Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Itchy Rashes On The Calves?
Question: I have a rash that started in my calves that seems to be spreading. It is burning and itching and is wrapping around my calves and thighs. Benadryl works but not for long. I've been using hydrocortizone cream with aloe but doesn't seem to help. It seams to be drying out my skin. I have not been around any poison ivy or poison oak or anything of that nature. Would an epson salt bath help and if so, should it be hot or cold? This started about 2 to 3 weeks ago. It presented with red patchy areas that eventually connected.
Brief Answer:
A photo and following additional information are needed
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I am sorry for the situation you are in.
Can you please send a photo of the itchy area?
Have you noticed any insect bite so far?
Do you have any other health issues like chills? joint pain?
Thank you.
Dr.Albana
A photo and following additional information are needed
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I am sorry for the situation you are in.
Can you please send a photo of the itchy area?
Have you noticed any insect bite so far?
Do you have any other health issues like chills? joint pain?
Thank you.
Dr.Albana
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank for your response. There have been no insect bites that I've noticed, and no joint pains, chills or other issues. I will sent a photo in just a moment. Thank you.
I just uploaded a photo of my calf with Cortizone lotion on part of the rash. Thank you.
I just uploaded a photo of my calf with Cortizone lotion on part of the rash. Thank you.
Brief Answer:
Seems skin infection as following...
Detailed Answer:
Hi back,
I've just received your photo and noted the rash. From what I've seen so far, it seems a case of skin infection (possible impetigo to me). I think the area there was is hot too.
Hydrocortisone alone cannot help. Need to see dermatologist as soon as possible as you need to start prescription medications orally And locally.
Should start:,
- antibacterial/antifungal ointment containing triamcinolone/polymyxin/Nystatin
- continue taking antihistaminic for itchiness. To me should start a short term treatment with steroid shots
- keep good leg hygiene
If you can't see dermatologist immediately, tgeb, wash the area with warm water and soap, rinse well, dry well, then apply gentian violet or Castellani solution locally until you see dermatologist for final treatment.
Wish fast recovery.
Dr.Albana
Seems skin infection as following...
Detailed Answer:
Hi back,
I've just received your photo and noted the rash. From what I've seen so far, it seems a case of skin infection (possible impetigo to me). I think the area there was is hot too.
Hydrocortisone alone cannot help. Need to see dermatologist as soon as possible as you need to start prescription medications orally And locally.
Should start:,
- antibacterial/antifungal ointment containing triamcinolone/polymyxin/Nystatin
- continue taking antihistaminic for itchiness. To me should start a short term treatment with steroid shots
- keep good leg hygiene
If you can't see dermatologist immediately, tgeb, wash the area with warm water and soap, rinse well, dry well, then apply gentian violet or Castellani solution locally until you see dermatologist for final treatment.
Wish 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. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
