Persistent Red Bump on Chest
Hello everyone! I'm a 44-year-old woman, standing at 6 feet tall and weighing around 230 pounds. About four years ago, I received a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis and tumid lupus. To manage my rheumatoid arthritis, I take Enbrel, and I also use Lyrica to cope with my fibromyalgia. Additionally, I’m on Lexapro and Abilify for my mental wellness, and I take vitamin D supplements weekly due to a deficiency. Now, I must admit, I have a tendency to worry excessively about my health, and lately, I’ve been concerned about a situation that I think might warrant attention. I've noticed a persistent red spot on my upper left chest that has been there for several months. It doesn’t appear to be worsening; rather, it stays the same—slightly raised without any pain or itching; it’s simply red. This evening, I took a close-up photograph with the light shining on it from various angles, and something about it caught my attention—it looked a bit unusual. I’m uncertain if this is just an age-related skin change or something tied to my lupus. Despite my usual caution regarding light sensitivity, I've been diligent in using plenty of sunscreen and wearing protective clothing when exposed to sunlight, along with using umbrellas, so I doubt it’s related to that. Please let me know if this looks concerning and if I should seek medical advice. Thank you very much for your help!
Answers (1)
3/23/2025, 8:10:40 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about a persistent red bump on your chest, especially with your medical history and the diagnoses you have. While some skin changes can be benign, a new or unusual persistent lesion warrants attention, especially given your conditions related to lupus.
Explanation:
The red bump you've described could be related to a number of factors, including benign skin changes, reactions to medications, or even manifestations of your underlying conditions like lupus. Lupus can affect the skin, leading to rashes or bumps, so it's wise to be cautious. Since you’ve mentioned that the spot has remained the same without any pain or itching, it suggests that it may not be actively inflamed, but it's important to monitor it for any changes.
Next Steps:
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Monitor the Bump: Keep an eye on the red spot for any changes in size, color, or sensation (like pain or itching). Documenting these changes can be helpful.
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Photograph the Spot: Continue to take clear photographs of the lesion in good lighting every couple of weeks. This can help you track any changes over time.
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Practice Gentle Skin Care: Continue using sunscreen and protective clothing as you have been. Avoid harsh skin treatments that might irritate the area.
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Consider Consulting a Dermatologist: Given your concerns, your next best step would be to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. Explain your medical history, the persistent nature of the bump, and your worries about it. They can perform a thorough examination and may recommend further testing if necessary.
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Manage Your Worries: It’s understandable to be anxious. Try to focus on what you can control while you await an expert's opinion. Engage in stress-reducing activities like mindfulness or light exercises that you enjoy.
Taking proactive steps will help you feel more in control of your health while waiting for professional evaluation. Your concerns are valid, and seeking a clear answer from a specialist is a prudent choice. Let me know if you need more information!
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