Concerning Skin Changes on My Abdomen
I am a 22-year-old male, standing at 5'8" and weighing 160 pounds. I am Caucasian and currently taking Duloxetine. Recently, I've observed the development of dark, uneven patches moving up the right side of my abdomen. These areas are firm to the touch and are devoid of hair growth. The texture is smooth, but they alter the appearance of my skin. Over the course of the last year, these patches have progressively worsened. In addition, I have been experiencing ongoing abdominal discomfort. It’s worth noting that these skin changes first emerged while I was on Duloxetine. Should I consider scheduling a doctor’s appointment soon?
Answers (1)
7/3/2025, 12:40:53 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about changes in your skin, especially when accompanied by discomfort. The dark, uneven patches on your abdomen that are firm to the touch and devoid of hair growth could indicate several possible skin conditions, especially considering their progression and the fact that they coincided with your use of Duloxetine.
Explanation
The skin changes you're describing could be related to various factors, such as:
- Medication effects: Some medications can lead to skin reactions. Duloxetine is typically used for depression or anxiety and has side effects, but specific skin reactions are less common.
- Dermatological conditions: Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or other forms of dermatitis can cause similar skin changes and discomfort.
- Underlying conditions: Since you mentioned a history of chronic pain or gastrointestinal issues (potentially alluding to conditions like Crohn’s), there could be a systemic issue.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on changes in the size, color, or sensation of the patches over the next few days. Take note of any new symptoms like increased discomfort or fever.
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Gentle Skin Care: Avoid using heavy creams or irritants on the affected area. Use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer to prevent further irritation.
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Document Changes: Take photographs of the patches for your records. This can help your healthcare provider assess progress during a visit.
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Consider Timing for a Doctor’s Appointment: Given that these changes have been worsening over the year and are accompanied by discomfort, I would prioritize scheduling a doctor's appointment soon for a proper evaluation. This will help determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
In the meantime, try to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including proper hydration and stress management, as these can also influence skin health. If you experience significant worsening of symptoms, such as severe pain, bleeding, or fever, consider seeking medical attention sooner rather than later.
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