Summary
River rash, also known as swimmer's itch or cercarial dermatitis, is a skin rash resulting from an allergic reaction to microscopic parasites found in water bodies like lakes and rivers. Symptoms may include tingling, burning, itchy skin, and small reddish pimples or blisters, which can appear within minutes to 12 hours after exposure. Most cases do not require treatment, but over-the-counter remedies such as corticosteroid creams and cool compresses can alleviate discomfort. Scratching the rash should be avoided to prevent secondary infections. If symptoms worsen, consulting a dermatologist is recommended.
Warmer days are here. For many that means it’s a perfect time to go swimming or boating in a nearby lake or river. Before you dive in, it is important to under what river rash is.
What is river rash?
River rash also goes by another common name – swimmer’s itch. The official term for river rash and swimmer’s itch is cercarial dermatitis. It appears as a skin rash caused by an allergic reaction to microscopic parasites found in lakes, ponds, rivers, and oceans. While the parasite's preferred host is a bird or mammal, if it comes in contact with a swimmer, it burrows itself into the skin causing a rash.
What are the signs of river rash?
Symptoms may include tingling, burning, or itchy skin, small reddish pimples, or blisters. These symptoms can develop anywhere from minutes to 12 hours after contact. It is important to understand that scratching the infected areas should be avoided as it can lead to secondary infections.
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Find a location near youHow do you treat river rash?
Most cases of river rash do not require treatment. If the rash is causing discomfort, you may try the following:
- Use an over-the-counter corticosteroid cream
- Apply a cool compress to the area
- Bathe in Epsom salts or colloidal oatmeal baths
- Use an anti-itch cream
If the rash worsens over time, please see your dermatologist to rule out any secondary infections.
Do you have a skin, hair, or nail concern?
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About Forefront Dermatology
At Forefront Dermatology, we believe that healthy, beautiful skin is a reflection of overall well-being. That's why we're committed to providing the highest quality skin and body care, backed by cutting-edge technology and a team of world-class experts. In other words, we're always at the forefront of skin and body healthcare.
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