Taking medication causing a skin rash
In case of taking antibiotics in particular, with a fever and a skin rash (redness), “It is possible that it is a drug hypersensitivity syndrome. warns the emergency doctor. “It is therefore necessary to carry out a rapid medical consultation to eliminate this hypothesis. concludes the doctor.
Slide: How to distinguish different skin diseases?