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What Causes Itchy Rashes On The Skin While On Betaderm?
Question: Hi, I have 3-4ish rashes, the 4th seems to be forming.. it looks like they are surrounding an infection I had a week ago. My last Keflex antibiotic pill(taken for 10 days, 4x day) was 8 days ago. The rashes are pink colored, raised, looks flat but looking closer the tops are bumpy. They're very itchy when even grazed, but the itchiness is gone after few seconds. When pressed they change color from pink to whitish. I was prescribed Betaderm for them. My worry is that betaderm can make skin infection worst if I'm not completely cleared? Attached is pic of the old infection site, and the rashes and their location relative to it. Thanks.
Brief Answer:
Antibiotic ointment to add as following
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I have gone through your medical history carefully and the photos you sent in.
After a careful observation, I can admit the new rashes are still related to the primary skin infection you've been treating so far.
I advise to get back to your doctor or dermatologist and ask for another round of another new antibiotic.
Meanwhile, locally I advise to:
- wash with warm water and soap (preferably antibacterial soap)
- rinse well, dry well
- then apply betaine solution, let dry
- then apply fusidic acid cream together with betaderm already prescribed by your doctor.
Betaderm is a corticosteroid medication used to treat local inflammation.
Wish fast recovery.
Let me know if you have any other concern.
Dr.Albana
Antibiotic ointment to add as following
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I have gone through your medical history carefully and the photos you sent in.
After a careful observation, I can admit the new rashes are still related to the primary skin infection you've been treating so far.
I advise to get back to your doctor or dermatologist and ask for another round of another new antibiotic.
Meanwhile, locally I advise to:
- wash with warm water and soap (preferably antibacterial soap)
- rinse well, dry well
- then apply betaine solution, let dry
- then apply fusidic acid cream together with betaderm already prescribed by your doctor.
Betaderm is a corticosteroid medication used to treat local inflammation.
Wish fast recovery.
Let me know if you have any other concern.
Dr.Albana
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Yogesh D
Hi, sorry I forgot the Fucidin in the timeline. It's more acurately like this: on the 7th I noticed my left forearm began to swell, 8th it was swollen noticeably, 9th went to the doc and I began my Antibiotics(Keflex 4x day), day 3/10 forearm is almost normal size, following days wound closes, no more pus, but lots of loose skin, I have always used topical antisepctic to clean, then polypsporin and gauze. So on until the 19th was my last Keflex. On the 20th I went for checkup, was given Fucidin for the loose skin(2x a day for 5 days). Day 3/5 of the Fucidin I noticed those rashes, only 3 were obvious then. I applied the Fucidin on the rashes and hoped after 5 days they will clear. Day 5 of Fucidin was the 25th. So I have used Fucidin for 5 straight days, the bottle says I should stop after 5 days. Today, the 27th I went back to doc, doc was surprised that the infection site was still hard ans a bit swollen. She said I don't need new antibiotics and gave me Betaderm for the rash and told me to take Advil for the swelling. I do somewhat agree that I feel like I could use more oral antibiotics as I have symptoms like sensitivity to light, etc. , I have told the doc that but..no. So what are the chances that I still have an infection after 10 days of Keflex antibiotics? What should I look for or feel that I'm still infected? Other than the light sensitivity. Do you think I would be okay until Monday day? Thanks!
Brief Answer:
Yes I really think you will be ok on Monday
Detailed Answer:
Hi back,
Thank you for providing additional information.
Now, let me runinto things gradually:
- skin infections are hard to treat, they require a long term treatment depending on the progress
Still thinking about taking another round of antibiotics but a different one (azythromycin or something else)
- the use of topical antibiotics and antiseptic is associated with increased photosensitivity of the affected area. This is commonly happening.
It will be vanished by time.
- the swelling is referring to inflammation. Betaderm will help ease the inflammation.
At this point, try the suggested treatment as per your doctor's advice until Monday. I hope the rash will get vanished but it will be still present in reduced size.
