Covid-19 Updates: We are following the CDC guidelines and Protocols to keep our patients safe.

Waking up to a scary-looking rash on your neck is far from ideal, especially in the summer. Depending on the weather where you live, summers can be awful for rashes. The only way to control it then is to identify the cause while it is still developing. Treatment is much more effective when the rash is in its early phase since it prevents the redness from spreading. Keep reading this blog to learn what the itchy red rash on your neck means.

What Causes Red Rash on Neck That Itches?

A rash on your neck can occur as a result of bacterial or viral infection, which is much easier to treat. However, it could also be an allergic reaction or a chronic skin condition. Here are some of the most common causes of an itchy neck rash:

Acne

Neck acne is a condition where the pores of your neck become clogged by dead skin cells, sebum, and bacteria. This can lead to a breakout where tiny pimples pop up on your neck.

Hives

Hives or urticaria is an allergic reaction where red itchy spots arise on your skin. Insect bites, food, medication, and underlying health conditions can be the reason behind it.

Fungal Infection

Numerous fungi live on your skin, but an overgrowth of fungus can lead to a skin infection, like tinea versicolor or ringworm. These conditions can get triggered during summer because of the heat.

Diabetes

Considering how diabetes is a chronic condition, it can have severe effects on your skin health. Diabetes can give way to acanthosis nigricans, which is when a big patch of skin becomes darker than the rest of your skin, especially the neck area.

Parasitic Infection

If parasites infiltrate your skin, it can cause a parasitic infection, typically known as scabies. It’s when tiny red spots and sores develop on your skin, making the entire area extremely itchy.

Meningitis

A meningitis rash is a result of bleeding under the skin. It can look like tiny pinpricks at first, but the infection evolves into bruises and splotches over time.

Eczema

Neck eczema is a dermatological condition that occurs from an overactive immune system or yeast overgrowth. It can cause your skin to turn dry, red, and super itchy, with inflamed patches growing everywhere.

Rosacea

Rosacea isn’t that common in the neck area, but it can still arise in the form of tiny red pimples on the skin.

Psoriasis

If the rash on your neck is red, scaly, and dry, it might be because of psoriasis. It’s a chronic autoimmune skin condition that takes place when your body starts producing new skin cells in the internal layer of the skin.

Viral Infection

A red rash on your neck that itches all the time can also be a side effect of a viral infection such as Covid-19, measles, chickenpox, shingles, etc.

When To See Doctor

Depending on the cause of the rash, the treatment may vary. For some cases, the treatment time is a few days or weeks, while other severe cases may require in-depth treatment for the rest of your life. If you, too, have a rash on your neck that itches, get it evaluated immediately by contacting Sharaf Diwan, MD, at (832) 604-0005 or visiting 18220 TX-249 #230, Houston, TX 77070. You can find us at the Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital.