red hard rash bumps

yesturday morning I woke up itching all over my thighs and arms.I notice when I took a closer look they were the size of dimes hard bumps rised above the skin.I also notice when I used hydrocortisone it's just like a regular oh rash.what can this be?I also took pictures if you would like to see them.your advice is appreciated.the redhardrash

[Dr_Smita_S]

Hi,

There could be several causes for these bumps like hives, insect bites, dermatitis or any allergic reaction.
It would be difficult to assess without having a look at the lesions.

Hives or urticaria is a condition which causes red and sometimes itchy bumps on your skin. Hives can occur anywhere on the body such as the trunk, arms, and legs.

They are usually allergic (food, medication and insect stings) but may also be due to infections and stress. Many a times no specific cause for them is ever found.

They usually go away on their own. The most commonly used oral treatments are antihistaminics (such as cetirizine, loratidine, benadryl available over the counter). You may try calamine lotion locally which has a soothing effect. You need to maintain a good personal hygiene and thoroughly wash several times daily. Avoid using any cosmetic products.
However, if the symptoms persist or increase in frequency or intensity or you experience any difficulty in breathing or sweating etc, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Do write in if you need any other information.

[helpmyrash]

thanks alot for the advice.i still have the rash on my thighs and lower legs after repeated use of hydrocortisone most of the rash has went away from my upper arms and back arms.but my thighs don't seem to cure.shoud i do back to the doctor?what i don't recall is she didn't tell me what was the cause of it.she did say however it can be insect bites or an infection she prescribed hydrocortisone and bectrom incase i had some infection.should i go back now or wait til the infection medication finishes?Im sick of itching all day down there"my thighs".thanks.i do have pictures of my back arms if you have an email address i can send you one or 2.thanks and god bless.sincerly helpmyrash