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Warning-sign checks

Rashes: 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 if a rash occurs with:

    • Trouble breathing, throat tightness, faintness, or swelling of the tongue
    • Rapidly developing blisters, widespread peeling, or raw skin
    • Painful sores affecting the eyes, mouth, or genitals
    • A purple or red rash that does not fade under pressure, with fever or severe illness

    These features may indicate a serious allergic reaction, severe medication reaction, or significant infection.

    Do not stop an essential prescribed medicine unless a clinician advises it, except when emergency help is needed for a severe reaction.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    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 you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek same-day medical care if the rash is rapidly spreading, very painful, or accompanied by fever.

    You should also get prompt advice if the skin around it is becoming hot and swollen, pus is present, or red streaks extend from the area.

    A rash near the eye, a widespread rash during pregnancy, or a rash in someone with a weakened immune system also deserves prompt assessment.

    Arrange a review sooner if a new medicine may be responsible.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has a fever with a stiff neck, a rash that does not fade under pressure, or severe headache
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Book a routine appointment if the rash lasts more than a few weeks, keeps returning, disrupts sleep, or does not improve with basic care.

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