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What Causes Itchy Rash On Both Arms?

Posted on Sat, 13 Dec 2014

Question: My fiance has a rash on both arms that itches non stop, when he scratches tiny red bumps appear around the sore area. The bumps are not all the same size there's a red/pinkish color on the infected area, mainly after he has been scratching the area. He has been to a primary physician and a dermatologist. We've done everything they've said to do and still no relief.

Answered by Dr. Geetika Paul (47 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Kindly provide some details

Detailed Answer:
Hi

I understand your concern regarding your skin problem and I hope I am able to help you in the same.
I have seen the attached pictures.
Owing to the type of skin rash your fiancée has and owing to the sites of involvement ,I think he has developed a eczematous skin rash which could be related to sun.
I would like to know if the rash is more over the outer aspect of arms or over the inner area .This is to see if the sun exposed outer lower arm has more itching or rash .
Is he using anything like dettol or savlon over the area or applying any oil?

Dr Geetika Paul

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Geetika Paul (1 hour later)

It's not eczematous. He's had a slight case of shingles before. This pain and itching is the same but it doesn't have the same symptoms as Shingles. He's not out in the sun enough for that to be a factor. It is located on the tops of both arms. We've quit putting anything on it as of last night, except for vasaline. Is there a strong over the counter anti-itch medicine that will at least stop the itching and burning. This has been going on for three weeks, still no relief. He does have a low immune system, addisons, graves disease, and over active thyroid. He takes predinosone daily...... Also has high blood pressure.

Answered by Dr. Geetika Paul (9 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Need long term treatment

Detailed Answer:
Hi again

This rash does not seem to be associated with shingles.
It is basically an eczematous skin rash which can occur due to various reasons .
Application of topical steroid creams containing cortisone helps in most cases with similar presentation .
Adequate application of moisturisers is also required.
Wear full sleeved clothes when out in the sun or apply a sunscreen before going out over the affected areas .
Antihistamine intake also helps to bring down the allergic response .
Long term treatment is required in such cases ,so you can schedule an appointment and see adermatologist with whom you can regularly follow up .

Dr Geetika Paul

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar