Pityriasis rosea, also known as rosea, is a common skin disease. It looks like a rash – and is a rash. It can appear and last for several week or months. This rash differs from person to person, and at first is commonly mistaken for ringworm.

Rosea often develops in the spring and the fall months, and is most often seen on young adults and adolescents – although it is not limited to them. Although rosea does make the affected skin look horrible, it doesn’t tend to leave scars.

Sometimes rosea can cause another, more severe, skin reaction. Rosea can cause severe itching, which can be mistaken for a case of hives. Rosea is a disease, and so tiredness and aching are not uncommon. In most cases, making your body overheat by exercise or immersion in hot water (like a hot tub or shower) will cause these and other symptoms to worsen.

No one knows what causes rosea. It is not a fungal or bacterial infection. It also isn’t a sign of internal disease. It does not conform to any type of known allergic reaction and there is no way to predict when it will pop up or on who. It is not contagious or sexually transmitted. So although it can be uncomfortable for the person who is affected, it cannot be caught by their partner through contact.

A dermatologist is the best person to see if you have rosea. They can diagnose the condition in minutes with an examination. There are also blood tests and skin biopsies that can be done to diagnose the condition. There are many treatments for rosea that a dermatologist can tell you about.

            If you think you have rosea – make an appointment with your doctor immediately. It can make a difference in    your comfort level.