Urgent Care for Pityriasis Rosea in San Antonio

What Is Pityriasis Rosea?

Pityriasis rosea is a skin condition marked by scaly, pink, inflamed, and itchy skin. Warm weather, exercise, and hot showers may intensify the itchiness.

What Causes Pityriasis Rosea?

There is no known cause at this time.

However, the way you can get pityriasis rosea varies from person to person.

Possible Viral Triggers

• Human herpesviruses
  • HHV-6
  • HHV-7
  • HHV-8
• Certain vaccines
  • Tuberculosis (BCG)
  • Influenza
  • Diphtheria
  • Smallpox
  • Hepatitis B
  • Pneumococcus
  • COVID-19

Genetic and Environmental Factors

• Family history
• Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) Alleles (genes)
• Exposure to heat
• Certain foods
• Certain medications
• Skin irritants and sun exposure
• Stress
• Autoimmune disorders

Other Factors

• Bacterial infection
• Immune response to a viral or bacterial infection

Is Pityriasis Rosea Contagious?

No, pityriasis rosea is not contagious. It cannot be spread from person to person through contact or other means.

Common Symptoms of Pityriasis Rosea

• Itchiness that worsens when the skin heats up
• Fatigue
• Aches and pains
• Nausea
• Congestion
• Flu-like symptoms before the rash appears (e.g., headaches, fever, sore throat, etc.)

What Does Pityriasis Rosea Rash Look Like?

The Pityriasis rosea rash usually begins as one large round or oval patch (herald patch) on the chest or back. About one to two weeks later, smaller patches appear on the chest, back, abdomen, arms, legs, neck, or face. These patches can be pink, tan, or red, depending on skin tone.

This rash is also referred to as the Christmas tree rash because it is known to form diagonal stripes down the back in some individuals. This pattern resembles evergreen tree branches.

Pityriasis Rosea Stages and Duration

Pityriasis rosea typically progresses through three stages:

• Prodromal phase
  Some individuals may experience flu-like symptoms a few days before the rash appears.
• Herald patch phase
  A large, round, or oval patch appears on the chest, back, or abdomen.
• Generalized rash stage
  Smaller, pink, tan, or red patches appear about two weeks after the herald patch. These can occur anywhere on the body, but are most common on the back, neck, arms, and legs.

Pityriasis rosea can last six to eight weeks, though some cases may last as long as five months.

How to Diagnose Pityriasis Rosea

To diagnose this rash, your healthcare provider may use a combination of the following methods:

• Physical exam
  A comprehensive visual and physical exam to evaluate the appearance, pattern, and location of the rash.
• Skin scraping
  A small sample of skin cells may be collected and examined under a microscope to rule out bacterial or fungal infections.
• Skin biopsy
  A tiny skin sample is removed and sent to a laboratory to help rule out other possible skin conditions.
• Blood tests
  These may be used to check for infections or other underlying health issues.

The Role of Visual Inspection in Diagnosis

Pityriasis rosea often has distinct visual features, including a single large “herald patch” and several smaller, oval-shaped lesions, that make visual inspection a key tool in diagnosis. In many cases, these signs are enough for a healthcare provider to make a confident diagnosis without further testing.

When to Visit Urgent Care for Pityriasis Rosea

Visit urgent care for pityriasis rosea if you have:

• New symptoms
• Rash that lasts for more than three months
• Symptoms that do not improve after one to two months
• Symptoms that worsen despite at-home or medical treatments
• You have a rash and are pregnant

Pityriasis Rosea Treatment Options

Topical Treatments and Medications

• Anti-itch creams to reduce inflammation and discomfort
• Calamine lotion to soothe irritated skin
• Antihistamine creams or lotions to relieve itchy skin

Oral Medications for Severe Cases

• Oral antihistamines (e.g., loratadine, cetirizine, and fexofenadine)
• Prescription corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone, fluocinolone, fluticasone, triamcinolone)
• Antiviral medications (in rare, prolonged cases)

Home Remedies and Lifestyle Adjustments

Home remedies

• Take a daily oatmeal bath in warm (not hot) water
• Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer to damp skin after every bath or shower
• Apply a topical 1% hydrocortisone cream on affected areas (avoiding the face and genitals)
• Take an over-the-counter antihistamine as directed on the label

Always consult a physician before beginning any at-home treatment, especially in children younger than two years old.

Lifestyle adjustments

• Avoid overheating and sweating
• Wear loose-fitting, sun-protective clothing
• Wear a daily sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
• Avoid rubbing or itching the affected areas
• Reduce stress through yoga, meditation, and mindfulness practices
• Avoid inflammatory foods (e.g., fried foods, processed meats, refined carbohydrates, and sugary drinks)
• Maintain a healthy diet of whole grains, leafy green vegetables, fresh fruits, and lean meats

How Long Does Pityriasis Rosea Last?

Typical Duration and Healing Time

This rash should resolve on its own without treatment, but it can take one to three months or longer. Once it heals, it won’t come back.

What Influences the Duration of Pityriasis Rosea?

• Age
  This rash is most common in individuals between 10 and 35 years old. If it occurs in those over 60, symptoms may last longer.
• Individual immune response
  Some individuals’ immune systems may respond faster and more effectively than others, leading to a shorter duration.
• Underlying health conditions
  Those with allergies, autoimmune conditions, or taking certain medications may experience pityriasis rosea symptoms for a longer time.
• Stress
  Stress may potentially impact the immune system, contributing to longer-lasting and more intense symptoms.
• Medications
  Some medications have been linked to pityriasis rosea-like rashes, leading to varied durations.

Managing Pityriasis Rosea Flare-Ups

To effectively manage pityriasis rosea flare-ups, it’s important to focus on symptom relief and trigger prevention.

How to Avoid Common Pityriasis Rosea Triggers

Avoid potential irritants such as:

• Hot showers and baths
• Direct sunlight
• Harsh soaps, scrubs, and scented products
• Strong detergents and fabric softeners
• Rubbing, scrubbing, or scratching the skin

Long-Term Care and Skin Health

Long-term care focuses on managing symptoms and maintaining skin comfort:

• Keep your skin cool and well-moisturized
• Use an over-the-counter antihistamine or corticosteroid at the first sign of inflammation
• Apply SPF 30 or higher daily to protect sensitive skin

Urgent Care for Pityriasis Rosea at Alamo City Urgent Care

The compassionate team at Alamo City Urgent Care specializes in rash and allergic reaction treatment, including pityriasis rosea.

Whether you’re concerned about a patch of skin or struggling with itching and discomfort, we’re here to help you find relief and get rid of pityriasis rosea.

Fast Diagnosis and Treatment for Pityriasis Rosea

If you or your child is struggling with an itchy, uncomfortable rash, don’t wait. Our providers focus on quick, accurate diagnosis and targeted pityriasis rosea treatment to alleviate symptoms.

Whether your rash is mild or more widespread, we’ll create a custom treatment plan that works for you.

What to Expect During Your Urgent Care Visit

Your visit will begin with a comprehensive skin exam to evaluate the rash’s pattern and appearance. If needed, we may take a small skin scraping or sample (biopsy) to help us rule out other conditions and optimize your treatment plan.

Why Alamo City Urgent Care Is Your Trusted Choice for Skin Conditions

Alamo City Urgent Care offers same-day treatment and on-site diagnostics for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, including pityriasis rosea.

Walk into your nearest location or save your spot in line to start feeling better today.