What causes widespread red bumps all over the body that are very itchy?
Generally, the causes of widespread red rashes accompanied by itching include mosquito or insect bites, environmental factors, eczema, contact dermatitis, and folliculitis. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. The detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Mosquito or Insect Bites
After a mosquito or insect bite, acidic substances in their saliva may trigger an allergic reaction on the skin, causing local vasodilation and increased permeability, which leads to red bumps accompanied by itching. There may also be mild pain and swelling. Treatment may include calamine lotion, mupirocin ointment, erythromycin ointment, and other medications under a doctor's guidance.
2. Environmental Factors
Damp and polluted environments may contain numerous allergens or irritants. Long-term exposure can trigger or worsen allergic reactions, leading to widespread red rashes and itching, possibly accompanied by respiratory symptoms such as sneezing and runny nose. It is recommended to improve the living environment, maintain indoor cleanliness and dryness, ventilate frequently, and reduce exposure to allergens.
3. Eczema
Eczema is caused by various internal and external factors, which may damage the skin barrier function. This makes the skin more susceptible to external stimuli, resulting in inflammation, itching, red bumps, and may also be accompanied by dryness and flaking. Treatment may include topical medications such as doxepin hydrochloride cream, desonide cream, tacrolimus ointment, and others, as directed by a physician.
4. Contact Dermatitis
Contact with irritants or allergens such as metals, cosmetics, detergents, animal fur, dust, and pollen may trigger an inflammatory response, causing red bumps and itching. There may also be a burning sensation or pain. Antihistamines such as loratadine tablets, promethazine hydrochloride tablets, and terfenadine tablets may be taken under medical guidance.
5. Folliculitis
Folliculitis is caused by infection with Staphylococcus aureus, which invades and multiplies within skin tissues, producing toxins and metabolic products that stimulate skin nerve endings, causing itching, redness, and swelling. It may also be accompanied by pustules and pain. Treatment may include mupirocin ointment, compound Pien Tze Huang ointment, Wu Miao Shui Xian ointment, and other medications as directed by a physician.
If widespread red rashes accompanied by itching occur, it is recommended to visit a dermatology department at a hospital promptly for diagnosis and treatment by a professional physician. At the same time, maintaining good lifestyle and dietary habits to enhance the body's immunity can help prevent such symptoms.