Dealing with Persistent Skin Issues: What to Do About Red Spots and White Patches

What should I do?

Hello, for the past two years, I have developed small red spots on my limbs.
Most doctors have diagnosed it as Pityriasis Rosea, but the red spots have not disappeared after two years.
The red spots on my arms have turned into white patches, and my legs are covered with red spots, which are quite unsightly.
The doctors said it would resolve on its own, but it hasn't improved.
What should I do? Thank you.

jean, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/06/23

Dr. Huang Ruiyun reply Dermatology

Your issue cannot be diagnosed online; it requires an in-person examination by a dermatologist.
If you have already seen many dermatologists without resolving the problem, you may consider visiting a medical center such as National Taiwan University Hospital or Cheng Kung University Hospital to see if a biopsy is necessary.

Reply Date: 2003/06/23

More Info

Dealing with persistent skin issues, especially those that have lasted for two years, can be quite frustrating and concerning. Based on your description, it seems that you have been diagnosed with pityriasis rosea, a common skin condition that typically presents as a rash characterized by red spots. While pityriasis rosea usually resolves on its own within a few weeks to months, the fact that your symptoms have persisted for two years is unusual and warrants further investigation.

First and foremost, it is essential to consult a dermatologist who can provide a thorough evaluation of your skin condition. A dermatologist will be able to confirm whether the diagnosis of pityriasis rosea is accurate or if there may be another underlying skin issue at play. Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or even fungal infections can sometimes mimic the appearance of pityriasis rosea and may require different treatment approaches.

In the meantime, here are some general recommendations that may help manage your symptoms:
1. Moisturizing: Keeping your skin well-hydrated is crucial. Use a fragrance-free moisturizer regularly, especially after bathing, to help soothe the skin and reduce irritation. Look for products containing ceramides or hyaluronic acid, which can help restore the skin barrier.

2. Avoid Irritants: Identify and avoid any potential irritants that may exacerbate your skin condition. This includes harsh soaps, detergents, or skincare products with fragrances and alcohol. Opt for gentle, hypoallergenic products instead.

3. Sun Protection: If you have developed white patches on your skin, it is essential to protect those areas from sun exposure. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and consider wearing protective clothing when outdoors.

4. Topical Treatments: Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your dermatologist may recommend topical treatments such as corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and itching. However, these should only be used under medical supervision.

5. Lifestyle Modifications: Stress can exacerbate skin conditions, so consider incorporating stress-reducing practices into your routine, such as yoga, meditation, or regular exercise. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support overall skin health.

6. Follow-Up Care: Since your condition has persisted for an extended period, regular follow-ups with your dermatologist are essential. They may consider additional diagnostic tests, such as a skin biopsy, to rule out other conditions or to better understand the nature of your skin issues.

7. Consider Other Opinions: If you feel that your current treatment plan is not effective, seeking a second opinion from another dermatologist may provide new insights or alternative treatment options.

In conclusion, while pityriasis rosea is typically self-limiting, the persistence of your symptoms suggests that further evaluation is necessary. A dermatologist can help determine the best course of action tailored to your specific situation. Remember, taking proactive steps in managing your skin health and seeking professional guidance is key to finding relief from persistent skin issues.

Similar Q&A

Effective Solutions for Managing Allergic Skin Conditions

I have sensitive skin that is oily on the inside and dry on the outside. I occasionally experience red spots on my face and have seen a doctor, but the condition keeps recurring. I'm unsure if there are any treatment options available.

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology
Based on your description, it may be seborrheic dermatitis, also known as seborrhea. I'm not sure if your dermatologist has mentioned this, as it's difficult to make a definitive diagnosis without seeing the condition firsthand. Seborrheic dermatitis can indeed be recur...

Understanding Skin Conditions: From Bumps to Acne Solutions

I have noticed many granular bumps on my arm, almost covering the entire arm. I visited a doctor, but the medication didn't seem to help much. After getting sun exposure, they appear even more pronounced. What could this condition be? Additionally, I have white spots coverin...

Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
The bump on your arm cannot be assessed without seeing it. The white spots on your chest may be tinea versicolor, which can be treated with antifungal medication, applied for at least one month. The white patches may take longer to resolve. You can use a gentle cleansing product ...

Managing Persistent Skin Conditions: Seeking Effective Treatment Solutions

Hello, my husband suddenly developed several skin conditions that have persisted for 8 to 9 months. He has hand dyshidrotic eczema (which is not itchy), folliculitis on his body, eczema, and seborrheic dermatitis on his scalp. This has been troubling us for quite some time, and d...

Dr. Zhong Yitun reply Dermatology
The patient's skin condition includes eczema, folliculitis, and seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp, which suddenly appeared about 8-9 months ago. It is necessary to determine whether this is caused by external stimuli or allergies, which requires an examination by a dermatol...

Understanding Persistent Red Spots on the Face: Causes and Treatments

Dear Dr. Jin, I initially developed a few red spots on my face, but over time, the number of spots has increased and they have grown larger. On average, I notice new red spots appearing each week, and this situation has persisted for over a month. I have sought medical attention...

Dr. Jin Lianchun reply Dermatology
Hello, Miss: There are several possible causes for facial erythema: 1. Rosacea 2. Allergic dermatitis 3. Seborrheic dermatitis 4. Fungal infection 5. Lupus erythematosus 6. Dermatomyositis 7. Others. Therefore, I recommend that you visit a dermatologist or a medical center for an...