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Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 172 (from laksa130)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa172.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.keckmedicine.org/blog/is-your-skin-rash-a-sign-of-something-more-serious/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.keckmedicine.org/blog/is-your-skin-rash-a-sign-of-something-more-serious/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/blog\/is-your-skin-rash-a-sign-of-something-more-serious\/","crawl_time":1776249414,"first_indexed_time":1643460035,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"org,keckmedicine!www,\/blog\/is-your-skin-rash-a-sign-of-something-more-serious\/ s443","src_root_hash":"11839105181991102972","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Is Your Skin Rash a Sign of Something More Serious? - Keck Medicine of USC","meta_descriptions":["Do you have a rash? Know the difference between common conditions and when it could signal a more serious health concern."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Do you have a rash? Know the difference between common conditions and when it could signal a more serious health concern.\nRashes are caused by exposure to any number of environmental allergens such as food, weather, sunlight and even\nstress\n.\nMany of these can be treated effectively with over-the-counter medications. But in some cases, your skin may be telling you that you have a more serious condition.\n“In dermatology, we treat a wide variety of rashes, from life-threatening to simply bothersome,” says \nAshley B. Crew, MD\n, a\ndermatologist\nwith\nKeck Medicine of USC\n.\nBecause skin is the largest organ in the body, it can show signs of an internal disease before the disease shows typical symptoms.\nWhen is a rash more than a rash?\nA minor rash is easily treatable with antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream. But you should speak with your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:\nDo you have a fever or pain accompanying your rash? It could be a sign of infection and should quickly be evaluated by your doctor.\nDo you have blisters? A rash that begins to blister but that can’t be explained by exposure to poison oak or ivy could be shingles.\nDoes your rash persist without improvement from over-the-counter medications? If antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream offer no improvement, a visit with your doctor is advised.\nIs there any bruising or swelling around it? The rash may be preventing proper blood flow.\nIs there any discharge or secretion from the rash? Any colored discharge or bad odor is a sign of infection.\nDid the rash appear and spread quickly? This could be an allergic reaction to medication or food. Seek immediate medical attention if breathing becomes difficult.\nIs the rash circular in shape? This could be a sign of Lyme disease.\nDo you have\nskin discolorations\nor changes in your skin texture? A yellowing of the skin could indicate liver disease. Hardening and darkening of the skin could be signs of\ndiabetes\n.\nCommon adult rashes\nShingles\nIf you’ve ever had chicken pox or been vaccinated against chicken pox, you’re at risk of developing shingles later in life.\nShingles are reddish patches of skin with small bumps that blister and itch. Pain can be moderate or severe, lasting up to five days and taking up to four weeks to heal.\nWhen your immune system is weakened, perhaps by something as simple as a\ncold,\nthe shingles virus can infect your skin cells. Typically, you will feel tired before the rash appears and might experience a mild\nfever\n.\nHives\nHives\nappear as a rapidly spreading, red, raised and itchy rash in splotches or all over the body. Caused by an allergic reaction to medications or food, hives can be a sign of a life-threatening problem when accompanied by difficulty breathing and a drop in blood pressure.\nAllergic reaction to medications\nRashes can develop from an allergy to a medication, also known as\nDRESS syndrome\n(drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms). This condition may take weeks to appear after you start a new medication. Common symptoms that accompany the rash are fever and inflammation in the liver, heart, lungs or thyroid.\n“Some of the rashes we see are dangerous because of the rash themselves,” Crew says. “An example of this is a severe drug eruption called Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis, where people develop sudden peeling skin on mucosal surfaces. Other serious rashes treated by dermatology can be dangerous because they signify other underlying issues — examples of this include a cutaneous vasculitis or lupus rash.” \nTopics\nHeidi Tyline King is a former magazine editor who has written for numerous national publications.","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to content](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/blog\/is-your-skin-rash-a-sign-of-something-more-serious\/#content)   [![Keck Medicine of USC](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/keck-medicine-usc-logo.jpg)](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/)\n\n[Refer a Patient](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/refer-a-patient\/) [Request an Appointment](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/request-an-appointment\/) [800 