4062 Flying C Rd. Cameron Park, CA 95682 • P: 530-332-2130
Mon - Fri: 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. • Sat & Holidays: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Skin Infections and Rash
Skin infections and rashes are common and can happen to anyone. While some skin conditions are mild and go away on their own, others may need medical treatment to prevent them from getting worse. If you have a painful, itchy, swollen, or spreading rash, or notice signs of a skin infection, the providers at Jovive Urgent Care in Cameron Park can evaluate your symptoms, diagnose the cause, and recommend the right treatment so you can start feeling better.
Suffering from a skin infection or rash?
Skin Infections
A skin infection happens when bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other germs enter the skin through a cut, scrape, insect bite, or other opening. Skin infections can range from mild to severe, and early treatment can help prevent the infection from spreading.
Symptoms may include:
Redness or warmth around the affected area
Swelling
Pain or tenderness
Pus or drainage
Blisters or sores
Fever (with more serious infections)
Skin that feels hot to the touch
Common Causes of Skin Infections:
Bacterial infections
Viral infections such as shingles or chickenpox
Fungal infections
Cuts, scrapes, or puncture wounds
Insect bites or stings
Ingrown hairs
Weakened immune system
Rashes
A rash is any change in the color, texture, or appearance of your skin. Rashes may be itchy, painful, dry, blistered, or swollen. Some rashes are caused by allergies or irritants, while others are the result of infections, chronic skin conditions, or viral illnesses.
Common Symptons of a Rash:
Red or discolored patches of skin
Itching
Dry, flaky, or scaly skin
Raised bumps or welts
Blisters
Swelling
Burning or stinging
Common Causes of Rashes:
Allergic reactions
Contact dermatitis from plants, soaps, or chemicals
Poison ivy or poison oak
Eczema
Hives
Dry skin
Heat rash
Chickenpox or Shingles
Insect bites
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I visit urgent care for a skin infection?
You should seek medical care if your skin becomes increasingly red, swollen, warm, painful, or starts draining pus. You should also be evaluated if you develop a fever or the infection is spreading quickly.
Can urgent care treat rashes?
Yes. Our providers can diagnose many common rashes and recommend treatment, including prescription medications when appropriate.
Can urgent care treat poison ivy or poison oak?
Yes. We commonly treat poison ivy and poison oak. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, treatment may include prescription medications to reduce itching and inflammation.
Can I go to urgent care for shingles?
Yes. Early treatment for shingles is important because antiviral medication works best when started within the first few days after the rash appears.
Is a skin infection contagious?
Some skin infections are contagious, while others are not. Viral infections like chickenpox and shingles can spread under certain circumstances, while bacterial infections may spread through direct contact. Our providers can explain whether you should avoid close contact with others.
When should I worry about a rash?
You should seek medical attention if your rash is spreading rapidly, causes severe pain, is accompanied by a fever, forms large blisters, affects your eyes or mouth, or makes it difficult to breathe.
Do I need antibiotics for a skin infection?
Not always. Some skin infections are caused by bacteria and require antibiotics, while others are caused by viruses, fungi, allergies, or irritation and require different treatments. A healthcare provider can determine the right treatment.
What should I do before coming to urgent care?
Keep the affected area clean, avoid scratching, and do not apply new creams or medications unless directed by a healthcare provider. If possible, make note of when your symptoms started and any new products, plants, or medications you may have been exposed to.
Convenience Seven Days a Week
When unexpected illnesses and minor injuries happen, we are here to help with convenient walk-in care, same-day appointments, and virtual visits. Many of our clinics also offer on-site X-ray services, allowing us to quickly diagnose and treat a wide range of non-life-threatening conditions.
At Jovive Health, we are committed to providing accessible, compassionate, and affordable care for patients of all ages. Whether you are dealing with a sprain, a fever, a cut, or another everyday health concern, our experienced medical team is here to help you feel better and get back to your daily routine as quickly as possible.
