Often, red itchy spots on skin are caused by an allergic reaction either through direct contact on the skin or ingestion of an allergen. The red itchy spots tend to appear rapidly after contact and can usually be treated with a topic hydrocortisone cream and/or an antihistamine pill. However, red itchy spots on skin can be an indicator of other skin disorders, infections, and illnesses. If red itchy spots on skin become extremely bothersome or do not clear within a couple of days it is wise to contact your physician for a consultation and diagnosis.
Red Itchy Spot – Chicken Pox
Chicken pox is an infection caused by the varicella virus (http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/chickenpox/DS00053). While there is a vaccine for chicken pox people, especially children, still contract the virus with varying degrees of severity. Once a person is infected the virus is highly contagious and is transmitted easily through contact with infected individuals. Fortunately, the vaccine is safe and effective and those who have already caught the virus are immune from further infection. Symptoms of infection include the appearance of red itchy spots on skin on the face, neck, scalp, chest, and back. It is important not to scratch chicken pox spots, as in their second stage they become blisters that burst and form a crust. The third and final stage is the scabbing of the burst blisters, taking several days to heal. Other symptoms include fever, abdominal pain, headache, dry cough, and malaise. It can take up to 48 hours for spots to appear though the patient is contagious during this time and until the blisters crust over. It is very important to make an appointment with a doctor to appropriately diagnose chicken pox. While usually mild, sever cases include the formation of lesions in the throat, eyes, mucous membranes of the urethra, anus, and vagina, and sometimes disorientation, rapid heartbeat, tremors, vomiting, shortness of breath, and a fever higher than 103˚ F.
Red Itchy Spot – Chicken Pox Treatment
It is recommended that pregnant women who have never had chicken pox receive a vaccine against the virus as contraction of the virus during pregnancy can pose significant and sometimes life-threatening complications to the baby. In healthy individuals the virus is allowed to “run its course” without the use of drug treatment. For those who are at high risk of complications medications may be prescribed to shorten the duration of the infection. Common medications prescribed for children in these cases are acyclovir (Zovirax) or immune globulin intravenous (IGIV). It is important never to give aspirin to a child or adult with chicken pox as it can cause Reye’s syndrome.
