sensitive skin welping

[kiwi25]

Since adolescence, my skin seems so sensitive that a light scratch of an itch, or even picking up boxes, leave red  (painless) welps on my body that dissapear after about 7 minutes. I look like I've clawed myself and had an allergic reaction. What could be causing this for so many years? I'm  25 now. I changed to milder soaps and seen no improvements.

[kiwi25]

Thank you for answering my question, I honestly just wanted a name for what I have so I wouldnt have so much trouble explaining my welps. Even the doctors I saw didnt understand it.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
The symptoms that you are having are due to dermatographism. Dermatographism can be caused by stress, tight or abrasive clothing, watches, glasses, energetic kissing, heat, cold, or anything that causes stress to the skin. In many cases it is merely a minor annoyance, but in some rare cases symptoms are severe enough to impact a patient's life.

It can be treated by antihistamines or cromoglicate and sometimes steroids, as they prevent the histamine from causing the reaction. As the underlying cause of dermographism is not known, it can last for many years without relief.

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.