Persistent Red Spot on My Leg for Almost Two Years: Seeking Advice
For nearly two years, I've been dealing with a red patch on my left leg (21 years old, 6'4", 298 lbs) that resembles eczema. Initially, this spot was about the size of a soda can's base, but over the past year, it has significantly enlarged and started to spread. Thankfully, it hasn't increased in size recently; however, it remains present. Occasionally, the area becomes quite itchy, regardless of whether I apply products to it, but I resist the urge to scratch to avoid exacerbating the issue. In an attempt to address the situation, I am experimenting with a dairy-free diet to see if that makes a difference, but so far, I haven't observed any improvements. I might need to give it more time, which is why I'm sharing my experience. I've also applied various eczema relief creams like Exederm and CeraVe eczema creamy oil, but none have shown effectiveness. Moreover, I tend to drink a gallon of water daily—or as much as I can—but that also does not seem to help.
Answers (1)
6/22/2025, 3:20:35 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a persistent and bothersome skin issue that has been ongoing for quite some time. A red spot that resembles eczema and has spread could be due to various reasons, including a chronic skin condition, an allergic reaction, or even something more specific like an infection or autoimmune condition.
Explanation
The fact that this spot has enlarged and has been itchy indicates that it may not be a simple case of eczema, particularly since you haven't found relief from over-the-counter creams. Maintaining a dairy-free diet to assess possible food sensitivities is a good step, but remember that changes can take time to show results.
Your high water intake is beneficial for hydration, which can help your skin overall, but specific skin issues often require targeted approaches. It's important to consider other possibilities like psoriasis, contact dermatitis, or even an infection that may mimic eczema.
Next Steps
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Document any changes in the spot’s appearance, your diet, and any new products you try. This information could be helpful for future evaluations.
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Continue Avoiding Irritants: Ensure that any skincare products you use are fragrance-free and formulated for sensitive skin. Avoid harsh soaps and hot water when bathing.
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Over-the-counter Antihistamines: If itching is a significant issue, consider taking an over-the-counter antihistamine to help alleviate discomfort.
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Topical Treatments: While you’ve tried some creams, consider using a thicker emollient like Aquaphor or Vaseline at night to lock in moisture.
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Consider a Specialized Approach: If you don’t see improvement in the next month, it may be time to seek a consultation with a dermatologist. They can perform a more detailed examination and possibly recommend treatments such as prescription-strength topical steroids or other targeted therapies.
Please remember to be patient with dietary changes as it may take time to observe any potential effects. It's essential to prioritize comfort and monitor changes closely. Let me know if you have more questions or need further clarification on any of the points.
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