Allergic
Dear Dr. Jen,
I noticed I got rashes on my arms three days after starting my antibiotic medication for cough. I took this same antibiotic last year. Is it possible to be allergic to an antibiotic that I have previously taken?
Joey
Dear Joey,
Definitely, it is possible to get an allergic reaction even if it’s not your first time to take the medicine. First few exposures means the body has not yet formed antibodies to the drug or medicine. A biopsy will clinch the diagnosis if it is indeed a drug reaction.
Meanwhile, stopping intake of the offending medicine and treatment with anti-allergy creams and antihistamines will be needed for a couple of days to restore the skin. Using mild soap and lotion at this point will help avoid further aggravation of the problem.
Dear Dr. Jen,
My fellow worker has white spots on his face and neck. I’m worried if this is transmissible, because he is the one who prepares food. He seems very unconcerned about it. Should I be worried?
Dani
Dear Dani,
White spots can be a number of things. But what comes to the top of the mind are fungal infections and vitiligo. Yes, pityriasis versicolor can be contagious via skin to skin transmission as it is a fungal infection. Is it scaly or itchy? These are off white or tan colored spots on the skin. It can be found on the back, chest, neck, face and arms. It is aggravated by hot, sweaty conditions. This is also easily treated by anti-fungal medications used for a week or two.
When it comes to paper-white spots, it can be vitiligo. This, on the other hand is an auto-immune condition and is not contagious. It needs lifelong management. Best to advice your manager to bring him to the nearest PDS derma so a proper diagnosis can be made and treatment can be given.
Dr. Tan is a diplomate of Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) and is affiliated with the Perpetual Succour Hospital (PSH). Information on PDS is at www.pds.org.ph. Questions or concerns regarding the skin may be sent by text to 0932 857 7070 or emailed to [email protected]; or coursed thru The Freeman – (032) 2531276, or thru PSH – (032) 2338620 and 2325929. Inquiries will be forwarded to Dr. Tan.
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