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Avatar universal

Eczema, just dry skin, or something else?

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Hello everyone and thank you in advance for reading my question and posting your responses. On my lower stomach, just above my belt line/ hips on either side of my stomach I have some various brownish patches. I am a caucasian female. These brown patches are light in color and are smooth, not raised. The patches feel rough and dry to touch and occasionally itch. Basically the skin looks discolored and slightly darkened. At first I thought I may have a fungal infection so I started to use sellenium sulfide (selsum blue) shampoo on the patches. It seems to either make the patches more visible and drier. I have stopped using the shampoo and have started using a moisturerizer, Oil of Olay, and it seems to be helping a little. (I just started using it yesterday) I'm not sure if by itching it is spreading the patches, but it does seem that I gradually accumulated more patches. (I do try my hardest not to itch them). I've been looking online for symptoms of skin rashes and dry skin. It is winter time, so I wasn't sure if this is just typical for dry winter skin or if it might be eczema or something else. The patches vary in size and shape, nothing bigger than an inch long/around. Does anyone have any idea what it may be?
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Avatar universal
I have what I think is a similar spot on my stomach that I developed when I was pregnant 4 years ago.  It has not really changed and I finally remembered to ask my doctor.  He prescribed a prescription antifungal cream, which I have been using, but has not done anything but cause the skin to itch.  I will try the cream for a week or two more and then I will ask my doctor again.  The spot has not caused me any pain or discomfort for 4 years but I would like to know what it is.  I'll let you know if I find out anything.  Also, this area of my body has not been exposed to much sun or a sunburn.
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563773 tn?1374246539
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hello,

Without examination,confirmation of a diagnosis is tough but it can be discoid eczema ,pityriasis rosea, or psoriasis.
Eczema is a form of chronic dermatitis (rash).Allergic reaction is one of the important causes of eczema.

Wash the areas several times with fresh water. Do not use any cosmetic products at the sites. You can apply some calamine lotion at the rash as it will help in soothing the skin. You can take some OTC oral antihistamine medications like Benadryl or Claritin and see if it helps.

For mild-moderate eczema a weak steroid may be used (e.g. hydrocortisone as dermacort), whilst more severe cases require a higher-potency steroid (e.g. clobetasol propionate, fluocinonide).

Eczema can be exacerbated by dryness of the skin. Use good quality moisturizers to prevent moisture loss from the skin.

If the rash persists then it will be best to get it evaluated from a dermatologist.Other possibilities have to be ruled out then.

Hope it helps. Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing if you have any additional queries.

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Avatar universal
This is exactly what I have .... I am waiting for a response to mine, but will watch yours as well... good luck with an answer.

Best wishes,
Scotch
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