Red itchy patches on skin spreading and not improving - #8287

It's important to address your concerns about the red, itchy patches on your skin, particularly given their persistence and the associated symptoms like dryness, burning, and worsening at night. While I can't provide a definitive diagnosis, I can guide you towards understanding potential causes and recommending suitable next steps. Based on the details you've shared, conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or contact dermatitis could be possibilities. Stress can certainly exacerbate skin conditions, and certain dietary factors may contribute to flare-ups, especially if any food sensitivities exist. However, without recent changes in skincare products, an allergic reaction may be less likely. You mentioned using a regular moisturizer without improvement, which suggests that the skin barrier may be compromised. Here are some specific steps you can take: 1. Use a Gentle Moisturizer: Opt for a fragrance-free, thick emollient, such as CeraVe or Eucerin. Apply it on damp skin after bathing to help seal in moisture. 2. Consider an Over-the-Counter Hydrocortisone Cream: A low-potency hydrocortisone cream (usually 0.5% to 1%) may help reduce inflammation and itching. Use it sparingly on the affected areas, typically twice daily for a week. However, if the patches do not improve after that, cease use and consult a healthcare provider. 3. Antihistamines: While they may help with itching, they are typically more effective for allergic reactions rather than underlying skin conditions. If nighttime itching disrupts your sleep, consider taking an oral antihistamine like diphenhydramine, but use it only as needed and according to the product’s guidelines. 4. Identify Triggers: Keep a diary of any potential triggers, such as foods, stress levels, or environmental factors. This might help you identify any patterns correlating with flare-ups. 5. Avoid Scratching: Scratching can worsen the condition, so try to minimize this. Consider wearing gloves at night if itching is severe. 6. Consult a Dermatologist: Given that these patches have persisted for weeks and worsened, I strongly advise scheduling an appointment with a dermatologist. They can provide a thorough evaluation, potentially perform a skin biopsy if necessary, and recommend appropriate treatments tailored to the specific condition. Regarding your concerns about contagiousness, most common skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis are not contagious. However, if a fungal infection is suspected (e.g., ringworm), it can be contagious, and a proper diagnosis is crucial. Prioritize seeing a dermatologist for a comprehensive evaluation and guidance on the best treatment options, especially since the symptoms have been persistent and troubling. Please seek medical attention sooner if you notice signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or drainage.