Suggest Treatment For Itchy Red Bump On Arm

Posted on Thu, 10 Sep 2015

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

Thu, 10 Sep 2015 Answered on

Thu, 1 Oct 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I have a red bump on my arm about the size of a quarter, it is slightly raised, itching, it showed up out of nowhere at this size and has been there for almost 12 hours. I use to wear a fitbit HR on that risk about where the bump sits but removed it because it kept rubbing and making things itch more. I have tried icing it to get the swelling to go down but it did not last long. I have alos used Melaleuca oil to help with it and it kept the itching at a tolerable level for a short time. is there anything else that can be dose about it or anything that could help? any thoughts on what it could be as well.

Answered by Dr. Ilyas Patel (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Contact allergic dermatitis most probably

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Welcome to HCM...

I read history and looked at photo you posted. I deeply feel that most probably you may be having contact allergic dermatitis. And the allergen may be the material in fitbitHR you are wearing. There may be itchy erythematous patch or plaque on affected part. You consult dermatologist for firm diagnosis. However I would suggest as below...

- antihistaminics like levocetirizine 5mg at night to relieve itch
- oral steroids in tappering dose till the lesion disappear
- to apply mild steroid cream
- to avoid contact with suspected allergen

I hope this would help you..Still,any query, you may ask..ok

Thanks.

Dr. Ilyas Patel MD

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Neel Kudchadkar

Follow up: Dr. Ilyas Patel (12 hours later)

it is raised and the skin has become ruffer and a little tuffer. is this normal or do I need immediate medical attention

Answered by Dr. Ilyas Patel (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Allergic contact dermatitis most probably

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Welcome back...

Its seems to me that this is Contact Dermatitis. Not that it is life threatening, but without treatment, it can be very difficult to control. Over the Counter Antihistaminics like Cetrizine (Zyrtec) and Over the Counter steroid creams (1% Hydocortisone) would be the best initial treatment for that.

However, I feel it would be best if you consult a dermatologist to have a firm diagnosis. After thorough examination he/she will advise more permanent treatment and decide if maybe the plastics in the fitbit's casing is irritating your skin. .

Thanks.

Dr. Ilyas Patel MD

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj