[22F] Experiencing widespread itching with red bumps
Patient Description
Show More
Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on the information you've provided, possible causes of your symptoms include:
-
Allergic Reaction: Given your history of allergies, it's possible that you're experiencing an allergic reaction. This could be due to a new food, medication, or environmental factor. Allergic reactions can cause itching, hives (which might look like little red bumps), and loss of appetite.
- Treatment typically involves avoiding the allergen and taking antihistamines to help control the itching.
-
Dermatitis: This is inflammation of the skin that can cause itching and redness. There are many types of dermatitis, including contact dermatitis (caused by direct skin contact with something you're allergic to) and atopic dermatitis (also known as eczema, which is often associated with allergies and asthma).
- Treatment usually involves moisturizing the skin, avoiding irritants, and using medicated creams or ointments.
-
Scabies: This is a skin infestation caused by a tiny mite. It causes intense itching and a rash that can look like small red bumps. The itching is often worse at night.
- Treatment involves medications that kill the scabies mites and their eggs.
-
Cholestasis: Although you're not currently pregnant, you mentioned that you had cholestasis of pregnancy in the past. Cholestasis can also occur outside of pregnancy, and it causes intense itching without a rash. However, you would likely also have other symptoms such as yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), dark urine, and light-colored stools.
- Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the cholestasis.
What you can do
- Try to identify any new substances you've come into contact with that could be causing an allergic reaction. This could include new foods, medications, or products like soaps or detergents.
- Over-the-counter antihistamines can help control itching due to allergies or dermatitis. However, you should check with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication.
- Keep your skin moisturized to help reduce itching and irritation.
- Avoid scratching as much as possible, as this can worsen the itching and increase your risk of infection.
What you should look out for
You should seek medical attention if:
- Your symptoms worsen or don't improve after a few days
- You develop new symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or mouth, or yellowing of the skin or eyes
- The itching is so severe that it's interfering with your sleep or daily activities
Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare provider.
Show More
Save
9 mo ago