HomeAnswersDermatologybed bugsWhy do I get pus-filled bumps when traveling to a hot climate?

Can I get pus-filled bumps on my body after traveling and swimming in a hot climate?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Shanza Ikram

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At January 4, 2023
Reviewed AtOctober 9, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am currently traveling in a very hot and humid climate and have been swimming a lot. Two days ago, I woke up with red bumps on one side, which appeared fairly localized. The bumps got darker within a day. Now there are a couple of bumps that have pus, and they look like whiteheads. The spots are not itchy but can be sore when I apply pressure. At first, I thought it might be bed bugs, but I did not see any evidence of bed bugs in the hotel room when I searched it thoroughly. I have been in contact with a dog, so flea bites may also be possible. I recently completed (a month ago) taking Epuris for cystic acne. I have never had acne on my waist before. There has been one report of streptococcus in the area that I was swimming in, possibly folliculitis. I am unsure as I have only baby hairs in that area of my body. I have no other symptoms like fever, chills, upset stomach, etc. In two days, the bumps have slowly become more pronounced and dark red but are not spreading to other parts of my body. I am also not allergic to anything. I am not taking any medications except acid reflux medications, which I have been on for a long time This has never happened to me before.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Shanza Ikram

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I have reviewed your case and suggest this could be a bug bite reaction. Sometimes bugs are so tiny that they can not be seen with the human eye. So stay relaxed; you will soon feel better. I would advise the following:

  1. Apply 5 percent Permethrin lotion on your whole body at night and shower in the morning. It is a one-time application only.
  2. Apply Calamine lotion twice a day on your whole body for ten days.
  3. Take tablet Cetrizine 10 mg at night for ten days.
  4. Regularly wash your clothes and bedding.

Consult a specialist doctor, discuss with them, and take medications with their consent.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Shanza Ikram
Dr. Shanza Ikram

Dermatology

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