Allergies or Skin Rash? Itchy Red Bumps

Is it an allergy or a rash?

Hello Doctor: Recently, I've been experiencing itching all over my body (but not to the extent of scratching excessively).
The affected areas include my arms, abdomen, and intimate areas, where I've developed red spots that resemble mosquito bites.
My parents also have these spots, and they are more numerous than mine.
My dad went to the pharmacy yesterday to buy an anti-itch medication, and the pharmacist asked if we have any pets.
We have a parrot (which we've had for 4.5 years) and have not experienced any issues related to pet feather allergies.
However, my parents visited my sister in Pingtung a few days ago, and she has a cat, but I didn't go with them, so I'm unsure if I might be allergic to cat hair (though my sister brought her cat here during the New Year, and I didn't have any issues then!).
I don't think it's likely that I'm allergic to the cat, but I'm experiencing significant itching, and the itchy areas have developed marks that look like mosquito bites.
It seems unlikely that mosquitoes would bite me this many times, unless they were very hungry.
My mom has over 30 red, swollen marks that resemble bite marks.
Could this be related to diabetes? However, my mom does not have diabetes, yet she has more marks than we do.
P.S.
My dad and I both have diabetes, but my mom does not.
Thank you for your explanation, Doctor!

Ling Er, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/05

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Without actually seeing the lesion, it is impossible to determine the issue.
If it is very concerning, please seek medical attention as soon as possible.
A proper examination is necessary to understand the problem and to be able to address it.

Reply Date: 2022/03/05

More Info

It sounds like you and your family are experiencing a concerning skin condition characterized by itchy red bumps that resemble mosquito bites. Given the information you've provided, there are several potential explanations for these symptoms, and it's important to consider various factors that could be contributing to your situation.

Firstly, the appearance of red, itchy bumps can often be attributed to allergic reactions. Allergies can manifest in various ways, including skin rashes, hives, or localized swelling. In your case, the fact that your parents also have similar symptoms raises the possibility of a shared environmental trigger. Since you mentioned that your family has a pet parrot and that your sister has a cat, it's plausible that there could be an allergic reaction to pet dander or feathers. Allergies to animal dander can develop at any time, even if you have previously cohabited with pets without issues.
Another possibility is that you may be experiencing contact dermatitis, which occurs when the skin reacts to a substance it has come into contact with. This could be due to a new detergent, soap, or even something in your environment that you may not have considered. If you or your family members have recently changed any products or come into contact with new materials, this could be a contributing factor.

Additionally, the timing of your symptoms is noteworthy. You mentioned that your father and family recently visited your sister, who has a cat. It's possible that exposure to the cat could have triggered an allergic reaction, even if you did not directly interact with the animal. Allergens can linger in the environment, and it may take time for symptoms to manifest after exposure.

As for the concern regarding diabetes, while diabetes can lead to various skin conditions, the symptoms you describe do not typically align with common diabetic skin issues. However, it is essential to manage diabetes effectively, as uncontrolled blood sugar levels can lead to skin problems, including infections and delayed wound healing.

In terms of immediate relief, over-the-counter antihistamines can help alleviate itching and reduce the allergic response. Topical corticosteroids may also be beneficial for reducing inflammation and itching. However, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan, especially since your symptoms have affected multiple family members.

If the symptoms persist or worsen, it would be wise to see a dermatologist or an allergist. They can perform tests to identify specific allergens and provide tailored treatment options. In the meantime, try to avoid scratching the affected areas, as this can lead to secondary infections. Keeping the skin moisturized and avoiding known irritants can also help manage symptoms.

In conclusion, while it is difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of your symptoms without a thorough examination, the possibilities range from allergic reactions to contact dermatitis. Given the familial nature of the symptoms, it is essential to consider environmental factors and potential allergens. Seeking professional medical advice will be the best course of action to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

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