Concerning My Husband's Skin Issue
Hello, Ask Docs. My husband, who is in his early 40s, is reluctant to visit a doctor for a proper evaluation. Hence, I find myself seeking guidance here on Reddit once again. About a week ago, he started experiencing a rash on his foot. Initially, he thought it was ringworm, and began applying a treatment for athlete's foot, but that hasn’t yielded any results. He also attempted using hydrocortisone, yet there has been no improvement. He mentioned that while it was itchy at first, the itching has subsided. I would appreciate any suggestions. Thank you!
Answers (1)
4/2/2025, 2:40:34 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to be concerned about your husband’s skin issue, especially since it hasn’t improved with over-the-counter treatments. Skin rashes can have various causes, and identifying the right one is key to effective treatment. Here are some main points to consider:
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Possibility of Other Conditions: Since the rash has not responded to treatments for athlete's foot or hydrocortisone, it could be caused by other conditions such as contact dermatitis, eczema, or even a different type of fungal or bacterial infection.
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Current Symptoms: The fact that the itching has subsided is a positive sign, but it doesn’t necessarily indicate that the rash will resolve on its own.
Actionable Steps:
1. Observe Changes: Keep an eye on the rash. Take note of any changes in size, color, or texture, and monitor for any new symptoms such as blisters, pain, or swelling.
2. Avoid Irritants: Make sure he avoids any known irritants, such as harsh soaps, scented products, or tight-fitting shoes, as these could aggravate the rash.
3. Moisturize the Area: If the rash isn’t oozing or weeping, applying a fragrance-free moisturizer may help soothe the skin and prevent further irritation.
4. Antihistamine: If the rash becomes itchy again, an over-the-counter antihistamine, like cetirizine or loratadine, could help manage itching.
5. Document the Rash: Consider taking clear photos of the rash to compare changes over a few days. This documentation can be helpful if he eventually decides to see a doctor.
If the rash persists for more than two weeks without improvement, or if it worsens in any way (for example, developing more redness, swelling, or pain), it would be wise to encourage him to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment.
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further guidance!
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