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Warning-sign checks

Pityriasis rosea: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services for trouble breathing, faintness, or swelling of the lips, tongue, face, or throat.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek urgent medical help if the rash is accompanied by high fever, significant weakness, rapidly spreading blisters, painful skin, skin peeling, or sores in the mouth or eyes.

    These are not typical features of pityriasis rosea and may indicate a more serious skin reaction or infection.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine appointment if:

    • You are unsure what the rash is
    • The rash affects your palms, soles, mouth, eyes, or genitals
    • Itching is interfering with sleep or daily life
    • The rash began after starting a medicine
    • It has not started improving after several weeks
    • You have signs of infection, such as warmth, pus, or increasing pain
    • You are pregnant and develop a new widespread rash

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Pityriasis rosea. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.