Seeking Advice for My Boyfriend's Rash
Hello everyone, I’m reaching out in hopes that someone can assist my boyfriend, who is 24 years old, with an alarming rash he has developed. Initially, he noticed some small bumps in his armpit area, which rapidly progressed into a prominent, dark purple lesion. We reached out to the 111 service in the UK, where they promptly identified it as a fungal infection beneath his arm. He began treatment with Canesten, which appeared to improve the fungal aspect, but soon after, a rash emerged and began to spread extensively. We returned to a pharmacy for further assistance, and they recommended using ketoconazole for the rash. Since day 10, we have been traveling abroad, and this has complicated our ability to access pharmacies due to language differences. We’ve explored numerous remedies as the rash continues to evolve. We stopped using sunscreen and ceased both treatments to determine if they contributed to the worsening condition (we halted all treatments as of day 12). Additionally, we’ve been administering antihistamines whenever possible. Nevertheless, he is experiencing intense itching, which is incredibly distressing for both of us during what should be an enjoyable vacation. He has also begun to develop mild hives behind his knees. Surprisingly, the fungal infection seems to have improved, but the rash is now more severe than ever. I would be extremely grateful for any insights or treatment options that could offer relief as soon as possible. Thank you for your help!
Answers (1)
6/19/2025, 9:01:24 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like your boyfriend is dealing with a distressing and evolving skin condition, which is understandably concerning. Given the symptoms you've described—an intense itch, a worsening rash, and hives—it's important to focus on immediate relief while addressing the potential underlying causes.
Main Points:
- The rash's worsening over the past few days warrants careful observation.
- Avoiding irritants and non-essential products may help alleviate symptoms.
- There are specific steps you can take to provide relief and manage the situation while traveling.
Explanation:
The rash could be a reaction to multiple factors, including the previous fungal treatment, environmental changes, or even allergens. The development of hives suggests an allergic response, which could be connected to new exposures or the treatments he's been using. Since he has also experienced improvement in the fungal infection, it's crucial to distinguish whether the rash is a side effect of treatment or an independent issue.
Next Steps:
-
Reintroduce Basic Care:
- Gentle Cleansing: Use a mild, fragrance-free soap to clean the affected area to avoid further irritation.
- Keep the Area Dry: Moist environments can worsen rashes. After washing, ensure that the skin is gently dried, especially in folds like the armpit.
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Address the Itching:
- Consider applying a cool, damp cloth to the affected area to relieve itching temporarily.
- Use over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream (if available) to reduce inflammation and itching. Limit its use to a small area and for a short time (up to 7 days) to avoid thinning skin.
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Manage Allergic Reactions:
- Continue administering antihistamines according to the label instructions to help with itching and hives, as these can provide relief from allergic reactions.
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Avoid Potential Irritants:
- Steer clear of any new products, including lotions or fragrances, and avoid scratching the rash, even though it may be tempting.
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep track of any changes in the rash, including improvement or worsening, along with other symptoms like fever or swelling. This will help guide future treatment decisions.
If the rash and itching persist or worsen, or if he develops fever or other concerning symptoms, it's important to seek medical help as soon as feasible. In unfamiliar places, consider looking for urgent care clinics or pharmacies with English-speaking staff who can assist further.
I hope these steps help bring your boyfriend some relief, allowing you both to enjoy the rest of your vacation! Let me know if you need more specific advice or further details.
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