Hot Tub Rash?

[Kitt986]

My son is 18 years old. We have a hot tub. The hot tub had not been used for at least a week and the chemical levels had not been checked in that same amount of time. Three days ago my son went into the hot tub without checking the levels twice in the same day for approximately 30 minutes each time. The water temperature was 104 degrees. Today, three days later my son developed intense itching all over his body. He has a light pin point like rash on his back, buttocks, legs and arms. He does not have any facial swelling around his eyes as he has with other allergic type reactions in the past. I have given him Benadryl which offers him minimal relief from itching. I was told by a friend that this sounds like maybe it was caused by too low of chlorine or bromine levels in the hot tub. Could this be hot tub folliculitis and if so what should I do to treat it? Please advise.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

I cannot confirm anything without examination,but it can be due to contact dermatitis,heat rashes or due to dermatitis. Pls apply some calamine lotion on the rashes and avoid scratching them.You can also give some over the counter antihistaminic like benadryl or Claritin.They will help in controlling itching.Sometimes they may be required for longer duration.

Application of mild steroid cream like dermacort will also help.But if the symptoms persist then a dermatologist has to be consulted.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how your son is doing.

[Kitt986]

I just wanted to update you on my son's rash that I suspect is from the hot tub. He is still itchy, but the rash itself is not as apparent. I have continued to give him regular Benadryl, but think that perhaps I should change to Claritin as it is non-drowsy. How long should I expect this to last if it is related to the hot tub? Would you recommend using a moisturizer? I did get him some topical analgesic spray for itching that can be used 1-3 x a day, but it offers short term relief at best. Would Calamine lotion be a better more effective choice? Please advise. Thank you.

Kitt986

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Thanks for keeping me updated.It is advisable to use Claritin because it is less sedative.The antihistaminics may be needed for 2-4 weeks also depending on the relief of symptoms.Calamine lotion provides soothing effect and is generally recommended.Pls don’t apply moisturizers unless dryness is there.If the symptoms persist then oral and more potent topical steroids may be needed.Even infections have to be ruled out.You will have to consult a dermatologist for that because steroids are available on prescription.

Hope it helps .Take care and pls do keep us posted in case you have any additional queries.Kind regards.