Health problems will catch up with all of us sooner or later – whether it’s sudden side pain, a tooth ache, or your head is just “not in the right place”. And not every symptom is clear and understandable. There are (and quite often) situations when it is almost impossible to understand the cause of this or that ailment. One of these symptoms is red itchy spots on the skin.
If red itchy spots appear on the body, the idea that it is an allergy, is the first to come to mind. However, the doctors assure us, it is the most common mistake. After all, red spots are not always a sign of an allergic reaction. And, often anti-allergenic drugs do not help. Naturally, it is best to seek medical advice when you have a symptom of this kind. The doctor will be able to determine exactly what the cause of the problem is and select the correct treatment.
It’s not necessary to rush to the emergency room immediately. Emergency specialists may be needed only if you have observed a sharp rise in temperature, shortness of breath, or if swelling and itching becomes unbearable.
The causes of itchy red spots on the skin
Based on the assessment results the doctor will establish the possible cause of the red itchy spots on your skin. Among them are:
- scleroderma,
- psoriasis,
- vitiligo,
- allergy,
- fungus, etc.
Scleroderma
Scleroderma can be distinguished from other types of diseases by the location of the spots. So, if they are located mostly on the hands and feet, you can speak with confidence about the presence of such a diagnosis. Scleroderma is an inflammation of the connective tissue, which is triggered by an immune system deficiency. Typically, this is a congenital deficiency. Of course, this does not mean that you will always have the spots. They will only appear during a beakout. For example, when you have a cold or a viral disease. Due to the heavy load on the vessels in this period, small vascular network fails, they become thinner, permeable and virtually defenseless. When they burst from the load, red spots appear on the skin. It is impossible to self-cure this condition.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis can be distinguished by the presence of white skin flakes on the red patches. These spots can spread throughout the body and they are very itchy. However, you must not scratch them with hands or other devices: there is a risk of the contagion to spread through the body. Psoriasis can not be cured. But, you don’t have to suffer from it all your life. Therefore, doctors suggest the use of special techniques, procedures and medications that help keep the disease under control.
Vitiligo
Another disease that causes itchy red spots on the body is vitiligo. This disease is quite rare. At the same time, except for the spots, people don’t suffer any systems – no pain, no other abnormalities, only the spots. Vitiligo’s down side is that it is incurable. However, as in the case of psoriasis it can be controlled, but, only with full compliance to all medical advice.
Allergic reactions can be caused by many things. Red itchy spots are characterized by eczema, urticaria, atopic dermatitis, etc. Any one of these can occur suddenly and unexpectedly. Moreover, the reaction is almost impossible to trace. After all, there is a possibility that the spots appeared in response to receiving substandard or harmful food.
Third-party pathogens
Spots can possibly be the result to ingestion of a third-party pathogen – allergen. In any case, if you think that you have an allergic reaction, you should take an antihistamine and observe the spots. The reduction in size of spots, as well a reduction in itching will begin almost instantly. To avoid a repetition of the situation, you should definitely see a doctor.
Sometimes these red itchy spots that are allergic in nature can coincide with other characteristic allergy symptoms: nasal congestion, sneezing, copious tearing, etc.
Another reason why a person may have red itchy spots on the body is a fungal infection. And the mistake is to think that the fungus will manifest itself solely on the legs or fingers. A number of fungal diseases actively settles all over the body, settling in the groin, chest, back, etc. Such spots often appear as flat light pink areas. They are very similar to birthmarks, just different in color.
Other reasons for the appearance of red spots on the body, which may also strongly itch, can be caused by insect bites, alcohol, and excessive sweating. In this situation, special treatment is not required, you just need to lead a healthy lifestyle and practice good hygene.
How to deal with red spots on the body
After the doctor gives the preliminary diagnosis based on his assessment and the patient’s complaint, he must run the appropriate tests.
In most cases, an accurate diagnosis is made by taking samples. Dermatologists will gently scrub the spot with special tools and give the material to the laboratory. It is worth remembering that the study may take a couple of days, so you have to be patient.
Firstly, it is worth taking an antihistamine to relieve the itching. The dosage can be prescribed by a doctor, or you can use it as it is specified in the instructions. Stronger medications can be prescribed by your dermatologist.
Some beauty treatments can be used to deal with the manifestations of spots. These are ointments, masks, hormonal pills, and more. Treatment should be appointed by a professional.
Treatment rules
At the time of treatment it is required to observe a number of rules. Firstly, no matter what, do not scratch the spot, no matter how much you want to. You can get a skin infection. Against the background of already existing problems will likely make your condition more severe. In addition, by scratching red itchy spots, you run the risk of spreading the disease throughout the body.
All ointments and creams must be by prescription only. After all, what is good for one person does not go for all. In this case, you can damage your health even more. If the symptoms are not relieved in the first few days, contact your doctor.
Include vitamins into your diet. They will help to boost immunity to the body. Naturally, it is necessary to adjust the menu and abandon all harmful products. Give preference to the use of fresh fruits and vegetables.
But, remember that not all vegetables and fruits are equally useful. For example, it is necessary to abandon citrus products and fruit and vegetables with red skin. They have very strong allergens.
After the doctor ascertains the cause of the red spots, he will be able to appoint a full course of treatment or prevention of the problem. The main thing is – do not panic and strictly adhere to all the doctor’s instructions. And then the disease will bother you no more.
