Itchy Red Bumps on Skin – Potential Causes and Treatment

We’ve all had it happen: You feel a surprise itch, and when you reach down to scratch your skin feels rough and bumpy. You look in the mirror and see a red, irritated patch. Although they can be incredibly annoying, red, itchy, bumpy rashes are very common. But what causes your skin to break out like that?

There are potentially hundreds of conditions that can cause your skin to flare up in protest. Luckily very few of them are serious, although certain skin issues should be checked out by a doctor

Red Bumps – Trace Your Steps 

Outbreaks of itchy red skin bumps are very common and have many different causes. If you’re experiencing outbreaks, there are a couple of things you should consider before talking to a doctor. Having these things in mind will help the doctor make a more accurate diagnosis. 

Is this what you have? Try our FREE Skin Image Search today and get peace of mind

Itchy Red Bumps – What is the cause?

Recent Contact?

First of all, you should think about anything unusual you’ve come into contact with recently. This list can include both natural materials (such as fruits or leaves) and artificial ones (like household chemicals). Then you should check to see if anything on that list stands out to you: maybe you ate a fruit that you don’t normally eat, or used a new soap that you just bought. If something jumps out, it’s likely that you have allergy related hives.

A remote doctor can confirm a case of allergy related hives in just a few minutes . After getting your case diagnosed, you should ask your primary doctor about getting a blood allergy test. The blood allergy test can look at your sensitivity to hundreds of different allergens and give you a full picture of your allergies. You can use that information to avoid outbreaks in the future.

Disease of Infection?

If your rash doesn’t seem related to an outside source, the next most likely cause is a disease or infection. Infection related rashes are easy to spot because they normally come with other symptoms. They also usually appear after contact with an infected person.

There are dozens of different types of infections that can cause itchy red bumps to appear on the skin, including chickenpox and impetigo. Skin diseases caused by parasites, such as scabies, also fall into this category. Before talking to a doctor, take a few minutes to list out your other symptoms (if you have any). Giving the doctor this information makes it much easier for them to narrow down the possible causes, which means a faster and more accurate diagnosis.

Noticed something similar? Try our FREE Skin Image Search today and get peace of mind

Outbreak – Time period? 

Finally, think about how long your outbreak lasts. This information is important because different causes create rashes and red bumps with different durations. Allergy related hives, for example, rarely last more than a day (as long as the allergen is removed). Outbreaks caused by infections, on the other hand, typically last much longer. Doctors can use information about the length of your outbreak to confirm their diagnosis.

Itchy red bumps are annoying and uncomfortable, but they’re typically not difficult to diagnose and treat when doctors have the right information. If you’re struggling with an outbreak of itchy red bumps, take a few minutes to consider the questions above and have a remote doctor take a quick look. Their expertise might save you a lot of discomfort!

Is this what you have? Try our FREE Skin Image Search today and get peace of mind

Itchy Red Bumps – Most Common Causes 

OK, so you’ve gone through our questions and now you’re left wondering what those itchy red bumps are exactly… First you could try our Artificial Intelligence, this will anonymously provide an answer just from an image of your skin. Its 80% accurate, so if you would prefer the eyes of a dermatologist then of course, we have a solution for that too! 

Acne

Sometimes called pimples or zits, happens when dirt, oil, sweat, and dead skin cells block pores. The blockage can become compressed and hard, forming blackheads or whiteheads. Bacteria trapped in the pore cause a small infection, filling the pore with pus and making the surrounding skin red, swollen and painful.

An example of Acne on the Face

Acne is the most common skin condition and happens most often during adolescence, when surging hormones stimulate the production of oil and sweat. It usually occurs on the face, but can be found on the neck, chest, back, groin, or shoulders. It’s not a serious condition, but heavy acne can be embarrassing and scratching can cause scarring.

Ask a dermatologist today

There are many over-the-counter medications for treating acne containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid like CeraVe Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment. These ingredients can help remove bacteria and stop pores from becoming clogged. However, if those medications are ineffective, a dermatologist can provide stronger treatments to heal existing acne and prevent future breakouts.

Eczema 

This is a skin condition that causes patches of dry, red skin that are very itchy. In some people eczema patches look rough or scaly. It’s common in babies and young children, especially on the cheeks or in folds of the skin such as behind the knees. Most children outgrow eczema, but sometimes it first appears or sticks around into adulthood. Eczema needs to be diagnosed by a doctor but can usually be treated at home.

