Is pityriasis rosea something to worry about?

See a GP if you have an unexplained rash. They’ll usually be able to confirm whether it’s pityriasis rosea, or another skin condition such as eczema, psoriasis or ringworm. If the GP is uncertain, they may refer you to a skin specialist (dermatologist).

Is pityriasis rosea serious?

In most cases, pityriasis rosea is harmless and doesn’t return after it goes away. If your case lasts longer than 3 months, check in with your doctor. You may have another condition or be reacting to a medication.

How do you make pityriasis rosea go away?

The following tips may help relieve the discomfort of pityriasis rosea:

1. Take over-the-counter allergy medicine (antihistamines). These include diphenhydramine (Benadryl, others).
2. Bathe or shower in lukewarm water.
3. Take an oatmeal bath.
4. Apply a moisturizer, calamine lotion or an over-the-counter corticosteroid cream.

How can I speed up the healing of pityriasis rosea?

Lifestyle and home remedies

1. Take over-the-counter allergy medicine (antihistamines). These include diphenhydramine (Benadryl, others).
2. Bathe or shower in lukewarm water.
3. Take an oatmeal bath.
4. Apply a moisturizer, calamine lotion or an over-the-counter corticosteroid cream.

Why is my pityriasis rosea not going away?

If the rash doesn’t disappear by then or if the itching is bothersome, talk with your doctor about treatments that can help. The condition clears up without scarring and usually doesn’t recur.

Does pityriasis rosea spread to the face?

Pityriasis rosea appears mostly on the torso, but it’s not uncommon for it to spread around the body. It may appear on the arms, neck and even the scalp. The rash rarely spreads to the face. It’s unknown whether pityriasis rosea is contagious and there is no cure.

How infectious is pityriasis rosea?

A large single spot (herald patch) forms.

Why is pityriasis rosea considered a viral exanthem?

Pityriasis Rosea has been considered a viral exanthem, and has been linked to upper respiratory infections. It has been linked to HHV-7 (human herpesvirus 7). Often, these lesions occur a few days after a resolved illness, but have also been shown to have a higher incidence in those who are immunocompromised.

How to tell if it’s ringworm or pityriasis rosea?

Pityriasis rosea usually forms large, pink ovals, though sometimes the patches resemble Christmas trees. Ringworm, as the name implies, forms rings with healthy-looking skin in the center. Doctors treat ringworm with anti-fungal medications, which will not have any effect on pityriasis rosea. Pityriasis rosea usually goes away on its own.

How long does pityriasis rosea usually last?

Pityriasis rosea is a mild, but common, skin condition. Characterized by scaly, pink, inflamed skin, the condition can last from 1 to 3 months and usually leaves no lasting marks. What causes pityriasis rosea? The cause of pityriasis rosea is not known, but it is commonly believed to be caused by a virus or bacteria.