Pityriasis Rosea Information - Symptoms and Treatment

Pityriasis rosea is a general skin disorder. It is a rash of unknown cause which lasts about six weeks. It appears as a rash that can last from several weeks to several months. The way the rash looks may differ from person to person. It most often develops in the spring and the fall, and seems to favor adolescents and young adults. Pityriasis rosea is uncommon in those over 60 years old. It may last months longer when it occurs in this age group. Usually there are no permanent marks as a result of this disease, although some darker-skinned persons may develop long-lasting flat brown spots.

What are the causes of Pityriasis Rosea ?

The causes of Pityriasis Rosea are not proven as this disease does not show a sign of any internal disease, nor is it caused by a fungus, a bacteria, or an allergy. There is recent evidence suggesting that it may be caused by a virus. It is neither contagious nor sexually transmitted, there is no reason to avoid close or intimate contact when one has this eruption.

Symptoms of Pityriasis Rosea

1) Large, scaly, pink patch on the chest or back, which is called a "herold" or "mother" patch.

2) pink patches appear on the chest, back, arms, and legs.

3) The patches are oval and may form a pattern over the back

4) Itching

5) Rashes,fatigue and aching

Treatment of Pityriasis Rosea

Treatment of Pityriasis Rosea includes:

Treatment may include external and internal medications for itching.

1) Aveeno oatmeal baths, anti-itch medicated lotions and steroid creams may be prescribed to combat the rash.Apply moisturizing creams to dry skin.

2) Lukewarm, rather than hot, baths may be suggested.]

3) Ultraviolet light treatments

4) For severe cases a few days of oral anti-inflammatory medications such as prednisone may be necessary to promote healing

5) Early treatment with aciclovir may speed up recovery of at least some cases of pityriasis rosea.

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