Continue taking Advil and try to keep your arms raised to help shkrinking the swollen arms.
Avoid tight clothes.
I really think you will be ok on Monday hopefully.
Do write me back and send your new photos on Monday.
Wish fast recovery.
Dr.Albana
Yes I really think you will be ok on Monday
Detailed Answer:
Hi back,
Thank you for providing additional information.
Now, let me runinto things gradually:
- skin infections are hard to treat, they require a long term treatment depending on the progress
Still thinking about taking another round of antibiotics but a different one (azythromycin or something else)
- the use of topical antibiotics and antiseptic is associated with increased photosensitivity of the affected area. This is commonly happening.
It will be vanished by time.
- the swelling is referring to inflammation. Betaderm will help ease the inflammation.
At this point, try the suggested treatment as per your doctor's advice until Monday. I hope the rash will get vanished but it will be still present in reduced size.
Continue taking Advil and try to keep your arms raised to help shkrinking the swollen arms.
Avoid tight clothes.
I really think you will be ok on Monday hopefully.
Do write me back and send your new photos on Monday.
Wish fast recovery.
Dr.Albana
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Nagamani Ng
Hi, Thanks for the detailed answer.
By photo sensitivity I mean my eyes, they don't focus too well just like if they were looking at bright light. Also there are days where I feel like my head is in the cloud hard to concentrate. For the last couple of days I feel better though, not 100%, hopefully I'm recovering, and if it weren't for these rashes I would be more positive.
So the rashes, in your opinion, is directly related to the infection, and that I could still have infections? as you mentioned it takes a long time to treat, but can this be an after effect of the infection as well as opposed to a lingering infection ?I read dummular dermatitis(the doc didn't say I have this, doc just said dermatitis) which are coin shaped rashes can appear after skin infection from staph.
After applying the betaderm 3x(12h apart) now, how long do you think I should be observing changes? If it's gets better, if it's the same, or it gets worst? I mean if it gets better I will continue, but if it's the same or worst how many days should I wait until I go back to doctor?
Also do I need to moisturize these rashes with a moisturizing cream or Lotion, after I applied the betaderm? If so what kind is best?
Lastly Do doctors like to space out AB, when do you think it's the best time to ask for more AB, considering this is day 10 since I'm off the keflex.
Thank you.
By photo sensitivity I mean my eyes, they don't focus too well just like if they were looking at bright light. Also there are days where I feel like my head is in the cloud hard to concentrate. For the last couple of days I feel better though, not 100%, hopefully I'm recovering, and if it weren't for these rashes I would be more positive.
So the rashes, in your opinion, is directly related to the infection, and that I could still have infections? as you mentioned it takes a long time to treat, but can this be an after effect of the infection as well as opposed to a lingering infection ?I read dummular dermatitis(the doc didn't say I have this, doc just said dermatitis) which are coin shaped rashes can appear after skin infection from staph.
After applying the betaderm 3x(12h apart) now, how long do you think I should be observing changes? If it's gets better, if it's the same, or it gets worst? I mean if it gets better I will continue, but if it's the same or worst how many days should I wait until I go back to doctor?
Also do I need to moisturize these rashes with a moisturizing cream or Lotion, after I applied the betaderm? If so what kind is best?
Lastly Do doctors like to space out AB, when do you think it's the best time to ask for more AB, considering this is day 10 since I'm off the keflex.
Thank you.
Brief Answer:
Following answers to your questions...
Detailed Answer:
Hi back xxxxx,
Even regarding your eye sensitivity to the light; it is temporary. Perhaps, the infection you had, the meds you tried, all together have contributed to this. It's temporary and not serious. If will persist, then, should consult with the ophthalmologist further.
Regarding your skin infection. I can only admit it is bacterial. If I was your caring doctor would ask to run culture and sensitivity testing of the pus deriving from the wounds to determine the exact bacteria and the best antibiotic to use.
