skin itching and rashes

yesterday after shaving my arm pit and showering i discovered my arm was cut as a result of the shaving. i however disregard the cut an applied my 'right guard' deodorant under my arm and over the minor cuts. minutes after that i began to experience itches in my back and further all over my skin. i went to work and could barely cope, last night i scratched the whole night through and i'm still itching immensely now. i kno its not any allergy cuz i do not have allergies and it cant be food poisoning based on the food i had yesterday. i need some medical advice please!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It looks like seborrheic dermatitis. Seborrhoeic Dermatitis is believed to be an inflammatory reaction related to the proliferation of normal skin habitant Malassezia – a yeast, which produces toxic substances that infect and irate the skin. The disease is neither contagious nor related with diet but it may be aggravated by other illness like Psychological stress, immune compromised patients, neurological diseases like Parkinsonism and stroke.

Treatment usually involves use of antifungal, anti inflammatory and sebo suppressive or Keratolytic ingredients. Dermatologist also recommends the use of photodynamic therapy which involves the usage of UV- A, UV- B laser and red or blue LED light to inhibit the growth of the yeast and reduces the inflammation. If symptoms do not improve with ketoconazole then these treatment options can be planned.

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.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Such a rash which appears suddenly and burns and itches can be due to contact dermatitis or hives due to an allergy. Wash the area with a mild cleanser with moisturizing properties like Cetaphil. Then apply a good hypoallergenic moisturizer over the area and wear cotton clothes. If the symptoms still persist then please get it evaluated from a dermatologist.

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.