Stomach rash

[Summer77]

I developed a stomach rash in February of 2007 shortly after a viral infection. It consists of tiny red bumps that appear from my chest down to my waistline. At times the rash somewhat clears except for maybe 20-30 bumps. At other times I have 100 or more. They do itch, especially after bathing or swimming. If I scrub them off in the shower then they ooze and get quite sore. It is now July of 2008 and I have continuously had this rash. My dermatologist says that it is ordinary to have a rash such as this for months. Is he correct?

[Summer77]

Thanks, I usually shower twice a day so hygiene is not an issue. I don't think it is an allergy because I tend to switch soaps and detergents regularly. I don't use cosmetic products on the rash, although I sometimes use a moisturizer (not always). I have used calamine on it before but it offers no relief or change. Moisturizer helps at times-- not always. I take benadryl on a frequent basis for seasonal allergies and haven't noticed any change in the rash. As an aside, I also have rosacea outbreaks underneath my nose, for which I use Metrogel. I don't find it to be prickly heat either because I am essentially cold natured, and not obese. Thanks for the information although I am not sure where to proceed. Regards--

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

It could be eczema, sweat dermatitis, allergic reactions or miliaria - prickly heat.

You need to wash the areas several times with fresh water. Do not use any cosmetic products at the sites.

Apply calamine lotion at the site of the lesions and see if it helps. You could take some oral antihistamine medications like cetrizine or loratadine. You need to maintain a good personal hygiene .

Anti-itch drugs, often antihistamine, may reduce the itch during a flare up of eczema, and the reduced scratching in turn reduces damage and irritation to the skin.

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

Eczema can be exacerbated by dryness of the skin. Moisturizing is one of the most important self-care treatments for sufferers of eczema. Keeping the affected area moistened can promote skin healing and relief of symptoms.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eczema

Let us know if you need any further information.

It would be advisable to consult a skin specialist for your symptoms and a proper clinical examination.

Let us know if you need any other information and post us on how you are doing.

Regards.