USC-CARE](tel:800-872-2273) [Health Equity](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/health-equity\/) [Donate](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/giving\/) [myUSCchart](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/my-usc-chart\/)\n\n[![Keck Medicine of USC](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/keck-medicine-usc-logo.jpg) ![Keck Medicine of USC](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/2line-km-logo.jpg)](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/)\n\nsearch\n\nMenu Close\n\nsearch\n\n- [Conditions & Treatments expand\\_moreexpand\\_less](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/blog\/is-your-skin-rash-a-sign-of-something-more-serious\/ \"Conditions & Treatments\")\n  ### Conditions & Treatments\n  search\n  \n  Most Searched\n  \n  [Heart Valve Repair and Replacement](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/treatments\/valve-repair-and-replacement\/)\n  \n  [Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/treatments\/minimally-invasive-cardiac-surgery\/)\n  \n  [See all of our conditions and treatments](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/conditions-and-treatments)\n- [Find a Location expand\\_moreexpand\\_less](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/blog\/is-your-skin-rash-a-sign-of-something-more-serious\/ \"Find a Location\")\n  ### Find a Location\n  search\n  \n  [place Use my location](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/blog\/is-your-skin-rash-a-sign-of-something-more-serious\/)\n  \n  [Keck Hospital of USCeast](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/locations\/1500-san-pablo-st-los-angeles) [USC Norris Cancer Hospitaleast](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/locations\/1441-eastlake-ave-los-angeles) [USC Verdugo Hills Hospitaleast](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/locations\/1812-verdugo-blvd-glendale) [USC Arcadia Hospitaleast](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/locations\/300-w-huntington-drive-arcadia)\n  \n  ![Keck Hospital of USC \\| Keck Medical Center of USC](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/Keck-Hospital-of-USC_001-300x200.jpeg)\n  \n  [Keck Hospital of USC](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/locations\/1500-san-pablo-st-los-angeles)\n  \n  ![](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/1441-Eatlake-Ave-Los-Angeles-300x193.jpg)\n  \n  [USC Norris Cancer Hospital](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/locations\/1441-eastlake-ave-los-angeles)\n  \n  ![USC Verdugo Hills Hospital](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/usc-verdugo-hills-hospital-location-300x169.jpg)\n  \n  [USC Verdugo Hills Hospital](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/locations\/1812-verdugo-blvd-glendale)\n  \n  ![](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/300-W-Huntington-Dr-Arcadia-300x193.jpg)\n  \n  [USC Arcadia Hospital](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/locations\/300-w-huntington-drive-arcadia)\n  \n  [See all of our locations](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/locations)\n- [Find a Doctorexpand\\_moreexpand\\_less](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/blog\/is-your-skin-rash-a-sign-of-something-more-serious\/ \"Find a Doctor\")\n  ### Find a Doctor\n  Search by name or specialty\n  \n  search\n  \n  [See all of our providers](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/find-a-doctor)\n- [Patients & Visitors expand\\_moreexpand\\_less](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/blog\/is-your-skin-rash-a-sign-of-something-more-serious\/ \"Patients & Visitors\")\n  ### Resources\n  - 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Health](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/category\/everyday-health\/) \/ Is Your Skin Rash a Sign of Something More Serious?\n\nEveryday Health\n\n# Is Your Skin Rash a Sign of Something More Serious?\nOriginally published July 10, 2017\n\nLast updated June 28, 2025\n\nReading Time: 3 minutes\n\nadd\n\nremove\n\n[Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer\/sharer.php?u=https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/blog\/is-your-skin-rash-a-sign-of-something-more-serious\/&display=popup&ref=plugin&src=share_button \"Share on Facebook\")\n\n[Post](https:\/\/twitter.com\/share?url=https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/blog\/is-your-skin-rash-a-sign-of-something-more-serious\/&text=Is%20Your%20Skin%20Rash%20a%20Sign%20of%20Something%20More%20Serious%3F \"Share on Twitter or X\")\n\n[LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/blog\/is-your-skin-rash-a-sign-of-something-more-serious\/ \"Share on LinkedIn\")\n\nmail\\_outline\n\nprint\n\nSearch more 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Health](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/category\/womens-health)\n\nSee All Topics expand\\_more\n\nSee Fewer Topics expand\\_less\n\n![](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/beautiful-womans-rash-checked-by-dermatologist-for-sign-of-something-serious.jpg)\n\n## Do you have a rash? Know the difference between common conditions and when it could signal a more serious health concern.