HomeAnswersDermatologyfever with rashI have itchy rashes after a fever and a sore throat. Why?

How to cure red and itchy rashes on my trunk that appeared along with flu-like symptoms?

Share

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

Medically reviewed by

Dr. K. Shobana

Published At October 10, 2022
Reviewed AtOctober 10, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Last week I thought I had the flu and was extremely tired. Then I had a sore throat, mild cough, and runny nose for a few days. I took the Nyquil tablet. Five days ago, I noticed some itchy rashes and thought they would go away, but they just kept getting worse. I woke up today, and they are more red and itchier. I only have the rashes on my trunk, nothing on my limbs or face. Flu-like symptoms are gone. I got shingles two years ago; I do not know if that helps. Currently, I am taking birth control pills also. I am attaching the pictures for your reference. Kindly suggest.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I saw your clinical picture (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity), and I suggest it is in Pityriasis Rosea papular form. I can see a few raised bumps. This requires close observation to appreciate scales, the pattern to say precisely that it is pityriasis rosea. Pityriasis Rosea is a noninfectious self-limiting condition usually seen after an episode of fever, sometimes drug-induced. It has been linked to HSV (herpes simplex virus-6 and 7). Classically there will be red patches with scales at the edges called collarette of scales. The rash which appeared first is called a mother patch; subsequent patches are called daughter patches. On the back, rashes will be seen along the skin lines that may seem like an inverted fir tree. You may also see some new patches on the thighs, neck, and arms. This is a self-limiting condition, but there will be a peak around the second week, where you will see new rashes that will subside in another one or two weeks. Topically you can apply Calamine (Zinc oxide and 0.5 % Ferric oxide) lotion to help with itching. If rashes become worse, you will need oral antiviral medications such as Acyclovir (Magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, Sodium starch glycollate, pregelatinized starch, and colloidal anhydrous silica) or Valacyclovir (Valacyclovir hydrochloride). This is not shingles. Shingles are Herpes zoster viral reactivation that presents with grouped blisters with redness involving half of the body with the dermatomal pattern. Thank you.

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

Dr. Ashwini. V. Swamy
Dr. Ashwini. V. Swamy

Venereology

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Dermatology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy