Shingles & Face Rash

Hi

I currently have shingles (foot and leg) but in the last couple of days have developed a total face rash (non shingles). The rash appears like strong sunburn or windburn, and my skin feels tight and sensitive but there are no pustles or sores. I have not been in the sun or wind, or really outdoors too much as I have had a respitatory infection to boot.

I have finished taking post herpatic drugs for the shingles, and am on my second course of roxithromycin for the infection. I am allergic to penicillin and sulphar based drugs. Any idea what might be causing this?  Is it connected to the shingles?

I would really appreciate any advice or information, at the moment I am a 7+ hour drive from my GP....

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
I cannot confirm anything without examination but it sounds like irritant contact dermatitis.
Avoid using any lotions and creams over the face for the meantime. Wash your face with a mild cleanser with moisturizing properties like Cetaphil. Pat your face dry. Then apply a good hypoallergenic moisturizer over the area and see if this improves. If the symptoms still persist then you can apply mild steroid like dermacort.

If the irritation persists then please get it evaluated from a dermatologist.
Hope it helps .Take care and please do keep us posted in case you have any additional queries. Kind regards.