\nRashes are caused by exposure to any number of environmental allergens such as food, weather, sunlight and even [stress](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/blog\/7-symptoms-that-can-be-caused-by-stress\/).\n\nMany of these can be treated effectively with over-the-counter medications. But in some cases, your skin may be telling you that you have a more serious condition.\n\n“In dermatology, we treat a wide variety of rashes, from life-threatening to simply bothersome,” says [Ashley B. Crew, MD](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/provider\/ashley-b-crew\/), a [dermatologist](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/services\/dermatology\/) with [Keck Medicine of USC](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/).\n\nBecause skin is the largest organ in the body, it can show signs of an internal disease before the disease shows typical symptoms.\n\n### When is a rash more than a rash?\nA minor rash is easily treatable with antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream. But you should speak with your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:\n\n- Do you have a fever or pain accompanying your rash? It could be a sign of infection and should quickly be evaluated by your doctor.\n- Do you have blisters? A rash that begins to blister but that can’t be explained by exposure to poison oak or ivy could be shingles.\n- Does your rash persist without improvement from over-the-counter medications? If antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream offer no improvement, a visit with your doctor is advised.\n- Is there any bruising or swelling around it? The rash may be preventing proper blood flow.\n- Is there any discharge or secretion from the rash? Any colored discharge or bad odor is a sign of infection.\n- Did the rash appear and spread quickly? This could be an allergic reaction to medication or food. Seek immediate medical attention if breathing becomes difficult.\n- Is the rash circular in shape? This could be a sign of Lyme disease.\n- Do you have [skin discolorations](https:\/\/www.aad.org\/media\/news-releases\/skin-can-show-first-signs-of-some-internal-diseases) or changes in your skin texture? A yellowing of the skin could indicate liver disease. Hardening and darkening of the skin could be signs of [diabetes](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/blog\/5-easy-to-miss-signs-of-diabetes\/).\n### **Common adult rashes**\n**Shingles**\n\nIf you’ve ever had chicken pox or been vaccinated against chicken pox, you’re at risk of developing shingles later in life.\n\nShingles are reddish patches of skin with small bumps that blister and itch. Pain can be moderate or severe, lasting up to five days and taking up to four weeks to heal.\n\nWhen your immune system is weakened, perhaps by something as simple as a [cold,](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/blog\/common-questions-about-the-common-cold\/) the shingles virus can infect your skin cells. Typically, you will feel tired before the rash appears and might experience a mild [fever](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/blog\/what-is-a-normal-body-temperature\/).\n\n**Hives**\n\n[Hives](https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/article\/000845.htm) appear as a rapidly spreading, red, raised and itchy rash in splotches or all over the body. Caused by an allergic reaction to medications or food, hives can be a sign of a life-threatening problem when accompanied by difficulty breathing and a drop in blood pressure.\n\n**Allergic reaction to medications**\n\nRashes can develop from an allergy to a medication, also known as [DRESS syndrome](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC3718748\/) (drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms). This condition may take weeks to appear after you start a new medication. Common symptoms that accompany the rash are fever and inflammation in the liver, heart, lungs or thyroid.\n\n“Some of the rashes we see are dangerous because of the rash themselves,” Crew says. “An example of this is a severe drug eruption called Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis, where people develop sudden peeling skin on mucosal surfaces. Other serious rashes treated by dermatology can be dangerous because they signify other underlying issues — examples of this include a cutaneous vasculitis or lupus rash.”\n\n## Connect with Our Team\nOur dermatology team treat all types of skin diseases and disorders, from acne and eczema to skin cancer and psoriasis. We specialize in complex skin issues and offer the latest treatment therapies to keep your skin healthy.\n\n[Learn more](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/services\/dermatology\/)\n\nTopics\n\n[Dr. Ashley B. Crew](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/search\/?q=Dr.%20Ashley%20B.