Persistent Rash Dilemma: Seeking Clarity
I’m a 25-year-old woman, standing at 5'9" and weighing 70 kg. Currently, I am on a regimen that includes 50 mg of quetiapine daily and 225 mg of venlafaxine, which I genuinely dislike. Over the past three years, I have been struggling with a recurring rash that keeps cropping up in the same spot. If anyone has any insight into what this could possibly be, I would greatly appreciate your input, though I plan to consult with a general practitioner, which is obviously the first step. The rash tends to heal over the course of a few weeks only to reappear a few months later. Right now, it’s particularly bothersome because of the intense itching. It burns and itches quite a bit, making it very uncomfortable to deal with. Any help would be immensely valuable!
Answers (1)
7/14/2025, 12:40:50 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re dealing with a persistent and uncomfortable rash that tends to return in the same spot, accompanied by itching and burning. Since you've already identified that you plan to consult a general practitioner, that's an excellent first step toward finding relief and understanding what might be causing your rash.
Understanding Your Rash: Recurring rashes can have several possible causes, including allergic reactions, infections, inflammatory skin conditions (like eczema or psoriasis), or even sensitivities related to medications. Given that you dislike your current medications (quetiapine and venlafaxine), it's worth noting that some drugs can cause skin reactions, though this typically occurs shortly after starting them.
Immediate Steps to Consider:
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Avoid Irritants: Keep the affected area clean and avoid known irritants, such as harsh soaps or fragrances. Opt for unscented options instead.
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Moisturize Regularly: Use a gentle, hypoallergenic moisturizer to help soothe the skin and reduce itching. Look for products designed for sensitive skin.
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Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress to the area for 15-20 minutes several times a day to help alleviate itching and burning.
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Over-the-Counter Relief: Consider using over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream or antihistamines (like loratadine) for temporary relief from itching and inflammation. However, don’t use topical steroids for extended periods without consulting your doctor.
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Track Your Symptoms: Maintain a diary documenting when the rash appears, how long it lasts, and any potential triggers (foods, products, activities) that may coincide with flare-ups. This may provide useful information for your doctor.
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Monitor Severity: Note any changes in the rash's appearance or if you develop more symptoms (like fever or spreading), which can indicate a need for immediate medical attention.
These steps should help manage your symptoms until you can see a healthcare professional. Keep in mind that making lifestyle changes, such as identifying and eliminating potential triggers, can be an important part of managing skin conditions. Your GP can conduct a thorough assessment and may suggest treatments based on the diagnosis.
Feel free to share more about your experience or ask further questions as needed, and I’m here to support you!
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