Understanding Cold Symptoms: When to Worry About Rashes and Contagion
The virus causing the common cold leads to various symptoms? Dr. Tsai: My younger brother is in the sixth grade. Yesterday, after school, he came home and said he might have a cold, with symptoms of a sore throat and a slight fever! Last night, when he was sleeping, we noticed th...
Dr. Cai Changlin Reply:
Hello: The symptoms you described in your letter could be attributed to a variety of conditions, and it is not possible to make a diagnosis based solely on text. However, it is essential to rule out chickenpox, as it is contagious and pregnant women should avoid close contact. I ...[Read More] Understanding Cold Symptoms: When to Worry About Rashes and Contagion
Understanding Itchy Skin: Could It Be Scabies? Expert Insights
I would like to ask the doctor about issues related to skin itching? Hello, Dr. Jiang. I have been experiencing itching on my skin for the past couple of days, which is quite uncomfortable. I would like to ask the following questions: 1. I had scabies two years ago, which event...
Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
Please visit the dermatology outpatient clinic for diagnosis and treatment of your condition.[Read More] Understanding Itchy Skin: Could It Be Scabies? Expert Insights
Understanding Sudden Skin Allergies: Causes and Solutions
Skin allergy conditions..? Dear Dr. Chang, I would like to ask about some recent symptoms my husband has been experiencing. Over the past few days, he has developed some red, swollen rashes on his body, particularly on his shoulders and back, which resemble mosquito bites. They ...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello: If these rashes appear and then disappear within a few hours, this is urticaria (hives). Most commonly, the cause is food, but some cases are triggered by environmental allergens. Individuals with allergic tendencies may also experience a more significant allergic reaction...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Skin Allergies: Causes and Solutions
Concerns About Taking Antifungal Medication for Nail Fungus
Onychomycosis medication issues? I recently visited a doctor for a nail condition, and they prescribed a medication called Terbinafine tablets. I looked it up online, and it seems to be used for treating onychomycosis (fungal nail infection), which my nails appear to have. I didn...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello, Qingtian: Regarding your inquiry about Lamisil (terbinafine), its indications include (1) onychomycosis, (2) tinea capitis, and (3) extensive dermatophyte infections that have not responded to topical treatment, but it is ineffective against tinea versicolor. Onychomycosis...[Read More] Concerns About Taking Antifungal Medication for Nail Fungus
Understanding Transient Red Spots on the Chest: Causes and Treatments
Red rash on the chest? I sometimes have red spots on my chest that do not hurt or itch; they are not growths (not acne). Sometimes they cover my entire chest and are about the size of a small marble. After observing them multiple times, I noticed they usually fade away on their o...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello: If possible, please take photos before and after the outbreak for easier diagnosis or communication. Generally, allergies do not necessarily have to be itchy; as long as the swelling subsides within a few hours, it can be classified as urticaria. If there is a chronic carr...[Read More] Understanding Transient Red Spots on the Chest: Causes and Treatments
Should You See a Doctor for a Mysterious Rash on Your Elbow?
Do I need to see a doctor? There is a red and swollen area on the inner side of my elbow, the cause of which is unknown (I'm not sure if it was caused by an insect bite). It has a crescent shape and resembles a scar, similar to the mark left after a cut has healed. It is whi...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello: The symptoms you described are difficult to assess without seeing a photo for better communication. If it is a residual effect from insect bites, it could be papular urticaria or possibly a dermatofibroma that develops over time. In any case, it would be easier to make a d...[Read More] Should You See a Doctor for a Mysterious Rash on Your Elbow?
Understanding Athlete's Foot: Insights from a Dermatology Consultation
Hello doctor, I have a question regarding athlete's foot..? Hello Dr. Chang, this is the student Zhang who previously had athlete's foot issues. 1. Today I visited the dermatology department at Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital. However, due to wearing sneakers, m...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello: I believe it would be better to see photos for clearer communication. If there is usually peeling without itching, it is more likely to be "tinea pedis" (athlete's foot). If there is the presence of fluid and it is very itchy followed by peeling, this is ind...[Read More] Understanding Athlete's Foot: Insights from a Dermatology Consultation
Understanding Persistent Rash on Hands: Causes and Concerns
Rash on the hand? Dear Doctor, I apologize for interrupting you during your busy schedule. My situation is as follows: at the beginning of this month, I suddenly developed some small white bumps on the back of my right hand, located around the joints of my index and middle finge...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello Albert: Regarding the sudden appearance of itchy white spots on the back of your hand, this medical history suggests acute papular eczema; however, it is unusual that it has not resolved after three weeks. If you have been undergoing continuous treatment, it should improve,...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Rash on Hands: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Skin Rashes: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Skin rash Since the evening of June 14th, I developed several spots on my abdomen that resemble a red rash, but are somewhat oval-shaped. Over the following two weeks, I have continued to develop smaller spots on my body, arms, and legs, which look like small pimples. After being...
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Hello: I'm sorry, but it's not possible to make a diagnosis online. If the symptoms persist and are causing you distress, please visit a dermatologist in person. Wishing you the best.[Read More] Understanding Skin Rashes: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Understanding Eczema: Symptoms and Treatment for Summer Skin Issues
Eczema Hello doctor, every summer I get small, bubble-like bumps on my fingers, and I also have red, round-shaped rashes on other parts of my body. Could this be eczema? What should I do?