%20Crew&contentTypes=blog)\n\n[DRESS syndrome](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/search\/?q=DRESS%20syndrome&contentTypes=blog)\n\n[healthy skin](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/search\/?q=healthy%20skin&contentTypes=blog)\n\n[hives](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/search\/?q=hives&contentTypes=blog)\n\n[Keck Hospital of USC](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/search\/?q=Keck%20Hospital%20of%20USC&contentTypes=blog)\n\n[shingles](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/search\/?q=shingles&contentTypes=blog)\n\n[skin rash](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/search\/?q=skin%20rash&contentTypes=blog)\n\n[Stevens-Johnson syndrome](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/search\/?q=Stevens-Johnson%20syndrome&contentTypes=blog)\n\n[USC Norris Cancer Hospital](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/search\/?q=USC%20Norris%20Cancer%20Hospital&contentTypes=blog)\n\nHeidi Tyline King\n\nHeidi Tyline King is a former magazine editor who has written for numerous 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[Price Transparency Keck Hospital](https:\/\/hospitalpricedisclosure.com\/Default.aspx?pi=5fSixiuBb0ZpZwZgOthF7A*-*)\n  - [Price Transparency Norris Hospital](https:\/\/hospitalpricedisclosure.com\/Default.aspx?pi=ksKjyMbyRELl8UdC2a3rOg*-*)\n  - [Price Transparency Verdugo Hills Hospital](https:\/\/hospitalpricedisclosure.com\/Default.aspx?pi=h0rmgXMGiSXmDqPqnFmWhA*-*)\n  - [Price Transparency Arcadia Hospital](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/usc-arcadia-hospital\/patients-visitors\/#hospital-price-transparency)\n- [Quality Transparency](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/quality-transparency\/)\n- [Medical Records, X-Rays and MRI Results](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/quality-transparency\/records\/)\n- [Post-Acute Care](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/post-acute-care-services\/)\n- [Notice of Privacy Practices](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Notice-of-Privacy-Practices-2024.pdf)\n\n![Keck Medicine of USC](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/wp-content\/themes\/understrap-child\/images\/logos\/1-line_keck_medicine_USC_footer_logo.png)\n\nLIMITLESS\n\n© 2026 Keck Medicine of USC\n\nPolicy and Compliance\n\n- [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/privacy-policy\/)\n- [Non-discrimination](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/non-discrimination\/)\n- [Web Policy Guidelines and Governance](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/web-policy-guidelines-and-governance\/)\n- [Submit a Website Issue](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/web-services\/)\n- [Report an Incident](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/contact-us\/)","attrs_readable_markdown":"![](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/beautiful-womans-rash-checked-by-dermatologist-for-sign-of-something-serious.jpg)\n\n## Do you have a rash? Know the difference between common conditions and when it could signal a more serious health concern.\nRashes are caused by exposure to any number of environmental allergens such as food, weather, sunlight and even [stress](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/blog\/7-symptoms-that-can-be-caused-by-stress\/).\n\nMany of these can be treated effectively with over-the-counter medications. But in some cases, your skin may be telling you that you have a more serious condition.\n\n“In dermatology, we treat a wide variety of rashes, from life-threatening to simply bothersome,” says [Ashley B. Crew, MD](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/provider\/ashley-b-crew\/), a [dermatologist](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/services\/dermatology\/) with [Keck Medicine of USC](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/).\n\nBecause skin is the largest organ in the body, it can show signs of an internal disease before the disease shows typical symptoms.\n\n### When is a rash more than a rash?\nA minor rash is easily treatable with antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream. But you should speak with your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:\n\n- Do you have a fever or pain accompanying your rash? It could be a sign of infection and should quickly be evaluated by your doctor.\n- Do you have blisters? A rash that begins to blister but that can’t be explained by exposure to poison oak or ivy could be shingles.\n- Does your rash persist without improvement from over-the-counter medications? If antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream offer no improvement, a visit with your doctor is advised.\n- Is there any bruising or swelling around it? The rash may be preventing proper blood flow.\n- Is there any discharge or secretion from the rash? Any colored discharge or bad odor is a sign of infection.\n- Did the rash appear and spread quickly? This could be an allergic reaction to medication or food. Seek immediate medical attention if breathing becomes difficult.\n- Is the rash circular in shape? This could be a sign of Lyme disease.\n- Do you have [skin discolorations](https:\/\/www.aad.org\/media\/news-releases\/skin-can-show-first-signs-of-some-internal-diseases) or changes in your skin texture? A yellowing of the skin could indicate liver disease. Hardening and darkening of the skin could be signs of [diabetes](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/blog\/5-easy-to-miss-signs-of-diabetes\/).\n### **Common adult rashes**\n**Shingles**\n\nIf you’ve ever had chicken pox or been vaccinated against chicken pox, you’re at risk of developing shingles later in life.