Example of Eczema on the Neck

For most people, eczema is exacerbated by triggers, or things in the environment that cause the skin to react. Dry air or skin is often a trigger; keeping the skin well-moisturized and using a humidifier can help a great deal. For other people irritants or mild allergies can cause eczema rashes to appear. Eczema can even be set off by stress or hormones.

Treatment involves avoiding triggers and irritating chemicals or clothing, taking lukewarm showers, and keeping the skin well-hydrated. If symptoms persist, a dermatologist can prescribe a steroid cream or even phototherapy, which uses UV light to reduce the itch.

Ask a dermatologist today

Insect bites 

Especially mosquito bites, are a common cause of itchiness and bumpy skin. Other bugs that bite or sting include bees and wasps, spiders, ants, bedbugs, mites, ticks and fleas. Bites may be painful, like a bee sting, or barely noticeable until the area develops an itchy red lump. They may show up as numerous tiny bumps or one larger bite.

Example of an Insect Bite on the Leg

The best way of handling bug bites is prevention: When outdoors use bug repellant and wear long sleeves, long pants, and sturdy shoes. At home only open windows or doors that can be covered with screens, and make sure pets have been treated with flea and tick medication.

Most bites or stings can be treated with first aid. Cool compresses or ice will relieve pain and itching, and pain medications or over-the-counter creams containing hydrocortisone can provide relief. It is important to be aware, however, that certain insect bites can be dangerous or spread disease. Some people are also allergic to insect venom, especially bee stings, and this can cause a medical emergency.

If you or someone with you has been bitten and you notice symptoms such as severe pain, swelling in the lips or face, rapid heartbeat, or trouble breathing, get to a doctor right away. In addition, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor if you experience symptoms such as a rash, aching joints, or fever in the days and weeks after a bug bite.

Psoriasis

This skin disease affects 2-3% of the population, causing patches of red, scaly, flaking skin that may itch. Sometimes the patch is raised and rough or bumpy. It can look silvery, and sometimes it can look like tiny red dots or blisters. These rashes can appear anywhere on the body, but are most often found on the elbows, knees, and scalp. Some patients also experience aching, swollen joints. In psoriasis, something triggers the immune system to overreact, and the top layer of skin begins to grow too fast. This causes the flakey, itchy patches.

An Example of Psoriasis on the Leg

Mild psoriasis can usually be treated with special creams or shampoos that reduce symptoms and relieve itching. In more severe cases, a dermatologist will prescribe stronger medications, including prescription creams, oral medications that are taken by mouth, or light therapy. There is no cure for psoriasis. It can be irritating and sometimes embarrassing, but it is not contagious and can usually be managed well. Seeing your doctor is important to stay healthy and reduce your symptoms.

Ask a dermatologist today

Folliculitis 

This commonly occurs when hair follicles become blocked or damaged, leading to infection and irritation that may become itchy or swollen and painful. It is common in the groin and pubic area, but may also occur in other places on the body, especially the face where shaving can introduce bacteria into the skin.

An example of Folliculitis

It may look like a rash of tiny red or white bumps; infections deeper in the skin may look like large, red, inflamed lumps that weep fluid. The sores can be slow to heal or might keep coming back. Folliculitis is usually an infection caused by bacteria, but it can also be caused by fungus (such as yeast), viruses, or ingrown hairs.

Folliculitis is caused by friction, shaving, or certain skin conditions that make you more susceptible to infection. It is not caused by poor hygiene. However, once you have developed folliculitis, keeping the area clean and dry can help speed healing. Hot compresses can relieve some of the pain and itching, and antibacterial creams can also help. If home remedies are not effective, a dermatologist can drain large incisions and prescribe medications to treat the infection and reduce inflammation.

Scabies

This an extremely itchy rash made up of many tiny, red sores or bumps, sometimes occurring in lines across the skin. The itching is intense and usually more noticeable at night. Scabies rashes can appear anywhere on the body, but are most common on the hands and arms or in areas closely covered by jewellery or clothing, such as the belt line.

An example of Scabies on the Arm

In some cases a rough, scaly patch can form over the rash. Scabies is caused by an infestation of skin mites, tiny bugs that are so small they are invisible to the naked eye. They burrow into the skin in trails, and proteins from their bodies or waste cause a significant, itchy reaction in the surrounding skin. It takes several days after becoming infected with mites for the rash to appear.

