Chronic Rash on Chest After Respiratory Infection for 15 Years
For the past fifteen years, I've been dealing with a recurring rash on my chest that traces back to when I was 15. My ordeal began with pleurisy and subsequent breathing difficulties. Around that same time, I experienced a severe chest infection, which caused an intense rash right where I felt pain. At the time, I also suffered from a notably persistent cough. The rash that formed left slight scars just to the right of my sternum. Since that initial incident, I find that the rash reappears every few months over the existing scars. There are times when it becomes crusty or scabbed, and occasionally, it discharges a substance that resembles pus. Interestingly, this rash typically doesn't occur alongside any cough or respiratory symptoms. I’m left wondering if this is simply a case of perpetually sensitive skin, or if there might be a deeper respiratory issue that I need to be concerned about. Any insights would be appreciated!
Answers (1)
8/28/2025, 1:35:43 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’ve been facing a challenging situation with your chronic rash, especially given its long duration and relation to your past respiratory infection. While your rash seems to be localized and recurrent, there are a few important points to address regarding its nature and potential underlying issues.
Understanding Your Rash
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Possible Causes: The recurring rash over the same area, especially with the formation of scabbing and pus-like discharge, could suggest a form of dermatitis or a skin infection, such as folliculitis or an inflammatory reaction. Given its history, it could also imply that the skin remains sensitive due to previous damage associated with your initial infection.
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Scarring: The slight scars may indicate that there has been significant skin trauma in that area. This can make the skin more reactive or predisposed to rashes, especially if there have been repeated irritations over the years.
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Not Respiratory-Related: Since the rash does not coincide with any respiratory symptoms like coughs or difficulties in breathing, it's unlikely that there is a direct link to a deeper respiratory issue. However, it’s essential to ensure that the skin condition is not being aggravated by external factors such as allergens or irritants in your environment.
Next Steps
Here are some prioritized actions you can take to manage your condition:
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Hygiene & Care: Keep the affected area clean and dry. Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers to prevent further irritation. Avoid picking or scratching at the rash.
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Moisturization: Apply a gentle, hypoallergenic moisturizer to the scarred area daily. This can help minimize dryness and irritation, which might trigger flare-ups.
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Topical Treatment: Consider using an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to help reduce inflammation during flare-ups. It’s generally effective for localized rashes, but avoid using it continuously over long periods.
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Observe Triggers: Keep track of any potential triggers that may precede the rash, such as stress, environmental allergens, or changes in products like soaps or laundry detergents. A symptom diary can be very helpful in identifying patterns.
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Consultation for Chronic Issues: Given the long history and recurrence of your rash, consider seeking a consultation with a dermatologist. They can perform further evaluations, possibly including a skin biopsy or allergy testing, to determine the precise cause and recommend targeted therapies.
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Aim for Comfort: Focus on avoiding irritants in your clothing and personal care products. Wearing loose, breathable fabrics can also help prevent chafing and irritation on the chest area.
By prioritizing careful skin hygiene, recognizing potential triggers, and seeking specialized help when necessary, you can work towards managing your rash more effectively. Remember, it’s important to be patient and attentive to changes in your condition. If you have any other questions or need further information, feel free to reach out!
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