\n\nShingles are reddish patches of skin with small bumps that blister and itch. Pain can be moderate or severe, lasting up to five days and taking up to four weeks to heal.\n\nWhen your immune system is weakened, perhaps by something as simple as a [cold,](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/blog\/common-questions-about-the-common-cold\/) the shingles virus can infect your skin cells. Typically, you will feel tired before the rash appears and might experience a mild [fever](https:\/\/www.keckmedicine.org\/blog\/what-is-a-normal-body-temperature\/).\n\n**Hives**\n\n[Hives](https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/article\/000845.htm) appear as a rapidly spreading, red, raised and itchy rash in splotches or all over the body. Caused by an allergic reaction to medications or food, hives can be a sign of a life-threatening problem when accompanied by difficulty breathing and a drop in blood pressure.\n\n**Allergic reaction to medications**\n\nRashes can develop from an allergy to a medication, also known as [DRESS syndrome](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC3718748\/) (drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms). This condition may take weeks to appear after you start a new medication. Common symptoms that accompany the rash are fever and inflammation in the liver, heart, lungs or thyroid.\n\n“Some of the rashes we see are dangerous because of the rash themselves,” Crew says. “An example of this is a severe drug eruption called Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis, where people develop sudden peeling skin on mucosal surfaces. Other serious rashes treated by dermatology can be dangerous because they signify other underlying issues — examples of this include a cutaneous vasculitis or lupus rash.”\n\nTopics\n\nHeidi Tyline King is a former magazine editor who has written for numerous national publications.","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Description	Do you have a rash? Know the difference between common conditions and when it could signal a more serious health concern.
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Boilerpipe Text	Do you have a rash? Know the difference between common conditions and when it could signal a more serious health concern. Rashes are caused by exposure to any number of environmental allergens such as food, weather, sunlight and even stress . Many of these can be treated effectively with over-the-counter medications. But in some cases, your skin may be telling you that you have a more serious condition. “In dermatology, we treat a wide variety of rashes, from life-threatening to simply bothersome,” says Ashley B. Crew, MD , a dermatologist with Keck Medicine of USC . Because skin is the largest organ in the body, it can show signs of an internal disease before the disease shows typical symptoms. When is a rash more than a rash? A minor rash is easily treatable with antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream. But you should speak with your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms: Do you have a fever or pain accompanying your rash? It could be a sign of infection and should quickly be evaluated by your doctor. Do you have blisters? A rash that begins to blister but that can’t be explained by exposure to poison oak or ivy could be shingles. Does your rash persist without improvement from over-the-counter medications? If antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream offer no improvement, a visit with your doctor is advised. Is there any bruising or swelling around it? The rash may be preventing proper blood flow. Is there any discharge or secretion from the rash? Any colored discharge or bad odor is a sign of infection. Did the rash appear and spread quickly? This could be an allergic reaction to medication or food. Seek immediate medical attention if breathing becomes difficult. Is the rash circular in shape? This could be a sign of Lyme disease. Do you have skin discolorations or changes in your skin texture? A yellowing of the skin could indicate liver disease. Hardening and darkening of the skin could be signs of diabetes . Common adult rashes Shingles If you’ve ever had chicken pox or been vaccinated against chicken pox, you’re at risk of developing shingles later in life. Shingles are reddish patches of skin with small bumps that blister and itch. Pain can be moderate or severe, lasting up to five days and taking up to four weeks to heal. When your immune system is weakened, perhaps by something as simple as a cold, the shingles virus can infect your skin cells. Typically, you will feel tired before the rash appears and might experience a mild fever . Hives Hives appear as a rapidly spreading, red, raised and itchy rash in splotches or all over the body. Caused by an allergic reaction to medications or food, hives can be a sign of a life-threatening problem when accompanied by difficulty breathing and a drop in blood pressure. Allergic reaction to medications Rashes can develop from an allergy to a medication, also known as DRESS syndrome (drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms). This condition may take weeks to appear after you start a new medication. Common symptoms that accompany the rash are fever and inflammation in the liver, heart, lungs or thyroid. “Some of the rashes we see are dangerous because of the rash themselves,” Crew says. “An example of this is a severe drug eruption called Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis, where people develop sudden peeling skin on mucosal surfaces. Other serious rashes treated by dermatology can be dangerous because they signify other underlying issues — examples of this include a cutaneous vasculitis or lupus rash.” Topics Heidi Tyline King is a former magazine editor who has written for numerous national publications.
