Sensitive Skin Recently

[teppasteak]

Let me explain, so I've had every STD/HIV test and even seen a dermatologist who said it's just an allergic reaction, but this has persisted for about 3 months now. So when I rub my skin, either light or rough it gets red and bumps appear but go away within minutes. My dermatologist prescribed fexofenadine (Allegra) and that helps.

My derm said that it was Ecsastencia (? not sure if i spelled that right or remember the exact name), but he was in a rush and just told me to take the prescription and that was it. I wanted a second opinion, but wanted to check here first to get some feedback.

Other than that my skin looks perfectly normal unless touched.. The slightest scratch will also produce a slight red blotchy patch where it was contacted. It only welts/bumps when not taking Allegra (fexofenadine)....

Has anybody encoutered this? BTW, is throughout my entire body, but primarily around elbows. forearm and around the thigh area. I've been having loose stools and nothing else really.

Thank you,

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
What you are having is 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.

[maatson]

Dermographism.