Persistent Rash Issue
A 30-year-old male, weighing 170 pounds and generally in good health, is experiencing an ongoing skin problem. Over a month ago, he developed an intensely itchy rash located around his anal area and between his scrotum and anus, accompanied by an external hemorrhoid. Despite using ointments like Preparation H and Anusol, he found little relief—only marginally alleviating the itchiness during the night. Approximately 10 days ago, he consulted his physician, who prescribed Taro-Clobetasol. Following a week of treatment, he took a break from any topical application for a couple of days, only to find that the rash had worsened, although it was less itchy than before. A photo illustrating the issue is available in the comments for reference. He is planning a follow-up visit with his doctor, feeling increasingly anxious about the situation. Any suggestions or insights? Additional note: Two months prior, he had been bitten by a tick on his outer thigh and underwent a 10-day course of antibiotics as a precaution. Concerned about a potential connection, his doctor ordered a Lyme disease test alongside routine blood work, which returned negative results.
Answers (1)
7/14/2025, 8:51:28 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are dealing with a frustrating and uncomfortable skin issue that hasn't responded well to treatment, which is understandably causing you anxiety. Persistent rashes in sensitive areas can often be challenging to treat, but there are steps you can take to manage this situation.
Understanding Your Symptoms: The rash around your anal area and between your scrotum and anus could be caused by several factors, such as contact dermatitis, fungal infections, or even a worsening of the hemorrhoid. The external hemorrhoid may also contribute to irritation in that sensitive area. Your use of topical ointments like Taro-Clobetasol indicates a strong corticosteroid treatment, which is generally effective for inflammatory skin conditions, but they may take time to show results, especially if there’s ongoing irritation.
Prioritized Next Steps:
-
Continue with the Clobetasol Treatment:
- Make sure to apply the Taro-Clobetasol as prescribed. Usually, these medications should be applied sparingly and only for a limited duration to avoid skin thinning, but since you’ve had minor improvement, it’s worth continuing for the moment while scheduling your next follow-up.
-
Keep the Area Clean and Dry:
- Maintain hygiene in the area by gently cleaning with mild soap and water. Pat the area dry instead of rubbing it. Moist environments can worsen skin issues, so consider using a non-irritating powder to keep the area dry if moisture is a recurring problem.
-
Avoid Irritants:
- Steer clear of fragrances, scented wipes, or harsh soaps that may further irritate the affected area. Wearing breathable cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothing can also help reduce irritation.
-
Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep a diary of any changes in your rash, including any new symptoms, what products you are using, and any potential irritants or conditions that might cause flare-ups. This information will be invaluable during your follow-up visit.
-
Consider Moisture Barrier Creams:
- If itching resumes or if the area feels too raw, a barrier cream can provide protection and help with moisture retention without additional irritation.
-
Follow-Up with Your Doctor:
- During your follow-up appointment, discuss how the treatments have worked, including any swelling, pain, or changes in the rash’s appearance. Ask if a fungal infection or another underlying condition could be contributing to your symptoms.
Remember that skin conditions can sometimes take time to resolve, and communication with your healthcare provider is key to finding the right treatment. You’re doing the right thing by seeking medical advice and following up, so try to stay calm and focused on the steps you can take in the meantime. Let me know if you have further questions or need additional support!
Related Questions
Is This Endocarditis?
Hello everyone, I'm a 29-year-old male, standing at 170 cm and weighing just 105 lbs (thank you to the hospital for my lack of meals, resulting in some weight loss). Last August, I underwent a wisdom tooth extraction and was prescribed antibiotics. The recovery was prolonged because I dealt with dry sockets that were neglected for nearly a week due to my dentist undervaluing my discomfort. Fast forward to September, I began experiencing intense chest pain. After a visit to the emergency room, I was told that both the EKG and routine blood tests returned normal results. Chest X-rays were clear as well. Ultimately, I was diagnosed with GERD and sent home with Teva Sucralfate; my symptoms subsided for a few months but later resurfaced. At the end of May, I had a routine colonoscopy (related to IBS), and everything came back clear. Shortly after, I experienced severe headaches and dizziness that persisted for over a month. My general practitioner referred me to an ophthalmologist, who identified a Roth spot and immediately advised me to go to the emergency room. They performed various tests, including blood cultures (four vials), additional blood tests, an EKG, a chest X-ray, and a CT scan. All results appeared normal. I received IV antibiotics for a day, but once blood cultures came back negative, treatment was halted. After two days, I was discharged; however, I now find myself on an extensive waiting list for a crucial echocardiogram. This situation is quite distressing. While my symptoms have improved somewhat—less severe headaches before my admission and occasional chest pain that isn't persistent—I'm still anxious and left without a clear diagnosis. The presence of the Roth spot is particularly concerning for me. Any insights would be greatly appreciated!
