How does a person get pityriasis rosea?

The cause of pityriasis rosea is not known, but it is commonly believed to be caused by a virus or bacteria. Some patients may have a cold before the rash. It is usually seen in children, adolescents, and young adults. Most people with the rash are 10 to 35 years of age.

Can pityriasis rosea be caused by stress?

In some cases, people with pityriasis rosea report that they had significant or long-term stress before developing a rash. However, there isn't enough research to determine that stress may cause pityriasis rosea. Pityriasis rosea doesn't usually affect people over the age of 60.

How is pityriasis rosea spread?

It's not known what causes pityriasis rosea. One theory is that the rash may be caused by a viral infection. Pityriasis rosea is not contagious and cannot be spread to other people through physical contact.

How do you cure pityriasis rosea fast?

Lifestyle and home remedies

Take nonprescription allergy medicine (antihistamines), such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl, others). Bathe or shower in lukewarm water. Sprinkle bath water with an oatmeal-based bath product (Aveeno). Apply a moisturizer, calamine lotion or a nonprescription corticosteroid cream.

Is pityriasis rosea caused by an STD?

It also is not due to any known type of allergic reaction. This condition is not a sign of any type of internal disease. Since it is neither contagious nor sexually transmitted, there is no reason to avoid close or intimate contact when one has this eruption.

Should I be worried about pityriasis rosea?

Pityriasis rosea causes a rash that will clear on its own, so it's usually nothing to worry about. Still, it's important to get diagnosed. It's possible that the rash could be something other than pityriasis rosea. Also, if you're pregnant, you may need close follow up.

Who is at greater risk for pityriasis rosea?

Are you at risk for getting pityriasis rosea? Most people who have pityriasis rosea are young and healthy. The disease usually develops between 10 and 35 years of age. It's also more common during pregnancy.

How serious is pityriasis rosea?

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.

Is pityriasis rosea fungal or viral?

Pityriasis rosea is caused by a viral infection. The virus has recently been identified as one of the herpes viruses. Children and young adults are more susceptible, for reasons unknown.

What worsens pityriasis rosea?

Hot water and strong soaps can worsen the rash and the itch. If your rash doesn't itch, taking a hot shower or using a strong soap can trigger an itch.

Is sun good for pityriasis rosea?

The best treatment for severe pityriasis rosea is ultraviolet light exposure. This is the type of light which is found in sunlight. During the summer time one of the best treatments is to go to the beach. At other times ultraviolet light (sunlight in a box) is prescribed one time per day for five days.

What makes pityriasis rosea worse?

Hot water and strong soaps can worsen the rash and the itch. If your rash doesn't itch, taking a hot shower or using a strong soap can trigger an itch.

How do you prevent pityriasis rosea?

Can pityriasis rosea be prevented or avoided? You cannot prevent or avoid this condition.

Who is at risk for pityriasis rosea?

The cause of pityriasis rosea is not known, but it is commonly believed to be caused by a virus or bacteria. Some patients may have a cold before the rash. It is usually seen in children, adolescents, and young adults. Most people with the rash are 10 to 35 years of age.