What causes skin rashes on the upper body?
Patient: My husband, son, and I are all getting over an ailment that involved a fever, a cough, aches, and nasal congestion.  My husband and son have recovered nicely with no treatment but after my fever broke I realized I had a sunburn type rash all over my arms, shoulders and around my ears.  It seems to be going away.  Is this common with a usual viral 'bug'? Doctor: Thank you for your question.The symptoms that you describe are very common after viral infections. It is well known that many viruses cause rash in addition to other symptoms, such as the ones you have cough, aches, fever and nasal congestion.Theses viral rashes usually are not serious. Try do drink plenty of water and have some rest.If you notice some other symptoms please feel free to contact me again.Wish you good health!Dr. Migena GEGA