Long Red Itchy Marks!!!

[Huiny]

Throughout the day, when I scratch an itchy surface on my skin, I get these long red itchy lines (like a bumpy rash) on my skin! They itch severely, but disappear without a trace in 15-30 mins.... Occasionally, I have small bumps near the long red lines, but the bumps are not red, they are just raised. Any ideas what this is?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
The symptoms are suggestive of dermatographism. Dermatographism can be caused by stress, tight or abrasive clothing, watches, glasses, energetic kissing, heat, cold, or anything that causes stress to the skin. In many cases it is merely a minor annoyance, but in some rare cases symptoms are severe enough to impact a patient's life.

It can be treated by antihistamines or cromoglicate and sometimes steroids, as they prevent the histamine from causing the reaction. As the underlying cause of dermographism is not known, it can last for many years without relief.
If symptoms persist then get it evaluated from your doctor.
I hope it helps. Take care and regards.

[maatson]

'Dermographism' (Physical urticaria). Antihistaminics help. Consult doc.