Scabies is extremely contagious, and anyone who is in close contact with an infected person can catch scabies. It can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, or by sharing items such as towels, clothes and bedding. People who live together in groups, such as those in nursing homes or dorms, are at higher risk of getting scabies.

Speak to a Dermatologist Immediately

If you think you have scabies, you should see a dermatologist right away. This is a common infection and not something you need to be embarrassed about. Doctors see scabies all the time and have medications that can treat it. The most widely used treatment is a cream that is applied over the entire body at night and washed off in the morning.

Everyone who has been in contact with the diagnosed person should also be treated. Towels, clothes, and bedding should all be washed in hot water and carpets should be vacuumed well. Even though the medicine works right away, it can take up to four weeks for the rash to completely go away and the skin to heal.

Actinic keratosis 

This one or more small patches of rough, grainy, or raised skin caused by damage from the sun. The spots start very small and can grow to an inch or more in diameter. They are usually red, but can also be pink or the same color as surrounding skin. Typically these spots are found on areas of skin that are exposed to the sun, such as the face, arms and hands, or a bald scalp. Older people are at higher risk of developing actinic keratosis simply because they have accumulated more hours of sun exposure during their life.

An example of Actinic Keratosis on the Hand

Actinic keratosis should always be seen by a dermatologist, because if it is left untreated the sores have the potential to turn into skin cancer. If it is caught early, the spots can be safely and easily removed before they become problematic. The damaged areas can be removed by freezing, cutting them away, laser therapy, light therapy, or strong medicated creams. Your dermatologist will examine the sores and decide which method is best for you.

Itchy Red Bumps – Get Checked!

These are just a few of the most common conditions that can cause your skin to become irritated, resulting in an itchy, red, or bumpy rash. Most of the conditions that cause itching and redness are not serious. But skin problems can be quite uncomfortable, and it can be difficult to figure out what has caused the rash just by looking at it. Seeing a dermatologist to get a proper diagnosis and treatment will make you much more comfortable, and in some cases it can stop you from getting very sick.

Ask a dermatologist today

Molluscum Contagiosum | Loma Linda University Health

What is molluscum contagiosum?

Molluscum contagiosum is a skin condition caused by a virus. It
causes small pink or skin-colored bumps on the skin. They may spread or form lines
when scratched. Almost any area of skin can be affected. Common sites include the
face, neck, armpit, arms, hands, and genitals.

The rash spreads easily from one part of the body to another. It
spreads through scratching or other contact. It can also spread from person to
person. This often happens through shared clothing, towels, or objects such as
shared sports gear. It can spread during contact sports or sexual contact.

The bumps often go away in about 2 to 12 months. In rare cases,
they last 3 to 5 years.

How to say it

muh-luh-skuhm cuhn-TAY-gee-oh-suhm

What causes molluscum contagiosum?

The condition is caused by a virus called a poxvirus. It is most common in children
and teens, but it can affect adults. The virus is most often spread through skin
contact with an infected person. It can be spread through:

• Skin contact during sports
• Sexual contact
• Contact with sponges or towels of people who have the virus

The virus can also spread on your own skin by scratching or shaving the area with
bumps.

Who is at risk for molluscum contagiosum? 

You are more at risk for molluscum contagiosum if you:

• Have been in direct contact with a person who has the condition
• Have a weakened immune system. This includes having HIV infection, cancer,
  diabetes, or taking medicines that suppress the immune system.

What are the symptoms of molluscum contagiosum?

Symptoms can appear 1 to 6 weeks after contact with the virus.
They can occur a bit differently in each person. They can include bumps on the skin
that are small and pink or skin-colored. The bumps may itch. They may be round like
a dome, and then develop a sunken center. The bumps can form alone or in groups or
clusters.

The symptoms of molluscum contagiosum can seem like other health
conditions. Make sure to see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis.

How is molluscum contagiosum diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and health
history. They will give you a physical exam. This will include a full skin exam to
be sure all affected areas are treated.    

In some cases, your provider may do a skin biopsy. They will
remove a small piece of skin to send to a lab.

How is molluscum contagiosum treated?

Treatment will depend on your symptoms, your age, and your general health. It will
also depend on how severe the condition is.

In most cases, the bumps will heal without treatment over 2 to 12 months. In rare
cases, they last 3 to 5 years.

