Weird red marks/blemishes

[insuranceless]

A few weeks ago I first noticed these red marks appearing on my chest and abdomen.  I'd hoped maybe it was just acne or a rash but they are now appearing on my back and arms.  The original marks on my chest and abdomen are the largest, they almost look like blemishes or stretch marks.  The newer ones are smaller and almost look like mesquito bites.  They don't itch, my skin doesn't feel irritated, they aren't really bumps but if I run a finger over them I can feel the difference in texture.

I've washed my sheets and quit using my comforter thinking maybe bed bugs.  I wash my towels consistently.  I've stopped wearing my necklace thinking maybe I was having a reaction to whatever metal its made of.  I haven't changed laundry detergents recently, haven't made any major changes to my diet.  Haven't lost or gained any considerable amount of weight.  The only thing I can thing of is maybe something got into my protein powder and I'm having a reaction to that, or maybe I've developed an allergy to something else I eat every day.  Something in the air?  In the water?  I'm out of ideas.  I've included a pic in which you can see the marks aren't even really grouped together, they're just kind of random.

[insuranceless]

Thank you, I heard the same from a friend and the description and symptoms seem to be right on.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms it looks like pityriasis rosea. Pityriasis rosea is a common human skin disease which presents as numerous patches of pink or red oval rash. Initially, a primary plaque, called a herald patch, is seen. Then it is followed by a distinctive, generalized rash 1-2 weeks later. The rash lasts approximately 2-6 weeks and is found in a Christmas tree pattern over the trunk and abdomen.

The rash may be accompanied by low-grade headache, fever, nausea and fatigue and itching. Topical and oral steroids are needed. Water, sweat, and soap may cause irritation and should be avoided in the disease. Topical zinc oxide and calamine lotion are useful for pruritus.

I hope it helps. Take care and regards.