My GP wasn't much use in terms of a diagnosis. So, any thoughts, ideas, and especially cures would be much-appreciated. The rash begins on my chest and back, quite small, round, slightly raised red welts--these do not itch much. The uglier part of the rash is on my face. I woke up this morning with a red and itchy forehead and nose, and it's slowly spread over the rest of my face during the day. It's more a 'solid' rash on my face--that is, not spots like on my belly. I'm just getting over a bad 48-hr flu. The doctor says the rash could be from the virus, but he is skeptical of this because virus-related rashes do not affect the face. He thinks it may be a drug-reactant rash, but none of the meds I've taken seem to have this side effect profile. I took Tylenol (not overdose, but a lot during my high fever period), a few doses of cough syrup, and nutritional supplements (L-Tyrosine, DLPA, 5HTP). He says the amio acids are unlikely culprits. On antihistamines now, but no change. Help?
2007-01-23 09:18:58 · 5 answers · asked by pat800 1 in Health ➔ Diseases & Conditions ➔ Allergies
Anna Z: I should see a dermatologist, but I'm in the UK now and hard to see any type of specialist. But it's hard to see how it could be a skin 'disease' since it literally appeared overnight and is itchy as hell. What disease are you thinking it could be?
2007-01-23 09:35:17 · update #1
lialove: if you don't know what to say, why'd you bother to say anything at all?
2007-01-23 09:36:12 · update #2
my2cents: Thanks for the excellent advice. I'm just so reluctant to quit the amino acids, though, because they've been an ENORMOUS help with my depression and fatigue. Honestly, better than any SSRI I've ever tried, and I've tried them all.
2007-01-23 09:38:32 · update #3
eskie: Oops, I had already put cortizone oitment on my face--doesn't say anything on the container warning not to. What exactly is the risk of hydrocortisone cream with trace steroids on the face?
2007-01-23 09:41:17 · update #4
Jacuzzi: The cough syrup was a UK-brand I'd never heard of (my partner bought it for me). It's called Benylin, for "chesty coughs" --actually, you're right, I'm going to look more into this specific product.
2007-01-23 09:47:25 · update #5
Jacuzzi, you know what? I think you hit the nail on the head. I just found this information online about the "Benylin Chesty Coughs" I took three times a day for the past two days:
"Very rarely, people may develop hypersensitivity reactions. These may include reddened skin, itching or skin rashes. If you develop swelling of the face, lips and/or tongue, contact your doctor immediately."
2007-01-23 09:53:09 · update #6
I use a lot of oatmeal to relieve itching, they make powders for baths, moisturizer, bar and liquid soap. (Aveeno, Sauve, Avon and Equate all make them) Witch hazel will also help reduce the redness and the itch. Rubbing alcohol and cider vinegar are also home remedies for rashes. You can also get a cream at the drugstore called Sarna that will moisturize and help the rash. I wouldn't use a hydrocortisone cream on your face because it is steriodal, but you can use it on your chest. I'm wondering whether you are hiving...
2007-01-23 09:25:45 · answer #1 · answered by eskie lover 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There could be a reaction to the combination of medicines you've taken. It could also be as simple as an allergic reaction to a new soap or detergent. It could also be a food allergy. Eliminate the nutritional supplements and stick to a good multivitamin. Stay hydrated. If you have any trouble breathing or feel weak, see a doctor immediately (emergency room if necessary). Careful with the Tylenol. It only takes about 1600-1800 mg a day to be toxic. Hope you feel better soon.
2007-01-23 09:24:44 · answer #2 · answered by Tellin' U Da Truth! 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Antihistamines could flame them up more. I had an alergic reaction to them once it was awful!
Go to CVS and get an over the counter hydracortizone and rub it on the rash, it should take it away and stop the itching!!
I'd also try to take a pill like benadryl before you go to bed at night. It's an allergy pill that should help too.
2007-01-23 09:23:39 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
What kind of cough medicine. My boyfriend was ellergic to nyquil. Try some neosporane on it.
2007-01-23 09:43:30 · answer #4 · answered by Jacuzzi Lover 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Try some calamine lotion or a baking soda bath - get well soon! drink a ton of water too
2007-01-23 09:23:04 · answer #5 · answered by Tiger by the Tail 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hi, are you sure that this is an allergy? It looks like skin disease. Better go to dermatologist.
2007-01-23 09:31:25 · answer #6 · answered by anna z 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
uh...sorry...don't know what to say....
2007-01-23 09:22:23 · answer #7 · answered by lialove_18 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