Rash

Introduction: Why Rashes Need a New Approach

Rashes are a common skin issue, but they can be more than just a cosmetic concern. Whether caused by allergies, infections, or chronic conditions, rashes can significantly affect your quality of life. At Patients Medical in New York City, we use an integrative approach to treat rashes. We go beyond symptom management to uncover the underlying causes—whether they are related to food sensitivities, hormonal imbalances, gut health, or stress. Our holistic approach helps address rashes at their root, offering you lasting relief and healthier skin.

What Is a Rash?

A rash is any change to the skin that causes irritation or inflammation, often characterized by redness, bumps, blisters, dryness, or scaling. Rashes can range from mild to severe and may occur anywhere on the body. They are a symptom of an underlying condition, rather than a condition in themselves.

Common Types of Rashes:

  • Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): An itchy, red, and dry rash often caused by allergies or sensitivities.
  • Psoriasis: A chronic autoimmune condition that leads to scaly, thickened patches of skin.
  • Contact Dermatitis: An allergic reaction to substances like poison ivy, chemicals, or certain fabrics.
  • Hives (Urticaria): Raised, itchy welts on the skin caused by allergic reactions or other triggers.
  • Rosacea: A chronic skin condition causing redness and visible blood vessels, especially on the face.
  • Shingles: A painful, blistering rash caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus.
  • Heat Rash: Small, itchy bumps caused by sweating in hot, humid environments.

Common Symptoms of a Rash

Rashes can be accompanied by various symptoms, including:

Root Causes: Why Do You Have a Rash?

Functional medicine seeks to uncover the root causes of your rash. While rashes can often be treated with topical creams, our approach delves deeper into what may be causing them in the first place.

Common Root Causes of Rashes:

  • Food Sensitivities & Allergies: Certain foods like dairy, gluten, or processed foods can trigger immune reactions that lead to rashes.
  • Gut Imbalances: Conditions like leaky gut, candida overgrowth, or dysbiosis can contribute to skin issues, as the skin is directly connected to the gut’s health.
  • Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal changes due to thyroid dysfunction, stress, or pregnancy can lead to skin flare-ups.
  • Toxins & Environmental Triggers: Exposure to environmental pollutants, chemicals, or certain fabrics can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
  • Chronic Stress & Inflammation: Stress elevates cortisol levels, which can exacerbate skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne.
  • Autoimmune Conditions: Disorders like lupus or psoriasis can manifest as chronic rashes, affecting the skin and other organs.
  • Infections: Bacterial, fungal, or viral infections can cause rashes to develop as part of the body’s immune response.

Diagnostic Testing We Use

At Patients Medical, we use advanced testing to identify the root causes of your rash and other skin issues. Some of the tests we offer include:

  • Allergy testing (to identify food or environmental triggers)
  •  Comprehensive stool tests for gut imbalances and infections
  •  Blood panels for hormonal imbalances (thyroid, estrogen, cortisol)
  • Inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR)
  •  Skin biopsy (if necessary) to rule out infections or autoimmune conditions
  •  Heavy metal testing (to assess toxin exposure)

Integrative Treatments for Presyncope

Nutritional Therapy

  • Elimination diets to identify food triggers
  • Gut-healing foods such as bone broth, fermented foods, and prebiotics
  • Anti-inflammatory foods like omega-3-rich fish, leafy greens, and turmeric

Topical Treatments

  • Anti-inflammatory creams with ingredients like aloe vera or calendula
  • Moisturizers to help prevent skin dryness and itching
  • Gentle, natural cleansers for sensitive skin

Herbal & Nutraceutical Support

  • Turmeric (anti-inflammatory)
  • Omega-3 fatty acids (for skin health)
  • Probiotics (for gut balance and skin health)
  • Vitamin D (supports immune function)
  • Zinc (promotes skin regeneration)

Stress Reduction

  • Acupuncture (to balance the body’s energy)
  • Meditation and mindfulness practices
  • Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha and Rhodiola to help regulate cortisol levels

Physical Medicine & Movement Therapy

  • IV nutrient therapy (to boost detoxification and reduce inflammation)
  • Liver detox protocols
  • Heavy metal detoxing

Hormonal Balancing

We use bioidentical hormone therapy and thyroid optimization to address any imbalances that may be contributing to your skin flare-ups.

Real Case Study: Emily’s Journey to Skin Health

Emily, 28, came to us with chronic eczema that had worsened after she moved to a new city. She had tried several topical creams with limited results. Through detailed testing, we found food sensitivities, a gut imbalance, and high cortisol levels due to stress.

We created a customized 3-month treatment plan that included:

  • An elimination diet to identify food triggers
  • Probiotics and anti-inflammatory supplements
  • Stress reduction techniques like meditation and acupuncture
  • Nutrient IVs for detoxification
  • A personalized anti-inflammatory meal plan

After three months, Emily’s eczema cleared up significantly, and she felt more in control of her health.

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, through a combination of dietary adjustments, supplements, stress reduction, and gut health optimization, many rashes can be effectively treated naturally.

Results vary depending on the cause and severity of your rash, but many patients begin to see improvement within 4-6 weeks of starting treatment.

Yes, chronic stress can increase inflammation and exacerbate conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne. Reducing stress is a key part of our treatment approach.

Food sensitivities or allergies can trigger rashes. We offer elimination diets and testing to help identify if food is contributing to your skin issues.

Our integrative approach works alongside your current treatments. If necessary, we’ll discuss how to adjust your regimen to maximize your results.

Yes! By addressing root causes such as food sensitivities, gut health, and stress, you can reduce the risk of future flare-ups.

We are an out-of-network provider but offer superbills for potential reimbursement. Lab tests and certain treatments may be partially covered.

Acupuncture can help alleviate inflammation and balance energy, which can be particularly effective in managing chronic rashes caused by stress or autoimmune conditions.

Probiotics help balance the gut microbiome, which is crucial for skin health. A healthy gut can lead to healthier skin, especially if your rash is linked to gut imbalances.

Many patients experience significant improvement or complete resolution of their rashes with an integrative treatment plan that addresses underlying causes. However, some conditions may require ongoing management.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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