tiny red flat itchy dots. started on breast slowly spreading to lower stomach legs and arms

Hi, I am 18 years old and I just came back from Costa Rica about 5 days ago when I realized my breasts and back were extremely itchy. I went to take a shower later that day and i noticed small flat bright pink dots COVERING my boobs. Like I said, I just got back from Costa Rica so it was hard to notice the dots on my arms and lower abdomine bc i was so tan but believe me, I could feel them and it bright light I could also see them. I just woke up this morning and they have spread to my thighs and my upper calves and it is now more visable on my forearms. I believe i have a fever but i'm not entirely sure and I'm really achey (achy). Ive been taking allergy medicine (like prednisone and allegra prescriptions) advil to deal with the acheyness, and also OTC creams like calmamine lotion. NOTHING HAS HELPED!!! I'm extremely itchy and achey (achy). Could anyone please give me some peace of mind?


(oh and the dr's office only has men on Saturday's so that'll be my last resort.)

-Sarah

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
These flat itchy red spots can be due to allergies, viral rashes, heat rash or pityriasis rosea. Pityriasis rosea is a common human skin disease which presents as numerous patches of pink or red oval rash. The rash may be accompanied by low-grade headache, fever, nausea and fatigue and itching. Topical and oral steroids are needed. Water, sweat, and soap may cause irritation and should be avoided in the disease. Topical zinc oxide and calamine lotion are useful for pruritus.

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 dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.