Persistent Itchy Bumps Causing Skin Issues
I’m a 21-year-old male, standing at 5'5" and weighing 130 pounds, and I’ve been grappling with itchy bumps across my body for around six months. These bumps first became noticeable shortly after I experienced an infection in a separate wound on my left leg back in January. Initially, the bumps appeared on various parts of my body including my legs, arms, hands, chest, and back, and they leaked yellow fluid whenever I scratched them, which turned out to be a poor decision. By March, I had visited a dermatologist twice, as my primary care physician was unable to provide a solution. During those visits, I was given several treatments: - Daily use of Aquaphor Healing Ointment - Application of Mometasone Furoate Cream - Daily intake of Cetirizine - A Cortisone injection in my left hip during my second appointment The only treatment that seemed to offer temporary relief was the Cortisone shot; however, the bumps and itching resurfaced just five days later. I continued to apply the other three prescriptions until my next follow-up appointment, which was about a month later. However, the cost of these visits was burdensome, totaling $260, and I eventually canceled the third appointment due to financial constraints, at which point I also stopped taking Cetirizine. My faith in the dermatologist's ability to help me was dwindling. As of July, almost all the itchy spots on my body have healed except for my right hand. What I’ve noticed is that the yellow scabs occasionally break open, releasing more yellow fluid that crusts over again, hindering proper healing. I find myself at a loss for what steps to take next. Back in March, my dermatologist was uncertain about the diagnosis and suggested I seek evaluation at a different facility, believing it was not an infection. Any advice or guidance from anyone facing similar issues would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Answers (1)
8/24/2025, 9:10:45 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a frustrating and uncomfortable skin condition that's affected your quality of life, and it's understandable to feel overwhelmed after seeking help without a clear solution. Here’s a concise summary of the main points and practical steps you can take next.
Summary of Key Points:
- Your symptoms include persistent itchy bumps, with yellow fluid and scabbing.
- Most areas have healed, but you still have issues with the right hand.
- Past treatments offered temporary relief, and financial constraints are a concern for ongoing care.
Explanation:
The itchy bumps and yellow fluid you describe could be due to several factors, such as an allergic reaction, eczema, or a skin condition caused by your previous infection. The leaking fluid and scabs suggest that there may still be some inflammation or irritation present, which is keeping the area from healing properly. Given that you're experiencing difficulties and have already sought professional help, let's focus on self-care and management strategies.
Next Steps:
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Maintain Cleanliness: Gently clean the affected area on your right hand with mild soap and lukewarm water to avoid further irritation. Pat dry with a clean towel rather than rubbing.
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Prevent Scratching: Try to avoid scratching the area as much as possible. Wear loose-fitting clothing, and consider using cotton gloves at night to prevent unintentional scratching while you sleep.
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Moisturize Regularly: Continue using a healing ointment, like Aquaphor, or switch to an unscented moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated, which can help reduce itchiness and promote healing. Apply it multiple times a day, especially after washing your hands.
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Over-the-Counter Options: You might consider reintroducing an antihistamine like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) for nighttime itching if the itching keeps you awake, but avoid long-term use. Calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream (over-the-counter) can also help reduce itching and inflammation in the interim.
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Monitor Changes: Keep a brief diary of any changes in your symptoms, including what activities or products seem to worsen or improve the condition. This can help you identify potential triggers.
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Explore Free or Low-Cost Clinics: Look for community health clinics or dermatology residency programs in your area that offer reduced-cost consultations or services. You deserve a thorough evaluation and an effective treatment plan, especially if your condition persists.
If your hand does not improve after these self-care measures over the next week, consider reaching out to a medical professional for further evaluation to ensure you receive the right diagnosis and treatment. Stay hopeful, and take it one step at a time. Please feel free to reach out if you need further guidance.
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