Overview

Pityriasis rosea (pih-tuh-RY-uh-sis ROH-zee-uh) is a common skin condition that causes patches of your skin to develop raised, scaly rashes. It may appear on any part of your body, but it usually appears on the trunk (torso), arms and legs. “Pityriasis” means “scaly,” and “rosea” means “pink,” but the rashes may look red, gray, brown or purple.

Pityriasis rosea is also known as Christmas tree rash.

Who does pityriasis rosea affect?

Anyone can get pityriasis rosea. You may be more likely to develop it if you’re:

  • Between the ages of 10 and 35.
  • A woman. Women are 50% more likely to develop pityriasis rosea.

In some cases, people with pityriasis rosea report that they had significant or long-term stress before developing a rash. However, there isn’t enough research to determine that stress may cause pityriasis rosea.

Pityriasis rosea doesn’t usually affect people over the age of 60. However, if it does, the symptoms may last for a longer period.

How does pityriasis rosea affect my body?

Pityriasis rosea commonly affects the skin on your trunk, arms or legs. A variant called inverse pityriasis rosea can affect the skin on your neck, face, armpits (axillae) and groin, though it isn’t common.

Your skin may develop discolored patches (lesions) that look like scales or dry, crinkly paper. The patches may itch.

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Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.
The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:
  • High blood pressure.
  • Diabetes.
  • Heart failure.
  • Some types of heart valve disease.
Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:
  • Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
  • Don't smoke or use tobacco.
  • Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
  • Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
  • Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Reduce and manage stress.


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