Suggest Treatment For Itchy Rashes On The Back

Posted on Tue, 31 Jan 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 31 Jan 2017 Answered on

Fri, 17 Feb 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I have a rash on my back. It is red boils in a spot. It itches and burns. When i sit on a chair it become more red and bigger boils. It I let it air out and don't sit down with my back against the chair It seems to get better.

I attach a pic. What do you think this is and how can I get rid of it?

Answered by Dr. Nishad BN (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Looks like herpes zoster.

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thank you for asking HCM.

I have gone through your query and picture. It looks like herpes zoster. This is caused by chicken pox virus. Taking anti viral drugs like valacyclovir will be helpful. This is a prescription drug given in dosage of 500 mg once daily for 5 to 7 days. You can also apply acyclovir cream for local application.

Let me know if anything not clear.
I am happy to help you.
Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Nishad BN (18 minutes later)

How will this take to heal? Do i have to go to a doctor to get the meds. It seems like in the morning it is not so red but by sitting all day it becomes red and itches alot .

Answered by Dr. Nishad BN (17 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
It usually takes 2 to 4 weeks to heal.

Detailed Answer:
Welcome again.

Thank you for your follow up query.

It usually takes 2 to 4 weeks to heal. Anti viral drugs like valacyclovir and local acyclovir cream will speed up healing. As these are prescription drugs it is better to have a consultation with your GP or dermatologist.
For controlling itching you can take antihistamines like cetrizine ( zyrtec ) once daily. This is available as over the counter.

Let me know if anything not clear.
I am happy to help you.
Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D