If it was from staph, then, Keflex won't help. Vancomycin is the antibiotic of choice. Of course, that is recommended after having the results of pus culture, which I do not have.
I think that you might be seeing changes until Monday for the betaderm if it is really helping or not. However, give time to recovery. That's very important.
Yes, you can use moisturizing cream. I highly recommend those containing high levels of zinc oxide that will help with skin reparation.
To start another round of AB? Ok, ask to have the culture of the pus or wound swab by Monday. Based on the results, we can decide if you really need another round of AB or not.
Hope all your questions were adequately answered.
Let me know if you have other concerns.
Dr.Albana
Following answers to your questions...
Detailed Answer:
Hi back xxxxx,
Even regarding your eye sensitivity to the light; it is temporary. Perhaps, the infection you had, the meds you tried, all together have contributed to this. It's temporary and not serious. If will persist, then, should consult with the ophthalmologist further.
Regarding your skin infection. I can only admit it is bacterial. If I was your caring doctor would ask to run culture and sensitivity testing of the pus deriving from the wounds to determine the exact bacteria and the best antibiotic to use.
If it was from staph, then, Keflex won't help. Vancomycin is the antibiotic of choice. Of course, that is recommended after having the results of pus culture, which I do not have.
I think that you might be seeing changes until Monday for the betaderm if it is really helping or not. However, give time to recovery. That's very important.
Yes, you can use moisturizing cream. I highly recommend those containing high levels of zinc oxide that will help with skin reparation.
To start another round of AB? Ok, ask to have the culture of the pus or wound swab by Monday. Based on the results, we can decide if you really need another round of AB or not.
Hope all your questions were adequately answered.
Let me know if you have other concerns.
Dr.Albana
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Arnab Banerjee
Hi, thanks again.
Not sure if there could still be pus? The wound as mentioned is closed, there are layer of smooth skin on top.
Actually I don't really know what bacteria, I like to Google... , the doc saw my swollen forearm and says it's an infection , maybe ingrown hair and prescribed the Keflex for 10 days for me. The swelling and general symptoms got better the next day after 3 doses. I got my appetite back, my vision and mind was clear, 3rd day swelling was noticeably gone for the most part. The mind cloudiness and photosensitivity came back the next day. And I chalked in up as AB side effects.
So it has persisted well into day 10 after my last Keflex pill and this is common? I do feel better the last few days compared to the beginning of the week.
As for moisturizers, for some reason I bought few hypoallergenic ones, fearing the rash are rather sensitive, since the slightest graze makes it itchy and a bit more red and I dont want to flare it up more than I have to in case I have allergies to certain ingredients in more common moisturizers. I have bought Cetaphil Lotion and Glaxal Base Lotion. Would Cream be a better choice than Lotion for what I have? I have attached pics of the Lotion I bought, I can certainly return them and get something else if you recommend. If they're fine which one would be better for what I have.
Thank you so much for your patience.
BR, xxxxx
Not sure if there could still be pus? The wound as mentioned is closed, there are layer of smooth skin on top.
Actually I don't really know what bacteria, I like to Google... , the doc saw my swollen forearm and says it's an infection , maybe ingrown hair and prescribed the Keflex for 10 days for me. The swelling and general symptoms got better the next day after 3 doses. I got my appetite back, my vision and mind was clear, 3rd day swelling was noticeably gone for the most part. The mind cloudiness and photosensitivity came back the next day. And I chalked in up as AB side effects.
So it has persisted well into day 10 after my last Keflex pill and this is common? I do feel better the last few days compared to the beginning of the week.
As for moisturizers, for some reason I bought few hypoallergenic ones, fearing the rash are rather sensitive, since the slightest graze makes it itchy and a bit more red and I dont want to flare it up more than I have to in case I have allergies to certain ingredients in more common moisturizers. I have bought Cetaphil Lotion and Glaxal Base Lotion. Would Cream be a better choice than Lotion for what I have? I have attached pics of the Lotion I bought, I can certainly return them and get something else if you recommend. If they're fine which one would be better for what I have.
