Red Marks on Calf: Seeking Second Opinion
I am a 32-year-old male, standing at 5 feet 11 inches tall. My medication regimen includes lansoprazole at a dosage of 15 mg and atorvastatin at 20 mg. Last June, I first observed some red marks on my calf. I consulted with my general practitioner, who attributed them to a mild rash or skin mark. I was advised to use hydrocortisone ointment, but unfortunately, it did not provide any relief. After trying the ointment and experiencing no improvement, I returned to the clinic and was assured that it posed no cause for concern. Recently, however, I have detected a alteration: a smaller red mark emerging in the center, nestled between the larger ones. Occasionally, it becomes itchy, but there are no additional symptoms accompanying it. While I believe it may not be a serious issue, I would appreciate a second opinion as it perplexes me that these marks have failed to heal over time.
Answers (1)
2/9/2026, 12:01:07 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about persistent skin changes, especially when red marks on your calf haven't improved with treatment. While your doctor's assessment suggests a minor issue, the recent development of a new mark and the itching can indicate that it’s worth investigating further.
Explanation:
Red marks on the skin can emerge for various reasons, including allergies, irritations, infections, or even vascular issues. Since you've mentioned the initial red marks were attributed to a mild rash and haven't changed significantly despite the use of hydrocortisone, it may be beneficial to explore alternative causes. The emergence of a new mark, especially when coupled with itching, suggests that this could be more than just a static rash.
Prioritized Next Steps:
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Monitor Changes: Keep an eye on the red marks for any changes, such as increased size, color alterations, or if the itching worsens. Document when these changes occur and any other relevant symptoms, as this can provide useful information for further evaluation.
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Avoid Irritants: For now, try to avoid any potential skin irritants—this includes vigorous scrubbing, harsh soaps, and fragrances that may aggravate the area. Stick to gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers.
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Try Cold Compresses: If the itching becomes bothersome, applying a clean, damp, cold compress to the affected area can provide relief.
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Seek a Dermatological Consultation: Given that there has been no significant improvement and a new mark is developing, consider scheduling an appointment with a dermatologist. They can provide a more specialized examination and may recommend appropriate tests or treatments tailored to your specific skin condition.
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Ask About Alternative Treatments: In your consultation, inquire about other treatments or diagnostic tests, such as a skin biopsy, if needed, to better understand the nature of the red marks.
Addressing your concerns is important, and seeking a second opinion is entirely reasonable when symptoms persist without improvement. Please keep track of your observations, and I hope you find relief soon!
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