Dealing with 'skin rashes', an after effect of chikungunya

New Delhi [India], Sept. 27 (ANI): Seasonal infections are making headlines these days as people continue to struggle with life threatening diseases like Dengue, Malaria and Chikungunya. Caused due to Aedes mosquitoes, the diseases are characterised by prolonged fever, joint pains, and body aches. Although, these are some common symptoms, it is the after effects and consequences that affect the health of the person dramatically. Among all, skin rashes are the most common issue and if aggravated, lead to melisma or facial hyperpigmentation due to extensive scratching over the area. According to Dr C.M Guri, dermatologist at Venus Clinic, "In every viral infection skin rashes would be there. The rash is asymptomatic in about 80 percent of the patients, and the remainder may complain of mild pruritus. The eruption most frequently appears on the first 2 days of onset of fever, but may appear simultaneously with the fever or after fever subside. Though, itching lasts only for 5-6 days. But in some cases when fever subsides people often complain of hyperpigmentation on face nose, sun allergy (burning when going out in sun) and ulcer. Therefore it is important to take precautionary steps during this phase to avoid serious skin issues." "Chikungunya is a cause of hyperpigmentation. He himself is treating 10-20 percent patients daily of similar problem. He further added that rashes caused due to Zika virus looks like flat, bumpy spots all over the body that lasts for 2-3 days. People suffering with Chikungunya exhibit rashes on the extremities like neck, ear lobe, trunk etc. while skin rashes in dengue resembles measles," Dr Guria dded. Although, various treatment and medications are available for these diseases, there is no specific solution to the problem of skin rashes. In this scenario, Dr Rohit Batra, dermatologist at Dermaworld Skin Clinic suggests some tips to soothe the skin rash and relieve you of the pain. Here's a quick guide: Avoid going out in the sun, remain indoor, and if going out apply good quantity of sunscreen, Avoid eating Citrus fruits & food, Eat anti allergic medicines to get relief from itching and skin rashes, Avenanthramides in oats can reduce the inflammation. Make a paste of oatmeal and mix it with warm water. Apply this paste for atleast 15 minutes to get an instant relief, Aloe Vera soothes the skin naturally and eliminate itching and swelling, Extra-virgin olive oil promotes skin renewal. A combination of honey &olive oil is a great skin moisturizer, Cold compresswork wonders in case the skin rash starts developing into a blister. However, avoid applying ice directly onto your skin as it may cause tissue damage. While opting these remedies is a good idea, it is important to inhibit the growth of the deadly virus right at the initial stage. Maintain hygiene around your area, don't store water openly and visit your doctor as soon as you identify the symptoms. (ANI)