Thank you so much for your patience.
BR, xxxxx
Brief Answer:
Following answers to your questions...
Detailed Answer:
Hi xxxxx xxxxx,
I understand your concerns.
Again, your rash is due to infection you had. Please have patience until everything is resolved.
If no pus, then this is a good sign you're getting better.
Antibiotics use is associated with alterations in intestinal flora too. However, these are temporary and will fade when AB will get cleaned out your body.
Better keep only one of the moisturizer lotion you have, and buy zinc oxide (as cream or ointment).
Please wait until Monday, I'm sure you'll be better hopefully.
Dr.Albana
Following answers to your questions...
Detailed Answer:
Hi xxxxx xxxxx,
I understand your concerns.
Again, your rash is due to infection you had. Please have patience until everything is resolved.
If no pus, then this is a good sign you're getting better.
Antibiotics use is associated with alterations in intestinal flora too. However, these are temporary and will fade when AB will get cleaned out your body.
Better keep only one of the moisturizer lotion you have, and buy zinc oxide (as cream or ointment).
Please wait until Monday, I'm sure you'll be better hopefully.
Dr.Albana
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Hi, yes I understand. Sorry if I sounded so urgent I haven't been sick in quite a while. It changes your outlook in life.
So to replenish the flora I'm eating Organic Greek Yogurt, it says it contains 1billion probiotics, should I have this daily, I dont want to eat too much.
So zinc oxide is in addition to the moisturizer?
Is this acceptable :
1. Clean forearm with soap, can't find anti bacterial soap for some reason.
2. Dry forearm.
3. Apply betaderm.
4. Wait 30m? Per the pharmacist.
5. Apply zinc oxide.
6. Wait?
7. Apply moisturizer.
8. Hope.
Do I need, or should I, moisturize the rashes periodically? Or is it fine until the next application of betaderm(2x a day).
Best regards,
xxxx
So to replenish the flora I'm eating Organic Greek Yogurt, it says it contains 1billion probiotics, should I have this daily, I dont want to eat too much.
So zinc oxide is in addition to the moisturizer?
Is this acceptable :
1. Clean forearm with soap, can't find anti bacterial soap for some reason.
2. Dry forearm.
3. Apply betaderm.
4. Wait 30m? Per the pharmacist.
5. Apply zinc oxide.
6. Wait?
7. Apply moisturizer.
8. Hope.
Do I need, or should I, moisturize the rashes periodically? Or is it fine until the next application of betaderm(2x a day).
Best regards,
xxxx
Brief Answer:
Any soap is ok, apply zinc oxide when medicate
Detailed Answer:
Hi xxxxx xxxxx,
I am happy that you understood that your case is not an emergency and no need to rush. Time should be given instead.
If you can not find antibacterial soap,ok, that should not be a problem. Any soap is ok.
Preferably, I do recommended to apply zinc oxide ointment each time you medicate with betaderm. Moisturizer can be applied many times during the day, no need to medicate. If you prefer to apply when you medicate it's ok.
Wish fast recovery.
Dr.Albana
Any soap is ok, apply zinc oxide when medicate
Detailed Answer:
Hi xxxxx xxxxx,
I am happy that you understood that your case is not an emergency and no need to rush. Time should be given instead.
If you can not find antibacterial soap,ok, that should not be a problem. Any soap is ok.
Preferably, I do recommended to apply zinc oxide ointment each time you medicate with betaderm. Moisturizer can be applied many times during the day, no need to medicate. If you prefer to apply when you medicate it's ok.
Wish fast recovery.
Dr.Albana
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Nagamani Ng
Hi, thank you.
Unfortunately Zinc Oxide is not sold in Canada anymore. There's still a product http://zincofax.ca/products/extra-strength#extra. Which contains 40% zinc oxide.
Also will Benadryl help at all for this type of rash?
Lastly I see small empty looking bubbles on the rash that looks like they're easy to pop, can I add Polypsporin on the rash? How long after applying betaderm should I wait before applying polypsporin?
