[33F] Intense Itching, Positive Strep Test, Now on Amoxicillin
Age 33, height 5’4”, weight 140 lbs, I do not smoke and drink only occasionally, maintaining an active lifestyle. Initially, I was prescribed doxycycline for a 14-day course to treat my Endometritis, with the hope of improving my fertility. However, just four days into the treatment, I began experiencing fever, body aches, and a sore throat, which led me to worry about a possible Covid infection. By day five, I noticed an itchy rash on my hands resembling the symptoms of hand-foot-and-mouth disease, alongside a severe itchiness on my scalp (it remains unclear if this is due to ringworm or seborrheic dermatitis). Additionally, I noticed itchy bumps on my buttocks. Given these symptoms, I visited urgent care on the sixth day, suspecting an allergy to the doxycycline. I also have toenail fungus affecting my big toe. At my appointment, the doctor did not believe I was having an allergic reaction since the rash appeared primarily on my hands. They proceeded to test me for strep and mono, and I received a positive strep diagnosis. As a result, I was instructed to discontinue doxycycline and begin a regimen of amoxicillin instead. Now, as I enter the early hours of day seven on antibiotics, I continue to battle constant itching on my hands, scalp, and buttocks, and my throat remains sore with visible lesions. With nine days remaining on this antibiotic, I am anxious about whether the itching is fungal and might worsen. Should I consider a return to my doctor, head to the ER, or simply wait? I am feeling utterly miserable and apprehensive about my situation.
Answers (1)
7/1/2025, 8:01:50 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're facing a complex situation with multiple symptoms, and it’s understandable that you’re feeling anxious and miserable. You have a confirmed strep infection and are now on amoxicillin, but the persistent itching and discomfort on your skin and scalp are understandably concerning.
Main Points:
- Ongoing Symptoms: It's important to monitor your symptoms, particularly the itching and throat discomfort.
- Possible Skin Issues: The itching may be related to a secondary skin condition or reaction that could require further evaluation.
- Next Steps: Prioritize managing your symptoms and consider seeking medical advice if they worsen or do not improve.
Explanation:
The itching you’re experiencing can be attributed to several potential causes, including:
- An allergic reaction to medication (though it seems your doctor did not suspect this).
- A skin condition, such as seborrheic dermatitis or a fungal infection, especially considering your history of toenail fungus.
- The strep throat itself can sometimes cause sores and irritation in the throat.
Given that you're on day seven of antibiotics and still experiencing significant discomfort, it’s essential to assess how your symptoms evolve. You're experiencing constant itching alongside symptoms from strep throat, which means your healthcare provider should evaluate this further.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms Closely: Keep track of your symptoms, especially any changes in the itching or the appearance of the rash. Note if you develop additional symptoms like fever, worsening throat pain, or new areas of rash.
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Symptom Relief: Consider using over-the-counter remedies for itching, such as:
- Antihistamines: These can help reduce itching. Options like cetirizine (Zyrtec) or loratadine (Claritin) may be helpful.
- Moisturizers or anti-itch creams: Applying a gentle moisturizer or hydrocortisone cream might provide temporary relief for the itching on your skin.
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Consider Re-evaluation: If your symptoms do not improve in the next day or two, or if they worsen, it would be wise to reach out to your doctor for further assessment. You may also seek urgent care if the itching becomes unbearable or you develop nausea, swelling, or any concerning reactions.
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Stay Hydrated and Rest: Continuing your recovery from strep throat is important. Aim to stay hydrated and rest as much as possible to support your immune system.
Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution with health concerns, so don’t hesitate to seek further medical advice if you're feeling uncertain or your symptoms change significantly. You’re not alone in this, and there are pathways to relief and resolution.
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