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Everyday Health # Is Your Skin Rash a Sign of Something More Serious? Originally published July 10, 2017 Last updated June 28, 2025 Reading Time: 3 minutes add remove [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://www.keckmedicine.org/blog/is-your-skin-rash-a-sign-of-something-more-serious/&display=popup&ref=plugin&src=share_button "Share on Facebook") [Post](https://twitter.com/share?url=https://www.keckmedicine.org/blog/is-your-skin-rash-a-sign-of-something-more-serious/&text=Is%20Your%20Skin%20Rash%20a%20Sign%20of%20Something%20More%20Serious%3F "Share on Twitter or X") [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://www.keckmedicine.org/blog/is-your-skin-rash-a-sign-of-something-more-serious/ "Share on LinkedIn") mail\_outline print Search more articles News & Magazine [Newsroom](https://news.keckmedicine.org/) [Health System Insights](https://www.keckmedicine.org/health-system-insights/) [Health Science Campus](https://hscnews.usc.edu/) [USC Health Magazine](https://www.keckmedicine.org/magazine/) Topics [Allergies and Asthma](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/allergies-and-asthma) [Ask the Experts](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/ask-the-experts) [Bone and Joint Health](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/bone-and-joint-health) [Brain Health](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/brain-health) [Brain Tumors](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/brain-tumors) [Breaking Myths and Misconceptions](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/breaking-myths-and-misconceptions) [Breast Cancer](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/breast-cancer) [Breast Health](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/breast-health) [Business of Health Care](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/business-of-health-care) [Cancer](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/cancer) [Colon Cancer](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/colon-cancer) [COVID-19](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/covid-19) [Diabetes](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/diabetes) [Digestive Health](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/digestive-health) [Ear, Nose and Throat](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/ear-nose-and-throat) [Everyday Health](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/everyday-health) [Eye Care](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/eye-care) [Food and Nutrition](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/food-and-nutrition) [From Our Experts](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/from-our-experts) [Gender-Affirming Care](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/gender-affirming-care) [General](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/general) [Headache](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/headache) [Hearing](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/hearing) [Heart Health](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/heart-health) [Incontinence](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/incontinence) [Keck Hospital of USC](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/keck-hospital-of-usc) [Kidney Stones](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/kidney-stones) [Lung Cancer](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/lung-cancer) [Meet Our Team](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/meet-our-team) [Men's Health](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/mens-health) [Organ Transplant and Donation](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/organ-transplant-and-donation) [Orthopedics](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/orthopedics) [Pain](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/pain) [Primary Care](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/primary-care) [Skin Cancer](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/skin-cancer) [Skin Health](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/healthy-skin) [Sleep](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/sleep) [Spine Health](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/spine-health) [Sports and Fitness](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/sports-and-fitness) [Surgery](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/surgery) [Urology](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/urology) [USC Arcadia Hospital](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/usc-arcadia-hospital) [USC Norris Cancer Hospital](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/usc-norris-cancer-hospital) [USC Verdugo Hills Hospital](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/usc-verdugo-hills-hospital) [Voice and Speech](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/voice-and-speech) [Weight Management](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/weight-management) [Women's Health](https://www.keckmedicine.org/category/womens-health) See All Topics expand\_more See Fewer Topics expand\_less ![](https://www.keckmedicine.