How to tell if my rashes are due to a food allergy? (photo)

Doctor's Answers 1

Dermatologist

Thank you for the question and the clear photos. From the photos, it looks like you are suffering from hives, or the medical term is urticaria. This can occur suddenly, and may be related to a recent viral illness, certain medicines, insect bites or food.

Sometimes, no clear trigger or cause can be found. For patients who suffer with this condition for longer than 6 weeks, we will run some blood tests to check for underlying issues such as thyroid abnormalities or parasitic infections.

This condition is usually successfully treated with regular antihistamines. In severe cases, a course of oral steroids may be needed. Alcohol and NSAID painkillers (brufen, aspirin family) should be avoided during periods of flare as these can worsen the condition. If you would like to check for allergy to specific foods, a simple blood test can be performed in clinic.

Hope this helps!

Best regards

Dr Stephanie Ho, Dermatologist

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What could be causes of red rashes that appear after jogging?

What you’ve described is likely to be urticaria (or hives), induced by exercise/sweating/heat in this instance. It can occur at any age. The itchy rash tends to appear on your front, back, and chest, as you’ve described. I believe that the colloquial term for this is “feng mo”. Urticaria/hives is very common, and usually goes away on its own. If it persists after your exercise, you can see a doctor to prescribe anti-histamine tablets, which are very helpful in getting rid of the itch and rash.