Chronic Skin Lesions on Abdomen Persisting for Three Months
I am a 32-year-old male, measuring 175 cm and weighing 78 kg. I don't smoke and am not currently on any medication, nor do I have any long-term health conditions. For the past three months, I've been dealing with a persistent rash on my abdomen. After extensive online research, I still haven't identified its cause. I have noticed approximately 20 smooth, red lesions of varying sizes located on my lower abdomen and near the pubic region. Although these spots aren’t itchy or painful, they appear somewhat darker than the surrounding skin and have a dry texture. The spots seem to be predominantly situated around my belly button, the waistband area, and the pubic region, which leads me to suspect that they could be related to heat or friction. The highest spot is located on my sternum. I haven’t introduced any new medications or skincare products, so I'm perplexed by this issue. I do have a dermatologist appointment scheduled, but that won't occur for another month. Does anyone have any insights or suggestions in the meantime?
Answers (1)
7/21/2025, 8:10:46 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about persistent skin lesions, especially when they have been present for several months. Based on your description of the smooth, red lesions on your abdomen without itching or pain, there are a few possible explanations, including irritation from friction or heat, which can occur in areas prone to rubbing or sweating.
While it's good that you have a dermatologist appointment scheduled, there are some immediate steps you can take to manage your skin health and alleviate concerns while you wait for your consultation.
Key Points:
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Potential Causes: Lesions like yours could stem from heat rash, folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles), or even contact dermatitis. Your observations regarding their location suggest they may indeed be related to friction or heat.
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Skin Care Approach: You can maintain skin hygiene and potentially reduce any irritation during this waiting period.
Next Steps:
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Keep the Area Clean and Dry:
- Gently wash the affected area with a mild soap and avoid scrubbing, which can irritate the skin further.
- Pat the skin dry with a clean towel.
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Avoid Irritants:
- Wear loose-fitting clothing that minimizes friction against the lesions.
- Consider breathable fabrics to reduce sweating.
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Moisturize:
- Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer on the lesions to keep the skin hydrated but avoid heavy creams that could clog pores.
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Monitor Changes:
- Keep a close eye on the lesions. Take note if they change in size, color, or if any new symptoms, like itching or pain, emerge.
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Document Your Symptoms:
- Keep a record of your observations, including any potential triggers, such as changes in temperature or activities that might cause friction. Bring this information to your dermatologist appointment, as it may help in diagnosing the condition.
Remember, while it can be anxiety-provoking to wait for a diagnosis, many skin conditions can be effectively managed once properly identified. If you experience any worsening symptoms like swelling, pain, or signs of infection (redness, warmth), you may want to seek earlier medical attention.
Please keep me updated on your situation or if you have further questions!
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