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/beautiful-womans-rash-checked-by-dermatologist-for-sign-of-something-serious.jpg) ## Do you have a rash? Know the difference between common conditions and when it could signal a more serious health concern. Rashes are caused by exposure to any number of environmental allergens such as food, weather, sunlight and even [stress](https://www.keckmedicine.org/blog/7-symptoms-that-can-be-caused-by-stress/). Many of these can be treated effectively with over-the-counter medications. But in some cases, your skin may be telling you that you have a more serious condition. “In dermatology, we treat a wide variety of rashes, from life-threatening to simply bothersome,” says [Ashley B. Crew, MD](https://www.keckmedicine.org/provider/ashley-b-crew/), a [dermatologist](https://www.keckmedicine.org/services/dermatology/) with [Keck Medicine of USC](https://www.keckmedicine.org/). Because skin is the largest organ in the body, it can show signs of an internal disease before the disease shows typical symptoms. ### When is a rash more than a rash? A minor rash is easily treatable with antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream. But you should speak with your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms: - Do you have a fever or pain accompanying your rash? It could be a sign of infection and should quickly be evaluated by your doctor. - Do you have blisters? A rash that begins to blister but that can’t be explained by exposure to poison oak or ivy could be shingles. - Does your rash persist without improvement from over-the-counter medications? If antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream offer no improvement, a visit with your doctor is advised. - Is there any bruising or swelling around it? The rash may be preventing proper blood flow. - Is there any discharge or secretion from the rash? Any colored discharge or bad odor is a sign of infection. - Did the rash appear and spread quickly? This could be an allergic reaction to medication or food. Seek immediate medical attention if breathing becomes difficult. - Is the rash circular in shape? This could be a sign of Lyme disease. - Do you have [skin discolorations](https://www.aad.org/media/news-releases/skin-can-show-first-signs-of-some-internal-diseases) or changes in your skin texture? A yellowing of the skin could indicate liver disease. Hardening and darkening of the skin could be signs of [diabetes](https://www.keckmedicine.org/blog/5-easy-to-miss-signs-of-diabetes/). ### Common adult rashes Shingles If you’ve ever had chicken pox or been vaccinated against chicken pox, you’re at risk of developing shingles later in life. Shingles are reddish patches of skin with small bumps that blister and itch. Pain can be moderate or severe, lasting up to five days and taking up to four weeks to heal. When your immune system is weakened, perhaps by something as simple as a [cold,](https://www.keckmedicine.org/blog/common-questions-about-the-common-cold/) the shingles virus can infect your skin cells. Typically, you will feel tired before the rash appears and might experience a mild [fever](https://www.keckmedicine.org/blog/what-is-a-normal-body-temperature/). Hives [Hives](https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000845.htm) appear as a rapidly spreading, red, raised and itchy rash in splotches or all over the body. Caused by an allergic reaction to medications or food, hives can be a sign of a life-threatening problem when accompanied by difficulty breathing and a drop in blood pressure. Allergic reaction to medications Rashes can develop from an allergy to a medication, also known as [DRESS syndrome](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3718748/) (drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms). This condition may take weeks to appear after you start a new medication. Common symptoms that accompany the rash are fever and inflammation in the liver, heart, lungs or thyroid. “Some of the rashes we see are dangerous because of the rash themselves,” Crew says. “An example of this is a severe drug eruption called Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis, where people develop sudden peeling skin on mucosal surfaces. Other serious rashes treated by dermatology can be dangerous because they signify other underlying issues — examples of this include a cutaneous vasculitis or lupus rash.” ## Connect with Our Team Our dermatology team treat all types of skin diseases and disorders, from acne and eczema to skin cancer and psoriasis. We specialize in complex skin issues and offer the latest treatment therapies to keep your skin healthy. [Learn more](https://www.keckmedicine.org/services/dermatology/) Topics [Dr. Ashley B. Crew](https://www.keckmedicine.org/search/?q=Dr.%20Ashley%20B.