29 yr old female, no meds except the ones mentioned in this story, no medical conditions, no drug or food allergies, no fevers
I have been breaking out from head to toe for months. The rash is very painful and has left scars on my arms, legs, and chest. I saw 2 dermatologists. One did a biopsy and saw "inflammation". He said it was probably allergies and to just take Benadryl. The rash continued getting worse. I got a 2nd opinion with another dermatologist. He said it was contact dermatitis. He gave me a prescription cream. The rash continued to get so bad that it was in my mouth and throat, in addition to my body, and I felt like my throat was swelling up and closing. I winded up in urgent care and got a shot of Benadryl and a shot of Solu-Medrol. The rash remained visible but I felt like I could breathe easily! I took steroid pills for a week and it was about 80% cleared up for the first time in many months!
I went back to the dermatologist and he finally said I was having an allergic reaction to something, a "contact allergy". He said to take 2 Zyrtec in the morning and 2 Benadryl at night. About half the rash went away.
Now the rash is back worse than ever! I have no idea what I'm having a reaction to. I have not eaten anything new, haven't been exposed to anything new, no new pets, no new soaps, detergents, etc. I have a referral for an allergist but the soonest appointment I could get is over 2 weeks away!
***Questions:
*Has anyone had anything similar?
*It was just suggested I take Zyrtec and Allegra together in the morning. Does anyone else do this? Is this safe?
*I am extremely careful not to itch but this is still leaving me with more and more scars because the rash is so bad! Any advice on how to avoid scaring?
*The only real relief I got was from the steroid pills but I obviously can't take them forever. If only steroids clear it up, does it mean it's something in particular?
I am so tired of every inch of my skin breaking out and feeling painful 97% of the time! I would greatly appreciate any info, what has helped in other's similar experiences, or anything! I'm tired of avoiding leaving my house because I'm afraid people will think I have some contagious disease. It is so frustrating. :(
Thank you!