GENERAL SKIN PROBLEMS 95
What does the affected skin look like?
Areas of inflamed skin with a scaly surface
One or more red bumps with a central dark spot
Intermittent red raised areas( wheals)
None of the above
ACTION
TRY SELF-HELP MEASURES You may have urticaria.
• Soothe the irritation with cold compresses or calamine lotion.
• Try over-the-counter antihistamine tablets.
CALL YOUR DOCTOR NOW if you are experiencing breathing difficulties.
ACTION
SEE YOUR DOCTOR WITHIN 24 HOURS You may have shingles.
• Soothe the irritation with cold compresses or calamine lotion.
• Take an analgesic such as acetaminophen.
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR You may have psoriasis.
What do the edges of the rash look like?
Merge into surrounding skin
Clearly defined margins
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR You may have a fungal infection like ringworm.
ACTION
TRY SELF-HELP MEASURES You may have been bitten by an insect.
• Try using an antihistamine cream.
Does either of the following apply?
You have a rash that spreads out from a central red spot
You have been bitten by a tick
Neither
ACTION
SEE YOUR DOCTOR
WITHIN 24 HOURS You may have impetigo.
• Do not touch blisters. If you have had the same problem before, it could be a cold sore.
• Use an over-thecounter antiviral cream.
ACTION
TRY SELF-HELP MEASURES You may have a form of eczema.
• Follow the advice for relieving itchiness( p. 165).
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR if your rash does not improve within 1 week or if any other symptoms develop.
ACTION
SEE YOUR DOCTOR WITHIN 24 HOURS You may have Lyme disease, which is carried by ticks.
ACTION
CALL YOUR DOCTOR NOW Your symptoms may be a side effect of the drug.
• Stop taking any overthe-counter medicines but continue to take prescribed medication unless advised to stop by your doctor.
Are you currently taking any medication?
Medication
No medication
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR if you cannot identify a possible cause for your skin problem from this chart.