Seeking Guidance on Neomycin Overuse
As an 18-year-old male weighing 240 pounds, I recently encountered a concerning situation while treating an ear infection with neomycin. I accidentally dispensed more medication than the prescribed amount due to applying too much pressure on the bottle. Since then, I’ve been lying on my side in hopes of easing the excess fluid out, but nothing seems to be happening. My anxiety is escalating after reading warnings about the dangers of not flushing it out properly, including potential long-term hearing loss—something I certainly want to avoid. I feel a sensation of fluid in my ear, leaving me uncertain whether this is a sign of imminent hearing damage or merely muffling caused by the excess medication. I administered the neomycin around 4 PM, and it's currently 8 PM as I write this. Could anyone provide advice on how serious this issue is?
Large Itchy Spot on My Back
I'm a 22-year-old male with a standard weight and no known allergies. Just yesterday, I ventured into the forest for a hike. Since that day, I've been experiencing some irritation on my back. Initially, I dismissed it as a mosquito bite or some sort of minor skin irritation. However, upon looking in the mirror today, roughly 24 hours post-hike, I noticed a noticeable swelling that resembles a bite or sting. I suspect it may have been a spider or some other insect that got to me. What remedies can I consider to alleviate this? The appearance and the nature of the itch lead me to believe it's not a ringworm.
Irritated Red Spot Beneath My Eye
I've recently noticed a painful red blemish located just under my eye, which has become quite sensitive when touched. Over the course of the last couple of weeks, it has gradually increased in size, and I am at a loss as to what it could be or what might have led to its appearance. Does anyone have any suggestions or insights? I'm a 38-year-old male, standing at 6'1" and weighing 160 pounds. Thanks for your help!
Seeking Guidance on Persistent Symptoms: Numbness, Rash, and Exhaustion
**Medical Background:** - I have a history of alcohol use disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and I am currently classified as overweight (5'2", 187 lbs). - My current medications include Naltrexone (25-50 mg daily, following the Sinclair Method), as well as magnesium, turmeric, biotin gummies, L-theanine, and I occasionally use Benadryl and ibuprofen as needed. - I have a history of daily alcohol consumption but have abstained since last Friday, alongside regular marijuana use. **Present Symptoms:** Last Friday night, I experienced sudden neurological changes affecting the left side of my body, characterized by numbness, stiffness, and weakness extending from my face to my arm. The sensations were not painful, but instead felt tight, uncomfortable, and slightly tingly—distinct from the typical “pins and needles.” This incident was accompanied by the following symptoms: - Shortness of breath - Profound fatigue - Irregular heart palpitations Initially, I was concerned I might be having a stroke, which triggered a panic attack. Since that incident, I’ve noticed these symptoms recurring daily, typically occurring soon after I wake up, continuing for the past four days. **Additional Symptoms:** - Occasional tingling sensations in both feet - Leg pain, particularly in my shins (these issues began prior to Friday’s episode) - Lingering fatigue and cognitive cloudiness - Fluctuating anxiety levels and a quickened heart rate **Rash:** About two weeks ago, I noticed a rash on my upper right arm that does not itch. Initially resembling ringworm, it also has characteristics akin to a bull's-eye rash linked to Lyme disease. I started using over-the-counter Lotrimin last week and observed slight improvement. I reside in the Upper Midwest and have spent a lot of time outdoors this summer. **Concerns:** - The combination of the rash and neurological symptoms raises my fears of Lyme disease or other tick-borne infections. - I'm also anxious that these symptoms could indicate alcohol-related neuropathy, pre-diabetes, or potential organ distress or damage (such as to my liver or pancreas). - I'm reluctant to commence the 7-day doxycycline course prescribed until I have ruled out any serious liver issues. **Recent Medical Attention:** - I sought urgent care for blood tests to check for Lyme disease, but they were unable to perform the necessary lab tests and provided doxycycline as a precaution. - I contacted my general practitioner, who instructed me to visit the emergency department to rule out a stroke before scheduling an appointment with them. - During the episodes, I measured my blood pressure and oxygen levels at home, both of which were normal. - I have temporarily ceased all medications and supplements, including naltrexone, and have avoided alcohol since the symptoms began. - I feel that my concerns were not taken seriously by the urgent care team, and I am finding it difficult to secure appropriate follow-up care. Finally, I am mindful of my anxiety and understand it may influence how my health concerns are interpreted. I genuinely seek your advice: Am I overreacting, or do these symptoms merit further scrutiny? I really don’t wish to waste anyone’s time, yet I also do not want to overlook a potentially serious health issue.