You may have treatment such as:

• Removal of the bumps. Your
  healthcare provider may do this by freezing them (cryotherapy), or using a small
  blade, a curette, electric sparks, or lasers.
• Medicine on the skin. This may
  help the bumps clear up more quickly. Blistering medicines or medicine that
  helps stimulate the immune system may help.

Talk with your healthcare providers about the risks, benefits, and possible side
effects of all treatments.

What are possible complications of molluscum
contagiosum?

In some people, the bumps may lead to scarring of the skin.

What can I do to prevent molluscum contagiosum?

You can prevent this condition by not having contact with the skin
or bath towels of people who have the virus.

How to manage molluscum contagiosum

While you have the virus:

• You are contagious. Protect other people from direct contact
  with your affected skin areas.
• Don’t scratch or pick at the rash. Scratching spreads the infection. If needed,
  cover affected skin with bandages to help prevent scratching.
• Don’t shave the bumps. This can also spread the virus on your own skin.
• Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds before and after
  caring for the rash.
• Don’t share towels, washcloths, or clothing with anyone.
• Don’t scratch or pick at any areas that have bumps.
• Don’t have sex if the bumps are in the genital area.
• If you play contact sports or other activity that involves skin-to-skin contact,
  cover all affected skin with clothing or bandages.
• Don’t swim in public pools until the rash goes away.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Call the healthcare provider if you have:

• Bumps that appear on a new part of the body or seem to be
  spreading quickly
• Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your healthcare
  provider
• Signs of infection, such as warmth, pain, oozing, or redness

Key points about molluscum contagiosum

• Molluscum contagiosum is a skin condition caused by a virus.
  It causes small pink or skin-colored bumps on the skin. They may appear anywhere
  on the body except the palms and soles of the feet.
• These bumps often go away in about 2 to 12 months. In rare
  cases, they last 3 to 5 years. In some cases they lead to scarring of the
  skin.
• The virus is most often spread through skin contact with an
  infected person.
• You may have treatment such as removal of bumps with
  freezing or other methods.
• You can prevent this condition by not having contact with
  the skin or bath towels of people who have the virus.

Next steps

Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:

• Know the reason for your visit and what you want to happen.
• Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.
• Bring someone with you to help you ask questions and remember what your provider
  tells you.
• At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines,
  treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your provider gives
  you.
• Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed, and how it will help you.
  Also know what the side effects are.
• Ask if your condition can be treated in other ways.
• Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could
  mean.
• Know what to expect if you do not take the medicine or have the test or
  procedure.
• If you have a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for
  that visit.
• Know how you can contact your provider if you have questions.

Nodules on the skin – symptoms of what disease – Clinic “Doctor nearby”

Formations on the skin. What could it be?

Various types of formations often appear on human skin: pits, swelling. Including nodules, the variety of which is also rich. They are different in color, shape, and also in their involvement in the disease, due to which they appear on the human skin. How to determine which disease this or that nodule belongs to?

They come in different sizes. There is also a division of nodes into subcutaneous and those that grow directly on the human skin itself. So, consider the most common variations of formations.

The initial form of formation on human skin is called tubercles. They look dense. The color of the tubercles varies from flesh to red, sometimes even reaching black. The color depends on the person’s disease.

Since the tubercles are practically the initial stage of the formation of nodes, they practically do not bring discomfort. Basically, they are painless, but in some cases, in a serious form, they are painful, they cause pain on palpation.

Papules are usually of several types. There are subcutaneous and tubercles directly on the skin. Subcutaneous nodes may be painless, but often they cause pain and discomfort when pressed.

What kind of disease can these formations on the skin indicate?

There are a huge number of them, the range of diseases is wide. From common acne to the very rare Darier disease, as well as nodules can be evidence of the development of oncology, in other words, skin cancer.

In any case, a person should carefully listen to his body and monitor his skin carefully. With any formation on the skin, you should not pull, and go to the doctor in order to avoid deterioration in health.

Examples of various types of nodules and nodules

Subcutaneous

Whiteheads are also a type of nodules on the skin. Also, formations can be evidence of a disease such as basalioma or basal cell skin cancer .

Let us consider in more detail the diseases, evidence of which may be the symptom in question. Whiteheads. A fairly common pathology of the dermis. Acne or milia is a collection of sebaceous secretions under the skin. Often they do not cause discomfort to a person. Unless the matter concerns the aesthetic side of the issue.

Whiteheads can also indicate the presence of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. For the treatment of milia, a special diet is used, as well as the use of special medications.

