Unbearable itching

[1953madison]

Friday afternoon at work (in a school) my ankles started itching. When I got home I took my socks off and there were small raised bumps on my ankles and heels. Later in the day these small welts appeared on the inside of my thighs just above my knees and the top of my feet. I used a cortisone cream to help alleviate the itch and took the recommended dose of an antihistamine cold tablets. I stopped taking my daily dose of Allegra, I use for seasonal allergies. Sat. the welts started to appear on a larger area of my thighs. Again I took the antihistamine tablets and continued to use the cortisone cream which afforded some relief. The itching kept me awake Sat. night and at 2:30 a.m. I finally called a 24/7 nurse hot line. She was baffled too and made some suggestions. I then tried calamine lotion and had minimal relief. So Sunday I went to an urgent care facility in the area. I was able to show the Dr. previous spots and newly forming welts on the inside of my upper arms. He wasn't sure what was causing the welts either but he did prescribe methylprednisolone, told me that I should resume taking the Allegra and if the "methyl" doesn't work he gave me a prescription for Elimite 5% cream to use at night and wash off in the a.m. I took today off work since the rash seems to still be spreading and I have a cold. Later today I put clean white socks on and shoes and a couple hours later my ankles started that incredible itching again. I have taken them off and am wearing slip on slippers with no itching. However since I'm sitting the back of my thighs are itching! HELP what is going on?


This discussion is related to itchy rash.

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi,

This sounds like an allergic reaction to an unknown trigger. At this point, there must be something in your socks which could have caused this. Was this a new pair of socks?
Any new detergent or soap you have used?

Any significant outdoor activity which could have exposed you to some triggers like certain plants, pets, food ?

With a previous history of allergies, this strengthens the differential of an allergic component. There may be an underlying dermatitis which explains the itchiness and persistence. Continue with your medications. Avoid wearing the socks. Observe your condition. If this persists, discuss with your physician a referral to an allergologist  for further assessment.