[20M] Experiencing upper body itching and sharp sensations triggered by heat

Patient Description

A 20-year-old male reports a 6-month history of itching and sharp sensations without pain in the upper body, triggered by warmth from sources like room heaters or body heat under clothes. The symptoms are not associated with sun exposure to the skin, and relief is obtained by pouring water on the affected areas. The patient denies the presence of rashes, hives, shortness of breath, or chest tightness during episodes. There is no recent history of new medication use, no known allergies, no family history of skin conditions, and no chronic diseases. The patient is not currently on any medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

  • Cholinergic Urticaria: This is a type of hives that is triggered by a rise in body temperature, such as when you're in a heated room or under warm clothes. It's characterized by itching and a sharp sensation without pain, but it typically also involves the appearance of small hives or bumps, which you didn't mention.

    • Treatment typically involves avoiding triggers, such as heat and stress, and taking antihistamines.
  • Heat Rash (Prickly Heat): This condition occurs when sweat ducts become blocked and sweat can't get to the surface of the skin. Instead, it gets trapped beneath the skin's surface, causing a rash and itching.

    • Treatment typically involves cooling the skin and avoiding heat and humidity.
  • Dermatographism: This is a type of urticaria where scratching or rubbing the skin causes redness, swelling, and itching. It's not clear from your description whether this might be the case.

    • Treatment typically involves avoiding triggers and taking antihistamines.

Please note that these are only possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Try to avoid triggers such as heat and stress.
  2. Keep your skin cool and dry.
  3. Over-the-counter antihistamines may help with the itching, but you should consult a healthcare professional before starting any new medication.
  4. Wear loose, light clothing that allows your skin to breathe.

What you should look out for

  • If your symptoms worsen or you develop new symptoms, such as hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
  • If your symptoms persist despite your efforts to avoid triggers and keep your skin cool, you should consult a healthcare professional.

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What is cholinergic urticaria and how is it treated?

Cholinergic urticaria is a type of hives triggered by an increase in body temperature, such as from exercise, hot showers, or warm environments. It typically causes itching and small hives or bumps. Treatment involves avoiding triggers and taking antihistamines to manage symptoms.


What are the symptoms and treatment options for heat rash?

Heat rash, also known as prickly heat, occurs when sweat ducts become blocked, trapping sweat under the skin. This can cause itching and a rash. Treatment includes cooling the skin, avoiding heat and humidity, and wearing loose clothing.


Can dermatographism cause itching without visible skin changes?

Yes, dermatographism can cause itching and redness when the skin is scratched or rubbed, even if there are no visible changes initially. It is a form of physical urticaria and can be managed by avoiding triggers and using antihistamines.


When should I seek medical attention for my symptoms?

You should seek medical attention if your symptoms worsen, if you develop new symptoms like hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing, or if your symptoms persist despite avoiding triggers and keeping your skin cool.


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