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What Causes Heightened Skin Sensitivity In Left-sided Abdomen And Ribs?

Posted on Fri, 15 Apr 2016

Question: Good morning. I am in excellent health for 55 years of age. On Wednesday of last week I developed a condition that feels like a heighten skin sensitivity on my left side abdominal area -all the way over my ribs. Almost like a sun burn, but there is no visible skin irritation. Although I'm eating, drinking, eliminating as usual, I do get the feeling like I have a mild fever -head aches, and area that feels sensitive aches. While rest helps, I have not stopped doing my normal set of activities (work, gym, diet, etc...). I'm at work today. Thanks. XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Sudhir Kumar (31 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Suggestive of neuralgia

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thank you for posting your query.

I have noted your symptoms and they are suggestive of neuralgia, a pain of nerve origin.

The common causes of heightened skin sensitivity (paresthesia) in an abdominal area over ribs (thoracic dermatomal distribution) are diabetes and post herpes infection.

For relief, you can start on carbamazepine tablets or pregabalin capsules. Symptoms get better over time.

Best wishes,
Dr Sudhir Kumar MD DM (Neurology) XXXXXXX Consultant Neurologist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Naveen Kumar

Follow up: Dr. Sudhir Kumar (6 minutes later)

Thanks. I did have chicken pox as a child, no herpes or diabetes however.

Also, this medication, is it over the counter or prescription? Is their a common name brand?
XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Sudhir Kumar (2 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Needs a prescription.

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for getting back.

Post herpetic neuralgia can occur after several years, as the virus can remain dormant in the body for longer time period.

You need prescription for both carbamazepine (Tegretol) and Pregabalin (Lyrica). hence i advice you to consult your family physician and get prescription.

Best wishes,

Dr Sudhir Kumar MD DM (Neurology)

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. Naveen Kumar