What causes red, itchy bumps on the body, and what should I do?

Generally, red, itchy bumps on the skin may be caused by insect bite dermatitis, eczema, contact dermatitis, urticaria, folliculitis, or other conditions. Patients should avoid scratching, ensure proper ventilation, and follow medical advice regarding medication. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention to identify the cause and receive appropriate treatment as directed by a physician. Specific information is as follows:

1. Insect Bite Dermatitis: This is often caused by bites from mosquitoes, mites, bedbugs, fleas, bees, midges, ticks, and other insects. It presents as sudden onset of pea- to fingertip-sized wheal-like red patches accompanied by severe itching. Scratching the affected area should be avoided as much as possible, as it may worsen skin inflammation, causing the red bumps to spread or become more itchy.

2. Eczema: Eczema may be triggered by skin barrier dysfunction or stimuli such as sun exposure, cold or heat, allergens, or consumption of irritating foods. Symptoms may include red papules or papulovesicles on the skin accompanied by itching. Proper ventilation should be maintained to prevent excessive indoor temperatures. Anti-inflammatory medications such as halometasone cream, tacrolimus ointment, or pimecrolimus cream may be used under a doctor's guidance.

3. Contact Dermatitis: Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin or mucous membranes come into contact with external substances, such as animal dander, cosmetics, inhaled pollen, or formaldehyde, either once or repeatedly. It may present with localized redness, blisters, and itching or pain. Antiallergic medications such as loratadine granules, cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, or chlorpheniramine maleate tablets may be used under medical supervision.

4. Urticaria: Urticaria is a type of skin disorder caused by various factors, including exposure to specific foods or medications, mental stress, endocrine abnormalities, or bacterial or viral infections. It presents as irregularly shaped, raised patches of bright red or pale color on the skin, accompanied by significant itching. Patients should take medications under a doctor's guidance, such as ebastine tablets, cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, or prednisone acetate tablets, which have anti-inflammatory effects.

5. Folliculitis: Folliculitis is an inflammatory reaction occurring in hair follicles. If the skin barrier is compromised, bacteria may invade the follicles, causing red bumps centered around hair follicles, accompanied by itching. Patients may use medications such as amoxicillin capsules, ketoconazole shampoo, or calamine lotion under medical supervision to achieve antibacterial effects.

In daily life, patients should use mild moisturizing products to keep the skin hydrated, which helps relieve itching and prevent dryness. Avoid consuming foods that may trigger allergies, such as seafood or mangoes. At the same time, maintain a balanced diet and enhance immunity.