Recurring rash on wrists, around eyes

Hi!  I'm a 35 y.o. female in good health, except... I've been getting this weird rash for the past 3 years.  It happens once or twice a year (always in January, sometimes later in the year too).  The rash starts as round red bumps (that look similar to ring worm) that get very itchy and spreads to the inside of both wrists, around both eyes, sometimes up each side of my throat and sometimes on my feet.  The bumps never get larger or more spread out than maybe a dime.  It typically clears up in about 7-10 days, but it's uncomfortable and embarrassing while it lasts. During this outbreak I've been drinking lots of burdock root/ dandelion root/ lemon balm tea and I've also been swabbing the affected area with it.  It hasn't been itching or spreading as severely.. but it's still there. Any ideas for what this could be?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
I cannot confirm anything without examination but it can be granuloma annulare, nummular dermatitis or fungal infection like ringworm. Granuloma annulare is a chronic disease consisting of a rash with reddish bumps arranged in a circle or ring. Usually it is asymptomatic but due to cosmetic disfigurement topical or oral steroids may be needed.
The next time it appears, then please get it evaluated from a dermatologist. 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.