Rash on Inner Elbow Area
I am a 24-year-old female and approximately two weeks ago, I noticed a rash developing on the inside of my elbows. My medical history includes diagnoses of endometriosis and high blood pressure. In the past, particularly during my college years, I experienced similar rashes; at that time, I believed they were simply heat rashes, likely due to my active lifestyle. However, this occurrence felt unusual because I hadn’t engaged in much outdoor activity lately, nor had I experienced any friction around that area. Initially, the rash seemed to be fading away. However, following my surgery last Thursday, it intensified. I underwent an abdominal laparoscopy to address my endometriosis and had my fallopian tubes removed. Since the IV was placed in my hand, I thought I had avoided any contact with my inner elbows. Yet, by Friday, the rash reappeared with greater severity and hasn’t shown signs of improvement. I've attempted to treat the rash with hydrocortisone cream and an assortment of antifungal ointments, but nothing seems to alleviate it. My regular medications include Zyrtec and Losartan, and post-surgery, I was prescribed Oxycodone and Amoxicillin. Additionally, I’ve taken Simethicone, Ondansetron, and stool softeners as needed. Since my surgery, I’ve mostly been resting in bed, either sleeping, working on my crochet projects, or using my phone while being comfortably cooled by air conditioning in my home.
Answers (1)
6/17/2025, 2:10:36 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing an unusual and persistent rash on your inner elbows, especially following your recent surgery, which is understandably concerning. The fact that treatments like hydrocortisone and antifungal ointments haven't helped indicates that this may be something more than a simple rash.
Explanation
Rashes can have numerous causes, including allergies, irritants, infections, or conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. Given your surgical history and recent medications, there may also be factors like a potential allergic reaction to medications, changes in your immune response post-surgery, or a result of friction, even if it didn’t seem obvious.
Next Steps
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Keep Monitoring: Observe the rash for any changes in size, color, or pain. Take note of any additional symptoms like itching, weeping, or blistering, as well as any improvement or worsening over a few days.
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Discontinue Irritants: If you've recently changed any skincare products, detergents, or fabric materials that come into contact with your skin, consider stopping them to see if it improves the rash. Stick to gentle, hypoallergenic soap, and avoid perfumes or scented products.
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Re-evaluate Post-Surgery Medications: Since you are on several medications post-surgery, it may be worthwhile to consider if any of these might be reacting with your body in a way that contributes to the rash.
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Consider a Moisturizer: Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer regularly to keep the skin hydrated, which might help soothe the rash.
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Seek Further Evaluation: If there's no improvement in a few days or if the rash worsens, consider reaching out to a healthcare provider. They may recommend a more potent topical treatment, a different approach, or a skin evaluation to rule out allergic reactions or infections.
Your situation does warrant attention, especially after surgery and with these persistent symptoms. Taking these steps may help you find some relief while keeping an eye on your condition. Please feel free to update me on your progress or if any changes occur!
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