Genital Rash?

The other day i woke up extremely sore and dry, with tiny red bumps on my genital area- like a rash. I researched the symptoms, as well as pictures to see if i could find something similar, but i haven't found something yet. I'm 17 and i'm worried about going to a doctor right away because then my parents would know, so i decided i would seek guidance and advice elsewhere first.
Thank you!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
You have not mentioned whether you are sexually active because in that case, genital herpes should be ruled out. Genital herpes appears as one or more blisters on or around the genitals or rectum. The blisters break, leaving tender ulcers (sores) that may take two to four weeks to heal the first time they occur.

The other possibilities are contact dermatitis, folliculitis or boils. Apply warm compresses,Neosporin ointment and calamine lotion and avoid messing with it. You  can take anti-inflammatory pain killers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. If the lumps persist then it will be best to get it evaluated from a dermatologist.

I hope it helps. It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.