In case of skin diseases, the tubercles can be not only white, but also red. This may be evidence of the manifestation of acne.

Acne begins with a small red bump, on top of which a white purulent head forms over time.

After a short period of time, the pus comes out, a crust forms on top. When the crust heals, a keloid forms at the site of the pimple.

There are also lipomas, hygromas, atheromas. Let’s consider each type in more detail.

Lipoma

Lipoma or wen, is a subcutaneous formation, soft to the touch, mobile. A wen can form only in that part of the body where there is adipose tissue.

Hygroma

Unlike a lipoma, a hygroma is a sedentary formation that looks like a tumor. The hygroma is filled with serous fluid. It is formed as a result of herbs received by a person during a fall or impact. The tumor is removed surgically.

Atheroma

Atheroma is partially similar to lipoma, it also forms in the sebaceous duct. Atheroma is a cyst formed as a result of blockage of the sebaceous duct. The size of the formation can be either the size of a pea or a chicken egg.

As mentioned above, nodes can be a manifestation of such an ailment as basal cell epithelioma. This is a type of skin cancer. If basal cell tumors appear on the skin, this indicates that the disease is moving from a mild form to a more severe one.

Although not in all cases, nodules on the skin indicate a serious illness, but in any case, a person should turn to people specially trained for this. If something worries you, let alone hurts, you need to contact the specialists without delay.

You can find such specialists at the Doctor Nearby clinic. All applicants will be given attention, a clear and correct diagnosis will be made. Naturally, the treatment will correspond to the highest level. You can sign up by phone without leaving your home.

Symptoms of breast cancer

In many patients, the first sign of a tumor is the appearance of a lump in the breast. However, the symptoms of breast cancer can vary widely, from lumps to some of the less obvious signs (such as skin changes). Finding symptoms of breast cancer does not necessarily mean the presence of a malignant tumor. However, in any case, these symptoms should be discussed with your doctor as soon as possible.

Early detection and treatment is essential for breast cancer. In the early stage of breast cancer, the chances of a cure may be highest. If breast cancer has already spread to other parts of the body (this stage is known as “advanced breast cancer”), earlier detection of the disease allows for earlier discussion, a personalized plan, and potentially better treatment outcomes. When diagnosing breast cancer, time is of the essence. It is important to learn to recognize the symptoms in order to take the necessary measures as soon as possible.

Changes in skin structure on or around the breast: wrinkling

This may indicate the presence of induration within the breast, resulting in shortening of the ligaments (fibrous tissue) and retraction of the tissues/skin inward, causing the skin to become wrinkled and uneven.

Changes in skin texture on or around the breast: depressions

The appearance of depressions in the skin may indicate blockage of the lymphatic vessels (these are small vessels in the mammary gland that help remove metabolic residues from the body). In such a situation, inflammation and swelling may occur in the mammary gland, and small depressions, like on an orange peel, may appear on large areas of the skin. In some cases, this may indicate the presence of an inflammatory form of breast cancer.

Breast tissue seal

This may indicate the presence of a “clump” of cells in the milk-producing lobules, and may also be another sign of blockage of the lymphatic vessels (these are small vessels in the breast that help remove waste products from the body).

Eczema-like rash or redness on or around the nipple

This is a very rare symptom of breast cancer. In a small number of cases, this may be associated with the presence of Paget’s tumor, a pathology associated with breast cancer. With Paget’s tumor, an eczema-like, itchy, red rash develops on or around the nipple, although the cause is still unknown.

Unusual nipple discharge (such as blood or pus) without pressure

This may indicate an accumulation of tumor cells in the milk ducts (small tubules through which breast milk exits) behind the nipple.

Changes in the nipple, such as retraction or change in position or shape

When the nipple is retracted (unless it is a congenital condition), when it cannot be turned back to its normal position, it can be assumed that there is a seal behind the nipple that pulls the tissues towards itself.

Visible veins in the breast

This may indicate a blockage in a blood vessel (which could be due to the presence of a lump) or an increased blood supply to the breast that accompanies tumor growth.

Swelling in the armpit

This may indicate the presence of a lump in the lymph nodes in the armpit (which help to remove residual products from the body). Sometimes a lump in the armpit is easier to notice than a lump in the breast.

Breast Self-Exam

It is very important to observe the following principles: get your breasts examined regularly, learn to recognize the symptoms of breast cancer, and if you find any abnormalities, see a doctor as soon as possible.