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What causes the itchy rashes and watery eruptions on hands?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 66-year-old male with no diabetes, no hypertension, and normal lipid levels. I am working in a remote area where no medical facility is available. Since last week, I have developed a rash on my right hand with a rose-colored circle and several watery eruptions. It is confined to my hand. The eruptions near my right thumb and on the back near the nail are painful.

There is not much itching, except for occasional itching near the rosy area. There are no rashes in other areas, and I haven’t had any fever so far. I’ve taken some photos of the eruptions for your review. A local RMP advised using an antibacterial ointment, but it hasn’t been very effective. I traveled as a pillion rider on a motorbike, holding iron rods at the back, and noticed the eruptions soon after. I am worried it might be chickenpox. I look forward to your advice.

Answered by Dr. Kumaresan Muthuvel

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Kumaresan Muthuvel is a Dermatologist with expertise in medical and cosmetic dermatology, acne and acne scar management, pigmentation disorders, hair and nail disorders, skin infections, eczema and psoriasis care, anti-aging treatments, laser therapy, and patient-centered skin health management.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through the images (attachment removed to protect patient identity). You are having herpes zoster. This is a viral infection. I suggest taking the following tablet. Valacyclovir 1 g thrice a day for five days. Consult your specialist doctor, discuss with him or her and start taking the medicines with their consent. The infection will subside in seven days. You might experience some pain for 30 days.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at icliniq.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I shall take the medicine as suggested. Can I take bath? What medicine may I take for the pain near the thumb which is believed to be the first infection contact area? I have Paracetamol 500 mg and Ibuprofen 200 mg available in this area.

Answered by Dr. Kumaresan Muthuvel

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Kumaresan Muthuvel is a Dermatologist with expertise in medical and cosmetic dermatology, acne and acne scar management, pigmentation disorders, hair and nail disorders, skin infections, eczema and psoriasis care, anti-aging treatments, laser therapy, and patient-centered skin health management.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

For the pain, you can take Paracetamol and Ibuprofen. Pain is expected for a month's time. Take the painkiller only if the pain is severe.

Medically reviewed by Dr. K. Shobana
Published At April 14, 2018
Reviewed At October 9, 2024

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Kumaresan Muthuvel is a Dermatologist with expertise in medical and cosmetic dermatology, acne and acne scar management, pigmentation disorders, hair and nail disorders, skin infections, eczema and psoriasis care, anti-aging treatments, laser therapy, and patient-centered skin health management.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. K. Shobana is a Dental Surgeon specializing in oral health and dental care. She is skilled in preventive dentistry and provides oral hygiene education. She can do restorative treatments such as fillings and crowns. She can handle periodontal problems such as gum diseases and periodontitis. She can do root canal treatment.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Kumaresan Muthuvel is a Dermatologist with expertise in medical and cosmetic dermatology, acne and acne scar management, pigmentation disorders, hair and nail disorders, skin infections, eczema and psoriasis care, anti-aging treatments, laser therapy, and patient-centered skin health management.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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