Painful, sensitive skin.

[pinkskulls2078]

For about 2 weeks now, I've had 2 spots on my body where the skin is very sensitive to the touch.  The best way to describe it, is that I almost feels like a sunburn.  There is no rash, no redness, or anything else.  The skin looks completely normal. It started in my left armpit, shortly after shaving, so I ignored it at first assuming it was razor burn.  The area has spread now and covers the full armpit, and works its way into my arm, and around the back to my shoulder blade.  It has also started on my left hip and the area there is getting larger as well.  I've been getting shingles since I was in my early 20's, but never in these areas, and none of the times I've gotten it have felt like this.  It is JUST the skin.  If I actually press on it, there is no pain, but if my shirt even lightly brushes against it, there is a lot of pain.  Any suggestions?

[TG812]

Did you ever find out what your problem was?

[2130sam]

What was wrong are you ok ?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to chafing or dermatitis skin. You need to get it examined from a dermatologist to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment is diagnosis specific. However if there are any appearance of bumps or blisters then shingles should be ruled out.
You should also maintain hygiene and try to keep the area clean and dry, wear loose-fitting cotton clothing. Also use an antibacterial soap or mild soap like dove. Avoid deodorant / cosmetics. You can also use calamine lotion or cream with zinc oxide paste applied directly to wet skin after bathing.

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.