Erythrasma: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Seek urgent or emergency care for rapidly spreading redness with fever, severe pain, major swelling, blistering, purple or black skin, confusion, faintness, or difficulty breathing.

   These are not usual signs of erythrasma and may indicate a different, more serious problem.

   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Seek prompt medical advice if the area becomes increasingly painful, develops pus or open sores, spreads despite treatment, or affects a large area.

   Earlier assessment is sensible if you have diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Arrange routine medical advice if a skin-fold rash does not improve with basic care, keeps returning, or has not responded to an over-the-counter antifungal treatment.

   Assessment is also useful if you are unsure what the rash is, since several conditions have a similar appearance.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Erythrasma. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.