%20Crew&contentTypes=blog) [DRESS syndrome](https://www.keckmedicine.org/search/?q=DRESS%20syndrome&contentTypes=blog) [healthy skin](https://www.keckmedicine.org/search/?q=healthy%20skin&contentTypes=blog) [hives](https://www.keckmedicine.org/search/?q=hives&contentTypes=blog) [Keck Hospital of USC](https://www.keckmedicine.org/search/?q=Keck%20Hospital%20of%20USC&contentTypes=blog) [shingles](https://www.keckmedicine.org/search/?q=shingles&contentTypes=blog) [skin rash](https://www.keckmedicine.org/search/?q=skin%20rash&contentTypes=blog) [Stevens-Johnson syndrome](https://www.keckmedicine.org/search/?q=Stevens-Johnson%20syndrome&contentTypes=blog) [USC Norris Cancer Hospital](https://www.keckmedicine.org/search/?q=USC%20Norris%20Cancer%20Hospital&contentTypes=blog) Heidi Tyline King Heidi Tyline King is a former magazine editor who has written for numerous national publications. 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Readable Markdown	![](https://www.keckmedicine.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/beautiful-womans-rash-checked-by-dermatologist-for-sign-of-something-serious.jpg) ## Do you have a rash? Know the difference between common conditions and when it could signal a more serious health concern. Rashes are caused by exposure to any number of environmental allergens such as food, weather, sunlight and even [stress](https://www.keckmedicine.org/blog/7-symptoms-that-can-be-caused-by-stress/). Many of these can be treated effectively with over-the-counter medications. But in some cases, your skin may be telling you that you have a more serious condition. “In dermatology, we treat a wide variety of rashes, from life-threatening to simply bothersome,” says [Ashley B. Crew, MD](https://www.keckmedicine.org/provider/ashley-b-crew/), a [dermatologist](https://www.keckmedicine.org/services/dermatology/) with [Keck Medicine of USC](https://www.keckmedicine.org/). Because skin is the largest organ in the body, it can show signs of an internal disease before the disease shows typical symptoms. ### When is a rash more than a rash? A minor rash is easily treatable with antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream. But you should speak with your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms: - Do you have a fever or pain accompanying your rash? It could be a sign of infection and should quickly be evaluated by your doctor. - Do you have blisters? A rash that begins to blister but that can’t be explained by exposure to poison oak or ivy could be shingles. - Does your rash persist without improvement from over-the-counter medications? If antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream offer no improvement, a visit with your doctor is advised. - Is there any bruising or swelling around it? The rash may be preventing proper blood flow. - Is there any discharge or secretion from the rash? Any colored discharge or bad odor is a sign of infection. - Did the rash appear and spread quickly? This could be an allergic reaction to medication or food. Seek immediate medical attention if breathing becomes difficult. - Is the rash circular in shape? This could be a sign of Lyme disease. - Do you have [skin discolorations](https://www.aad.org/media/news-releases/skin-can-show-first-signs-of-some-internal-diseases) or changes in your skin texture? A yellowing of the skin could indicate liver disease. Hardening and darkening of the skin could be signs of [diabetes](https://www.keckmedicine.org/blog/5-easy-to-miss-signs-of-diabetes/). ### Common adult rashes Shingles If you’ve ever had chicken pox or been vaccinated against chicken pox, you’re at risk of developing shingles later in life. Shingles are reddish patches of skin with small bumps that blister and itch. Pain can be moderate or severe, lasting up to five days and taking up to four weeks to heal. When your immune system is weakened, perhaps by something as simple as a [cold,](https://www.keckmedicine.org/blog/common-questions-about-the-common-cold/) the shingles virus can infect your skin cells. Typically, you will feel tired before the rash appears and might experience a mild [fever](https://www.keckmedicine.org/blog/what-is-a-normal-body-temperature/). Hives [Hives](https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000845.htm) appear as a rapidly spreading, red, raised and itchy rash in splotches or all over the body. Caused by an allergic reaction to medications or food, hives can be a sign of a life-threatening problem when accompanied by difficulty breathing and a drop in blood pressure. Allergic reaction to medications Rashes can develop from an allergy to a medication, also known as [DRESS syndrome](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3718748/) (drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms). This condition may take weeks to appear after you start a new medication. Common symptoms that accompany the rash are fever and inflammation in the liver, heart, lungs or thyroid. “Some of the rashes we see are dangerous because of the rash themselves,” Crew says. “An example of this is a severe drug eruption called Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis, where people develop sudden peeling skin on mucosal surfaces. Other serious rashes treated by dermatology can be dangerous because they signify other underlying issues — examples of this include a cutaneous vasculitis or lupus rash.” Topics Heidi Tyline King is a former magazine editor who has written for numerous national publications.
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