And hopefully it doesn't get to this, but how do I know if my rashes are infected. I have never scratched them but other surfaces like bed, car door may graze them. Please refer to the new attached pic for the bubbles.
Best regards,
Senri
Unfortunately Zinc Oxide is not sold in Canada anymore. There's still a product http://zincofax.ca/products/extra-strength#extra. Which contains 40% zinc oxide.
Also will Benadryl help at all for this type of rash?
Lastly I see small empty looking bubbles on the rash that looks like they're easy to pop, can I add Polypsporin on the rash? How long after applying betaderm should I wait before applying polypsporin?
And hopefully it doesn't get to this, but how do I know if my rashes are infected. I have never scratched them but other surfaces like bed, car door may graze them. Please refer to the new attached pic for the bubbles.
Best regards,
Senri
Brief Answer:
Following answers to your questions
Detailed Answer:
Hi xxxxxxx,
1. I went through the new photo you added. The rash area with small bubbles is due to allergy.
2. Betaderm is supposed to help, but not too much. I'm thinking of what might have caused allergy. Perhaps you worked outdoor?
Try Benadryl to see if any change.
3. No need for polisporin now, just continue with Benadryl.
4. Can use the product which contains 40% zinc oxide. But not now, wait until you see changes from Benadryl.
Try not to scratch, the rest does not matter.
Wish fast recovery.
Dr.Albana
Following answers to your questions
Detailed Answer:
Hi xxxxxxx,
1. I went through the new photo you added. The rash area with small bubbles is due to allergy.
2. Betaderm is supposed to help, but not too much. I'm thinking of what might have caused allergy. Perhaps you worked outdoor?
Try Benadryl to see if any change.
3. No need for polisporin now, just continue with Benadryl.
4. Can use the product which contains 40% zinc oxide. But not now, wait until you see changes from Benadryl.
Try not to scratch, the rest does not matter.
Wish fast recovery.
Dr.Albana
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Hi, how many days do you think I should use Benadryl and what dosage ? this my first day, already took 6 tablets (2 tablets each time, 4h apart). Not sure if it's helping yet.
Thanks.
Thanks.
Brief Answer:
Benadryl needs a few more hours to see evident changes...
Detailed Answer:
Hi xxxxxxxxxxxxxx,
Benadryl will take a few hours before seeing evident changes. So, must be patient.
The dose you are taking now 2 tablets every 4 hours is ok; Depending on changes, can change its dose too.
However, should still continue applying betaderm locally.
Wish fast recovery!
Dr.Albana
Benadryl needs a few more hours to see evident changes...
Detailed Answer:
Hi xxxxxxxxxxxxxx,
Benadryl will take a few hours before seeing evident changes. So, must be patient.
The dose you are taking now 2 tablets every 4 hours is ok; Depending on changes, can change its dose too.
However, should still continue applying betaderm locally.
Wish fast recovery!
Dr.Albana
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vishesh Rohatgi
Hi, Thanks for the reply.
I'm not sure if it's due to the Benadryl or normal recovery but the photosensitivity and general cloudiness feeling around my head has subsided. I hope this will last.
Can I ask how many days is safe to take benadryl back to back? Specifically for my condition, how many days should I stop taking Benadryl, 1. Days I should just stop If I dont notice changes 2. Days I can safely continue after I noticed changes.
Around the same time, after I took advil for the localized swelling around the old infection site, 2 days and then I stopped on Saturday because I developed chills, then I used benadryl once the next day, I noticed my left ear being red, and the Lobule looks swollen, attached are new pictures(normalzand swollen ear, and under the swollen ear) . It feels warm, a bit bumpy, and sometimes itchy, I don't feel any pain. Can my rash jump from my left forearm to my ear like this? Or is this a side effect of either advil or benadryl.
What can this be considering everything I have.
