A common cold is a viral infection primarily affecting the nose and throat, known as the upper respiratory tract. While typically characterized by symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing, and sore throat, people often wonder if a rash can also occur alongside these familiar signs. While a rash is not a typical symptom of the common cold itself, its appearance alongside cold-like symptoms often points to other underlying causes or related viral infections.
Viruses That Cause Cold-Like Symptoms and Rashes
Certain viruses can initially present with symptoms resembling a common cold before a characteristic rash develops. For instance, Parvovirus B19 causes Fifth Disease, often starting with mild fever and a runny nose, followed by a distinctive “slapped cheek” rash on the face and a lacy rash on the body. This rash typically appears four to fourteen days after infection.
Enteroviruses, a group of common viruses, can also lead to cold-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and body aches, sometimes accompanied by a mild to moderate skin rash. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease, a specific enteroviral infection, causes fever and a sore throat before painful blisters appear in the mouth and a rash on the hands and feet. Adenoviruses are another group of viruses that commonly cause respiratory infections, including cold-like symptoms, and can occasionally result in a skin rash that may look like blotches, spots, or bumps.
Measles, a highly contagious viral infection, begins with a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A few days later, a characteristic blotchy red rash appears, typically starting on the face and spreading downwards. Rubella, also known as German measles, presents with mild cold symptoms and a fine, pink rash that starts on the face and spreads to the body.
Other Causes of Rashes During a Cold
A rash appearing during a cold may not always be due to a specific rash-causing virus. The body’s immune response to any viral infection, including those causing the common cold, can sometimes trigger a non-specific skin eruption known as a viral exanthem. This type of rash is a generalized reaction, typically appearing as red spots or blotches that can be flat or slightly raised, often found on the trunk and back. It usually resolves as the viral infection clears.
Another possibility for a rash coinciding with cold symptoms involves allergic reactions to medications taken for symptom relief. Over-the-counter cold remedies, such as certain pain relievers or decongestants, can sometimes cause drug-induced rashes, which might manifest as hives, widespread redness, or itching.
Existing skin conditions can sometimes worsen during a viral illness like a cold. Conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, which cause dry, itchy, or inflamed skin, may experience flare-ups due to the body’s overall stress response or changes in skin barrier function during an infection.
When to Seek Medical Care
While many rashes that appear with cold-like symptoms are benign, certain signs warrant prompt medical attention. A rash that spreads rapidly, is painful, or involves blistering or peeling skin should be evaluated by a healthcare professional without delay. Additionally, if the rash is accompanied by a high fever that does not respond to medication, a severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, or sensitivity to light, it could indicate a more serious condition.
Difficulty breathing or swallowing, signs of dehydration, or the sudden appearance of purple, bruise-like spots that do not fade when pressed (non-blanching rash) are also concerning symptoms. Non-blanching rashes can signify underlying issues such as bleeding under the skin or, in some instances, serious infections like meningitis.
If a rash develops shortly after starting a new medication, it could be a drug reaction requiring medical assessment. Medical consultation is also advisable for infants, young children, or individuals with compromised immune systems, or if there is significant concern about the rash.