Hives from my job?

[pojke]

Hello:
  I have recently started a sous chef job in a restaurant and since then I have developed a rash/break out on my neck spreading to my shoulders and back.  For the first two weeks it was small but now it is rapidly spreading and worsening alternating in small white heads and hives, how can I cure this and prevent this?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms it can be hives, sweat dermatitis or heat rash. Avoid using any lotions and creams for the meantime. Use a mild cleanser with moisturizing properties like Cetaphil. Also use cotton clothes and change the clothes twice if there is any increased sweating. Try keeping the skin free of sweat as far as possible. If the symptoms still persist then you can apply mild steroid like dermacort. For the itching antihistaminics like Benadryl or Claritin can be taken.

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.

[Cindy]

Hi

You may have an allergy to something in the kitchen such as dish detergent or cleaning agent...OR you may be nervous about your new job.  First and foremost you should see a Dermatologist to rule out any serious allergy or medical condition.