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Hello: This is a type of eczema called sweat dermatitis. If it is not too bothersome, you may ignore it. If it is causing significant itching, please consult a dermatologist.[Read More] Understanding Eczema: Symptoms and Treatment for Summer Skin Issues
Understanding Shingles: When to Seek Hospitalization for Severe Symptoms
Shingles Hello, I was diagnosed with shingles at a local clinic three days ago. The area with blisters has been spreading from my thigh to the back of my buttocks and lower back. The pain and burning sensation have been persistent and seem to be worsening. Given this situation, i...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello: Shingles is a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, and the location you mentioned likely corresponds to the lumbar region. Generally, antiviral medications (Acyclovir) should be administered either intravenously or orally within 3-4 days of the rash appearing to tre...[Read More] Understanding Shingles: When to Seek Hospitalization for Severe Symptoms
Understanding Persistent Rash on the Back of the Hand: Causes and Solutions
Rash on the back of the hand? Hello Doctor: My husband has had a rash on the back of his hand for 1 to 2 years that is neither painful nor itchy. He has seen doctors, but it hasn't improved; they all say it is eczema. However, we don't believe it is eczema. What could b...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello Peggy: It would be easier to provide suggestions if you have photos of the issue. If it has not improved for 1-2 years, it is better to visit a hospital for a skin biopsy to assist with the diagnosis.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Rash on the Back of the Hand: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Chronic Eczema: Signs, Management, and Treatment Options
Eczema Hello, I have been experiencing chronic eczema on my toes, and recently it seems to have relapsed with small blisters, which is likely dyshidrotic eczema. I would like to ask, as my previous doctor prescribed topical steroids and mentioned to apply them at the onset of a f...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao Reply:
Dear Mr. Lai: You have developed a sweat rash on your toes, which is likely due to a constitutional predisposition, commonly associated with allergic tendencies. This condition often occurs in late spring to early summer and can be triggered by irritation or heat in the foot area...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Eczema: Signs, Management, and Treatment Options
Understanding Persistent Itching: Possible Causes and Concerns
I don't know what disease it is? Hello Dr. Chang: My penis has been itching at the base since the day after I had protected sexual intercourse with a stranger. The itching is more pronounced when I walk, and it is less severe when I am sitting. When I check the itchy area, i...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello: The symptoms you described make it difficult to determine if it is a lice issue. If it is pubic lice, typically shaving the area and applying medication for 1-2 days should suffice, as pubic lice lay eggs and can also cause dermatitis symptoms (eczema). It is important to ...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Itching: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Sudden Onset of Dyshidrotic Eczema: Causes and Health Signals
I apologize, but I need to clarify your question regarding dyshidrotic eczema? Hello! Thank you for your insightful response~ I have benefited greatly and gained a better understanding of this symptom! However, I would like to learn more about the causes of its occurrence. Why ha...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello, Xiaojuan: Hand eczema and contact allergens (such as cleaning agents, medications, dirty objects, etc.) are related. One type is constitutional, meaning that even minimal exposure can trigger a strong allergic reaction (with red, itchy rashes, and in severe cases, blisters...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Onset of Dyshidrotic Eczema: Causes and Health Signals
Effective Treatments for Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris: A Comprehensive Guide
How to treat pityriasis rubra pilaris? Dr. Jiang developed numerous red rashes resembling pimples on his neck before the Lunar New Year this year. Subsequently, the rashes increased in number, spreading to his head, hands, feet, and body. The lesions are scaly and itchy. After co...
Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
Pityriasis rubra pilaris is a rare skin condition that often requires a skin biopsy for diagnosis. If confirmed, the most effective treatment currently available is oral retinoids. However, I recommend that you undergo a thorough examination at a medical center. Wishing you peace...[Read More] Effective Treatments for Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding Cholinergic Urticaria: Treatment and Management Insights
Cholinergic urticaria Hello Dr. Huang, I am the patient with cholinergic urticaria who consulted you last Friday. I would like to ask if the medication should provide noticeable improvement immediately after taking it. I have been on it for a week, but it seems like there hasn...
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Hello: Everyone reacts differently to medications. Let's try switching the medication! It may be that in the future, we can only rely on medication to manage it until it resolves on its own.[Read More] Understanding Cholinergic Urticaria: Treatment and Management Insights
Understanding Skin Irritation: Causes and Solutions for Red Bumps
Skin prick test Hello: When the weather is hot and humid, my skin feels prickly (mainly on the upper body), and later small red rashes appear. Why does this happen, and how can I improve it?
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Dear love 2007tt, The issue you are inquiring about is quite common and related to eczema caused by sweating in hot weather: miliaria, also known as heat rash. It occurs due to the obstruction of sweat ducts and the proliferation of Staphylococcus on the skin's surface. In ...[Read More] Understanding Skin Irritation: Causes and Solutions for Red Bumps
Understanding Skin Issues: Heat Rash, Allergies, and Moisturizing Solutions
Skin issues Hello: The rash you mentioned and the pictures you provided show that my red spots are small and differ from the images. The main issue is that they become very itchy when it's hot. I have seen a doctor, and some doctors said it is heat allergy, a type of urticar...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello: Heat rash, which is a type of eczema related to heat, primarily involves basic treatment that focuses on removing triggering factors and keeping the skin dry and the environment well-ventilated. The use of topical anti-itch medications or mild topical corticosteroids can i...[Read More] Understanding Skin Issues: Heat Rash, Allergies, and Moisturizing Solutions
Can Alpha Hydroxy Acid Help with Acne for Allergic Skin?
Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) I would like to ask! I have pimples all over my body! I have seen many dermatologists without any effective results! Sometimes I also get them on my neck! Why is that? One dermatologist suggested that I try glycolic acid lotion!!! But I have sensitive ski...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello, Pudding: Regarding the issue you mentioned, it seems to be a case of folliculitis. The questions of whether it itches or hurts are commonly asked! If the folliculitis is uniform and slightly itchy, you might consider seborrheic folliculitis, which can be caused by allergic...[Read More] Can Alpha Hydroxy Acid Help with Acne for Allergic Skin?