Red Rash in Armpits After Starting Atomoxetine
The rash under both of my armpits has a somewhat elongated shape and is noticeably red in color. Although I didn't manage to capture a decent photo of it, I'm concerned about how it looks. I began taking Atomoxetine last Friday, but I suspect this issue began even earlier than that, as I initially thought it would resolve on its own. For several weeks, I've had dry skin on my legs that has become quite rough and leathery due to constant scratching. I've already scheduled a doctor's appointment for Saturday, but I wanted to seek some reassurance here as well.
Answers (1)
3/17/2025, 2:50:40 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about a red rash, especially after starting a new medication like Atomoxetine. Skin reactions can vary, and while some may be mild and temporary, others could indicate an allergy or a more significant concern.
Explanation
The rash you described under your armpits could be related to several factors:
- Drug Reaction: Atomoxetine can cause skin reactions in some individuals. If the rash started after starting the medication, it could be related, although it sounds like it may have begun before that.
- Dry Skin and Irritation: The rough, leathery dry skin on your legs, worsened by scratching, might contribute to skin irritation or lead to secondary infections.
- Other Causes: Rashes can also stem from different causes like fungal infections, friction from clothing, or irritants.
Next Steps
Here are some prioritized actions you can take while waiting for your appointment:
- Avoid Scratching: Try to minimize scratching as it can worsen irritation and lead to infections.
- Keep the Area Clean and Dry: Use mild soap to gently clean the affected areas and pat them dry. Avoid harsh soaps or scrubs.
- Moisturize: Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to your skin, especially on the dry patches, to help soothe and protect the skin barrier.
- Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your rash, such as increased redness, swelling, or if it spreads to other areas.
- Document Your Findings: If possible, take clear photos of the rash for your doctor. This can help in evaluating the condition during your appointment.
It's good to hear you've already scheduled a doctor’s appointment for Saturday. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider about the timeline of your symptoms, any other medications you may be taking, and your history with skin issues. They will be able to provide a more tailored evaluation and advice.
In the meantime, take care and remember that you're addressing this situation responsibly by seeking help. If you experience severe itching, swelling, or other concerning symptoms before your appointment, consider seeking immediate care.
Related Questions
Rash on the Dorsal Side of My Hands
A 24-year-old male, standing 5'3" and weighing 125 pounds, is not currently taking any medications. While I do not smoke, I am often exposed to secondhand smoke from those around me, and I have recently spent time in an environment where a significant amount of unpleasant smoke is produced due to casting activities. For approximately three weeks, I have been experiencing a rash on the backs of both my hands. I initially became aware of it after working on my car's engine. The rash has led to dryness and itching, and I took a photo after my shower today, highlighting the redness that has become particularly noticeable. What are some effective treatments for this condition?
Understanding Foam in Urine: When is it a Concern?
Age 24, I've observed a notable increase in the amount of foam in my urine over the past couple of years, compared to what I remember from before. About a year ago, I mentioned this to my primary care physician, who seemed somewhat dismissive of my concerns. Nonetheless, they proceeded to conduct a urinalysis, which returned normal results, indicating no elevated protein levels. I frequently undergo blood tests, and both my eGFR and creatinine levels typically fall within the normal range, although I did experience some fluctuations linked to a bout of mononucleosis a couple of years back, where my eGFR dipped near 70; it currently remains above 100. I suspect that changes in my urological function, likely from aging, are contributing to a stronger urine stream now than in my youth. The foam generally settles down after a few minutes, although occasionally it lingers longer than expected. I make a concerted effort to stay hydrated, even though I don’t always succeed, so I wonder if mild dehydration could partially account for the foaming. This concern is particularly relevant as I'm resuming strength training and planning to increase my protein consumption. I want to ensure that my kidneys are not overtaxed due to any potential underlying issues. Additionally, I have a history of taking 5 grams of creatine daily, paired with plenty of water, which makes me cautious about this, too. Is there a point at which foaming in urine is considered excessive, or does a specific threshold exist that I should be aware of?
Understanding Symptoms of Salmonella: What to Do Next
My boyfriend, who is 26, experienced a fever that peaked at approximately 99.5°F yesterday morning. Thankfully, after resting and taking NyQuil, his fever subsided by this morning. However, he has been dealing with severe abdominal pain and persistent diarrhea since last evening, which has not shown much improvement. He has been making frequent trips to the restroom, nearly every hour throughout the night and again today. While I initially thought he might be improving since the fever has decreased, I became alarmed upon noticing bright red blood in his stool and on the toilet paper after he wipes. It has been around 40 hours since the fever began, and my concern has heightened now that blood has appeared. I’ve come across some online information suggesting these symptoms might be typical for salmonella infections, and I’m uncertain whether we should seek medical attention immediately or if it’s advisable to wait another day or two to see if his condition improves. I realize that consulting a doctor as soon as possible would be the best course of action. However, he currently lacks insurance, which makes him hesitant to get checked right away. Any guidance on this matter would be greatly appreciated, thank you.
Navigating Alcohol Challenges
My partner has recently developed issues with alcohol. Over the past year, he has been consuming significant amounts—roughly two bottles of distilled spirits each week, in addition to beer. A decade ago, he struggled with inhalants and even faced near-fatal consequences, but he had maintained sobriety until he turned to drinking. He believes he has plenty of time before the effects of alcohol will manifest. How long can he continue this way before it becomes a serious problem? He is a 53-year-old male, weighing 325 pounds, standing at 5 feet 11 inches, and he is currently on medication for hypertension. Although we plan to separate later this year, it’s clear that this situation will have an impact on our three children.
Questioning Cipro for C. diff Treatment
My mother, who is 53 years old, has developed C. difficile which seems to have occurred without any recent antibiotic use, suggesting a potential viral source for the infection. In the emergency room, she was prescribed Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) taken twice daily for a week, along with Metronidazole (Flagyl) at the same dosage and duration. However, I am puzzled by the inclusion of Cipro in her treatment regimen. Isn't there a possibility that this medication could aggravate the situation? I’ve come across information indicating that Cipro might potentially lead to C. diff infections rather than help treat them. Is this correct? Would it be advisable for her to consult her primary care physician to discuss alternative antibiotic options?