[19F] Experiencing intermittent, itchy rashes

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be causing your symptoms:

• Allergic Contact Dermatitis: This is a skin condition that occurs when you come into contact with an allergen that your skin is sensitive to, causing an allergic reaction. This can result in a red, itchy rash. However, you mentioned that you haven't started using any new products recently, which makes this less likely.

  • Treatment typically involves avoiding the allergen and using creams or ointments to soothe the skin.

• Urticaria (Hives): This condition can cause red, itchy welts to appear on the skin. These welts can appear anywhere on the body and can come and go. It's often caused by an allergic reaction, but can also be triggered by other factors like stress or heat.

  • Treatment typically involves antihistamines to reduce itching and inflammation.

• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): This is a chronic skin condition that can cause patches of skin to become itchy, red, and inflamed. It's often seen in people who have allergies or asthma, and can be triggered by various factors, including stress, irritants, and changes in weather.

  • Treatment typically involves moisturizing the skin regularly, avoiding triggers, and using medicated creams or ointments.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list and other conditions could also be causing your symptoms.

What you can do

While waiting for a formal diagnosis from a healthcare provider, here are some things you can do to help manage your symptoms:

1. Avoid scratching the rash as this can make it worse and potentially lead to infection.
2. Use a moisturizer on the affected areas to help soothe the skin and reduce itching.
3. Try to identify any potential triggers for the rash. This could include certain foods, stress, or changes in weather.
4. Over-the-counter antihistamines can help reduce itching and inflammation.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if:

• The rash spreads rapidly or covers a large area of your body.
• You experience other symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or lips, or a fever.
• The rash doesn't improve after a few days or gets worse.

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.