HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

What Causes An Itchy Rash On The Neck?

default
Posted on Mon, 2 Jan 2017
Question: I have a burning rash on my neck and throat that also itches badly just appeared yesterday
doctor
Answered by Dr. Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh (34 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Information

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Without being able to see your rash I can't say specifically what is going on, but I can offer some possibilities.

If it is only on your neck as you described, it may be a contact dermatitis. This is inflammation, irritation, itching of the skin in response to something that directly contacted it. Are you wearing a new scarf? Used a new detergent or dryer sheets? Had on a turtleneck top? Had your hair done and it's been in contact with your neck?

Another possibility is that it is a systemic (in your body) allergic reaction that just came out on your neck only.

Treatment is an oral antihistamine such as Benadryl (diphenhydramine) or Zyrtec (cetirizine). I don't think the topical Benadryl spray will help that much compared with taking oral Benadryl.

For diphenydramine (Benadryl) take 50 mg every 6 hours.
If using cetirizine, take 10 mg twice a day.

But if the rash is getting worse, you may need to go in to the doctor or urgent care clinic where they may prescribe you a short course of oral corticosteroids such as prednisone.

I hope this information helps. Please let me know if I can help further.
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1991

Answered : 3133 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
What Causes An Itchy Rash On The Neck?

Brief Answer: Information Detailed Answer: Hello, Without being able to see your rash I can't say specifically what is going on, but I can offer some possibilities. If it is only on your neck as you described, it may be a contact dermatitis. This is inflammation, irritation, itching of the skin in response to something that directly contacted it. Are you wearing a new scarf? Used a new detergent or dryer sheets? Had on a turtleneck top? Had your hair done and it's been in contact with your neck? Another possibility is that it is a systemic (in your body) allergic reaction that just came out on your neck only. Treatment is an oral antihistamine such as Benadryl (diphenhydramine) or Zyrtec (cetirizine). I don't think the topical Benadryl spray will help that much compared with taking oral Benadryl. For diphenydramine (Benadryl) take 50 mg every 6 hours. If using cetirizine, take 10 mg twice a day. But if the rash is getting worse, you may need to go in to the doctor or urgent care clinic where they may prescribe you a short course of oral corticosteroids such as prednisone. I hope this information helps. Please let me know if I can help further.