Hi,
It is difficult to determine the exact cause of the red itchy dry patches without a proper medical examination. However, some possible causes of the symptoms you described include:
* Fungal infection: This could be caused by a type of yeast called Candida or other fungi that can grow on the skin, causing red, itchy, scaly patches. These infections often respond well to antifungal creams.
* Eczema: A skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed patches on the skin. It can occur on any part of the body, including the abdomen and chest. Eczema can be triggered by various factors such as
stress, allergens, and irritants.
* Psoriasis: This is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes thick, scaly patches on the skin. It typically affects the
scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back, but can also appear on the abdomen and chest.
* Contact dermatitis: This can be caused by direct contact with an irritant or an allergen, resulting in red, itchy, and scaly patches on the skin.
* Other conditions: There are other possible causes of the symptoms, such as
shingles,
lupus, or
insect bites.
Given the additional symptoms of a
low-grade fever and headache, it is recommended to seek medical attention from a healthcare provider or
dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment. They may recommend over-the-counter creams or prescribe medication if necessary.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician