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What Causes An Unusual Rash On Lower Arm?

Posted on Thu, 25 Jun 2015

Question: I have not been feeling well since Wednesday night. Sore throat, achy, coughing. I've been taking only Tylenol. Today I noticed a rash on my lower arms. I don't know if it's anywhere else as I am at work. I have gotten this rash many times before when I've been sick and taken antibiotics and Advil. My doctor thought it was the Advil so I don't take Advil or aspirin products but apparently something is going on here. I was bitten by a tick which was removed maybe Monday or Tuesday. Any ideas what my problem could be?

Answered by Dr. Muhammad Ali Rauf (41 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
need some details to guide you better

Detailed Answer:
Hello

My name is Dr Muhammad Ali Rauf & i will look into your problem.

I have gone through your query and would try to help you in the best possible way. There could be a number of causes for your complaint. I would be in a better position to guide you if you answer following questions please:

1. did it start after taking some particular food or after going to bed?
2. are you allergic to some food?
3. did such problem occur in past?
4. do you have diabetes, hypertension or any other illness?
5. are you on any medication?
6. please share a clear close image of rash?
7. is anyone else in the family also having similar complaint?

I will be looking forward for the answers to conclude the discussion in the best interest of yours.
Thank You

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

Follow up: Dr. Muhammad Ali Rauf (7 minutes later)

1. No
2. No
3. Yes; I've noticed the rash on many occasions when I have been sick taking antibiotics, cough medicine and Advil
4. No
5. No - only taken Tylenol (2 every 6 hours since Wednesday night)
6. attached
7. no

Answered by Dr. Muhammad Ali Rauf (14 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Most probably allergic response

Detailed Answer:
Hello

Thank you for getting back with the answers. I have gone through them. Sorry but did not receive image so far. Your symptoms most probably have developed due to sore throat and allergy, probably due to insect bite. If i were your treating doctor then i would have advised following things:

- Take Diphenhydramine + Dextromethorphan for cough.
- I would start you on amoxicilin/clavulanic acid 625mg thrice a day for 7 days.
- Take acetaminophen for pain
- cetirizine one at night for 3 days.
- Montelukast one daily for one month. Research has shown that it decreases the allergic symptoms considerably.
- Take hot water in a cup, add 1 table spoon salt in it. Perform gargles (mouth wash) with it three times a day for at least 3 days. It will give soothing effect.

AVOID:
> Chilled water
> Drinks
> Spicy food

Hopefully you will see improvement in 3-4 days BUT if condition remains same or aggravates then you need to visit hospital for further workup.

Hope I have answered your query. If you have any further questions I will be happy to help if not then don't forget to close the discussion and rate it.
Wishing you good health !!

Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

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