Suggest Treatment For Raised Rashes On The Torso

Posted on Wed, 3 Aug 2016

Question: Several days ago, while travelling on vacation, I noticed several raised rashes on my torso (front and back). Not thinking of Shingles, I thought possibly heat rash, bug bites, etc. These were not painful at the time (not even itchy) and have not gone away in 6 days. We are in Myrtle Beach and the weather has been hot & humid (Heat Index 100 to 105). 2 days ago, I felt tired and yesterday even more so, as if I had a fever but didn't. One in our party is an MD and noticed the rash and suggested it was possibly shingles. I'll visit my Primary Care Physician for my annual physical in the next month or so but want to get this looked at.

Any suggestions about how to self-diagnose?
Thanks,
CXXX

Answered by Dr. Charu Bansal (43 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
shingles is most likely possibility

Detailed Answer:
Hello. Welcome to Healthcaremagic.com. I have read your query. I understand your concern.
I have seen the attached photograph also.
As per details and from the image, it looks like Shingles to me also.
Shingles ia characterised by fluid filled lesions on red base in group over a dermatome.
Usually the vesicles start subsiding within 5-7days but in old age or low immunity, it may persist for longer duration too.
In such cases, I prefer to advise oral antivirals like Acyclovir / Valacyclovir with anti inflammatory drugs like diclofenac.
Oral antibiotics are also given to prevent secondary bacterial infection.
Keep the area clean and dry. Afterwards topical antibiotic cream like mupirocin is applied.
I would advise you to visit your doctor for clinical examination and prescription.
I hope it helps.
Take care

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar