Itchy Skin: Causes and Remedies for Red Bumps

Itching skin?

Hello Dr.
Zheng,
Recently, I have developed some red, itchy bumps on my skin.
Whenever I scratch them, they become swollen and start to spread.
I am not sure why this is happening.
It’s particularly difficult at night when I am asleep, as I cannot control the urge to scratch.
Initially, there were just a few small red bumps on my waist, but now they have spread to both arms, my chest, back, and legs.

What’s even stranger is that these bumps can grow larger; what started as a few bumps has now merged into one large bump.
I am quite puzzled about how this is happening, especially since I did not eat anything unusual that night—just a few candies.
It shouldn’t be a food allergy, but I have experienced similar situations before.
On that occasion, I also had candies (but a different brand).
I suspected it might be related to food, but when I tried eating again later, I did not have any issues.
I have eaten the same candies before without any problems, so I am wondering why it is different now.
Does this count as a food allergy? I am studying abroad, so it is not convenient for me to seek medical attention suddenly.
I am unsure how to respond to this situation, and I have been applying Mentholatum that I have on hand.
Is that helpful? What should I do if I encounter a similar situation again? Thank you.
Have a nice day.

mou, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/03/03

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology

Hello! Based on your description, your condition may be urticaria (hives).
There are many potential triggers for urticaria, including food, medications, emotional stress, vibration, and temperature changes.
You will need to take medication to manage the condition for a period of time.
Additionally, it is advisable to limit your intake of foods containing dyes, preservatives, and other food additives, as this may help improve your urticaria.
Please visit a dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment.
Best wishes for your health from Dr.
Cheng Li-Chen, Dermatology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2003/03/03

More Info

Hello Mou,
It sounds like you are experiencing a frustrating and uncomfortable skin condition. The red, itchy bumps you describe could be indicative of several potential issues, including allergic reactions, hives (urticaria), or even contact dermatitis. Let’s break down some possible causes and remedies.

Possible Causes
1. Allergic Reactions: Allergies can manifest in various ways, and skin reactions are common. Even if you have eaten the same candy before without issues, it is possible to develop an allergy over time. Ingredients in the candy, such as artificial colors or preservatives, could be the culprits.

2. Hives (Urticaria): This condition is characterized by raised, itchy welts on the skin. Hives can be triggered by various factors, including stress, temperature changes, medications, or certain foods. They can appear suddenly and may spread or change in size, which aligns with your description of the bumps merging into larger areas.

3. Contact Dermatitis: If your skin has come into contact with an irritant or allergen (like certain soaps, lotions, or even fabrics), it can cause localized redness and itching. This could explain why the rash has spread if you inadvertently touched other areas of your body.

4. Insect Bites: Sometimes, insect bites can cause localized swelling and redness that may resemble hives. If you have been outdoors or in a new environment, this could be a possibility.

Remedies and Management
1. Avoid Scratching: As difficult as it may be, try to avoid scratching the affected areas. Scratching can exacerbate the irritation and lead to further inflammation or even infection.

2. Topical Treatments: Applying over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can help reduce inflammation and itching. Calamine lotion or anti-itch creams containing ingredients like menthol or pramoxine may also provide relief.

3. Antihistamines: Oral antihistamines (like Benadryl or Claritin) can help alleviate itching and reduce the allergic response. If you suspect an allergic reaction, taking an antihistamine may provide relief.

4. Cold Compresses: Applying a cold compress to the affected areas can help soothe itching and reduce swelling.
5. Moisturizers: Keeping your skin moisturized can help prevent further irritation. Look for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products.

6. Identify Triggers: If you suspect food allergies, try to keep a food diary to track what you eat and any subsequent skin reactions. This can help identify potential allergens.

When to Seek Medical Attention
If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you experience additional symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or severe discomfort, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. These could be signs of a more serious allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis.

Conclusion
In summary, while it can be challenging to pinpoint the exact cause of your skin condition without a thorough examination, the symptoms you describe suggest a possible allergic reaction or hives. Over-the-counter treatments and avoidance of known irritants can help manage your symptoms. If the situation does not improve, consider consulting a healthcare professional when possible, as they can provide a more accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

Take care, and I hope you find relief soon!

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