Red and Itchy welts on hand

On Tuesday, I developed an itchy welt on the back of my left hand. It looked and itched like a bug bite. Two days later, it's almost gone, but if I make a fist, I can see a little raised area. On Wednesday, I got a new one on the knuckle of my pinky as well as one in the outer part of the middle digit of the pinky. Thursday morning, I had another on the palm about half and inch below my ring finger. All of this on the same hand. What could this be? I quickly checked my bed for bed bugs, but I don't think they'd bite in the same continuous area anyways.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
I cannot confirm anything without examination but it can be contact dermatitis, sweat dermatitis, hives or eczema. Apply some calamine lotion on the affected area and keep the area well moisturized.

Topical steroids can be applied but they are available under prescription. Moreover to prevent infection, topical antibiotics may be needed. I suggest you to consult a dermatologist and get it evaluated. Till then you can take some antihistaminics like Benadryl.
I hope it helps. Take care and regards.