Thank you always,
xxxxx
I'm not sure if it's due to the Benadryl or normal recovery but the photosensitivity and general cloudiness feeling around my head has subsided. I hope this will last.
Can I ask how many days is safe to take benadryl back to back? Specifically for my condition, how many days should I stop taking Benadryl, 1. Days I should just stop If I dont notice changes 2. Days I can safely continue after I noticed changes.
Around the same time, after I took advil for the localized swelling around the old infection site, 2 days and then I stopped on Saturday because I developed chills, then I used benadryl once the next day, I noticed my left ear being red, and the Lobule looks swollen, attached are new pictures(normalzand swollen ear, and under the swollen ear) . It feels warm, a bit bumpy, and sometimes itchy, I don't feel any pain. Can my rash jump from my left forearm to my ear like this? Or is this a side effect of either advil or benadryl.
What can this be considering everything I have.
Thank you always,
xxxxx
Brief Answer:
Infection of skin around ear globe explained below...
Detailed Answer:
Hi xxxxxxxxxxxxxx,
1. Have you visited your doctor yesterday or today? I'm asking because I want to know the difference she might notice.
2. The rash behind and around your ear looks like skin infection more than allergy. Ok, now I should ask to apply Gentian violet locally before applying betaderm.
It could be better to add antibiotic ointment also. I do not know if they can give a mixture ointment containing antibiotic, steroid and antifungal. Your location is in Canada, I think you should have a prescription for that.
3. Regarding Benadryl, continue 2 tbs every 4 hours until improvement. When already improved, continue taking every 6 hours. It might last a few days (10 or more).
You can ask as many questions you have. I'm here to help with the best solutions for your health problems.
Wish fast recovery.
Dr.Albana
Infection of skin around ear globe explained below...
Detailed Answer:
Hi xxxxxxxxxxxxxx,
1. Have you visited your doctor yesterday or today? I'm asking because I want to know the difference she might notice.
2. The rash behind and around your ear looks like skin infection more than allergy. Ok, now I should ask to apply Gentian violet locally before applying betaderm.
It could be better to add antibiotic ointment also. I do not know if they can give a mixture ointment containing antibiotic, steroid and antifungal. Your location is in Canada, I think you should have a prescription for that.
3. Regarding Benadryl, continue 2 tbs every 4 hours until improvement. When already improved, continue taking every 6 hours. It might last a few days (10 or more).
You can ask as many questions you have. I'm here to help with the best solutions for your health problems.
Wish fast recovery.
Dr.Albana
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vaishalee Punj
Hi, Thanks for replying.
1. Not yet, since I do feel better generally. I can go today or tomorrow. How fast can this infection spread, if it is one? What could cause this? My ear rarely itches and I never consciously s had to scratch them. The location is what worries me, it seems related? It's only on the left side just like the troubled forearm.
1. Not yet, since I do feel better generally. I can go today or tomorrow. How fast can this infection spread, if it is one? What could cause this? My ear rarely itches and I never consciously s had to scratch them. The location is what worries me, it seems related? It's only on the left side just like the troubled forearm.
Brief Answer:
Nothing to worry, just continue treatment and following up
Detailed Answer:
Hi back,
An immediate evaluation by your caring doctor is required in order to minimize the spread of ear skin infection. That's why I was asking about taking an appointment.
There is nothing to worry about as long as you are being well treated.
We cannot say for sure how fast as we judge depending on progress and overall health status.
My fear is about a relapse of previous skin infection.
It's good that you are not scratching.
Wish you a fast recovery.
Dr.Albana
Nothing to worry, just continue treatment and following up
Detailed Answer:
Hi back,
An immediate evaluation by your caring doctor is required in order to minimize the spread of ear skin infection. That's why I was asking about taking an appointment.
There is nothing to worry about as long as you are being well treated.
We cannot say for sure how fast as we judge depending on progress and overall health status.
My fear is about a relapse of previous skin infection.
It's good that you are not scratching.
Wish you a fast recovery.
Dr.Albana
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Arnab Banerjee
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