What causes rash to spread on body?
Patient: I apparently came in contact with poison ivy 5 days ago. A rash started to show up on my arms the next day and my lips began to tingle. It s not the first time I ve had poison ivy so I went to the store and got some Benadryl and some Ivarest cream. By the next morning my lips were swollen with little blisters on the edges and my eye was almost swollen shut. I went to the doctor s office and got a shot and prescriptions for a topical cream and a pill pack of methyliprednisolone. I have been religiously taking the pills and applying the cream as well as taking baths in Aveeno oatmeal bath twice daily but while the rash is getting better in some areas it is continuing to spread in others (my face is nearly cleared up but now the rash is on my stomach where it wasn t before). My other concern is there is a softball size rash on the back of my knee that is turning dark purple. I m just wondering if I should be worried or if there is something else going on? Doctor: Hi Dear,Understanding your concern. As per your query you have symptoms of rash which is spreading across body which is very common due to allergic reaction and contact dermatitis.Need not to worry. I would suggest you to keep this area clean and dry , apply cream containing azelaic acid , apply warm compresses with soaked towel and apply vitamin C serum at night. You should avoid touching or pricking rashes. If condition doesn't get better then consult dermatologist for proper examination . Doctor will examine physically along with blood test and sample for lab test . Doctor may prescribe immunosuppressants , antibiotics like clindamycin , anti inflammatory or anti fungal . Doctor may also prescribe benzoyl peroxide ointment .Hope your concern has been resolved.Best Wishes,Dr. Harry Maheshwari