Concerns About Red Patches on Thighs
I’m a 27-year-old woman who discovered unsettling red spots on the backside of my thighs roughly a month ago. These patches are raised, displaying a reddish to pink hue, but they don’t cause any irritation or discomfort. It’s curious because they feel slightly bumpy beneath the skin, though visually, I can’t detect any distinct abnormalities. In my attempt to address the issue, I’ve tried various remedies including moisturizers, a steroid cream, and zinc oxide ointment. Despite my efforts, there hasn’t been any noticeable improvement; they appear to remain constant without deteriorating. Additionally, I have a small mole that features a darkened area within it. Should I be concerned about this? As I lack health insurance, I’m reaching out for advice. I’ve included images in the comments for reference.
Answers (1)
3/29/2025, 5:30:36 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you've been dealing with some concerning skin changes and potential mole changes. I'll address the red patches first and then talk about the mole.
Main Points:
- Raised red patches on the thighs might be related to conditions such as contact dermatitis or folliculitis.
- A darkened area in a mole can be a cause for concern and may need closer attention.
Explanation:
- Red Patches: Since the patches are raised, reddish-pink, and not causing discomfort, they could be due to several reasons, including:
- Contact Dermatitis: This occurs when your skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen and can cause red, raised spots.
- Folliculitis: This is an inflammation of hair follicles, which often results in red bumps.
- Less commonly, conditions such as psoriasis or eczema may cause similar symptoms.
Given the patches haven’t improved with moisturizers or topical treatments, it suggests that an underlying cause may not be resolved through these methods.
- Mole Changes: Regarding your mole with a darkened area, any change in a mole's color, size, or shape can be important. The "ABCDE" rule is helpful in assessing moles:
- A: Asymmetry
- B: Border irregularity
- C: Color that is not uniform
- D: Diameter larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
- E: Evolving or changing over time
Next Steps:
-
Monitor the Patches:
- Keep a close eye on the spots. Note any changes in size, color, or irritation. If they grow or become uncomfortable, it’s more urgent to seek help.
- Consider keeping the area moisturized and avoid any known irritants or harsh soaps.
-
Assess the Mole:
- If you notice changes in your mole (like darkening, irregular shape, etc.), it would be important to get a professional evaluation as soon as you can. If the area starts to itch, bleed, or look markedly different, that increases the need for attention.
-
Look for Community Resources:
- Since you mentioned lacking health insurance, consider looking for community health clinics or dermatology services that may offer sliding scale fees or assistance to those without insurance. Many areas have free clinics or services available.
While I understand the stress that comes with unexpected skin changes, proactive monitoring is essential. If anything worsens or you're troubled by your symptoms, please explore local resources to get evaluated. Feel free to reach out if you have further questions or need support!
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