I smell like the bad parts of summer camp

[abka]

Saw the doctor (PA, same difference) today. She agrees it looks like pityriasis rosea. If it was something more contagious (like scabies) D. would have it. I'm supposed to come in if D. gets it or I get a fever. Otherwise I just have to wait it out (6-8 weeks). I can treat symptoms, but it's probably a virus and there's nothing they can do for it. :(

They had a bunch of pityriasis rosea cases this spring, more than normal, and including the doctor in the practice. She said mine was the worst case she's seen because it's spread from my trunk (to my upper thighs, and the inside of my upper arm P.S. this is a very sensitive area), and on top of the spots I have general irritation (little red bumps) all over my torso. Fun times. At least I got pap smear off my to do list.

My anti-itch plan
I have been using:
-calamine lotion, I'm basically bathing in it
-cortisone cream, used sparingly on the really itchy spots (which keep moving!)
-benadryl (so I can sleep for a few hours until it wears off and I wake up scratching)
-aveeno lotion (anytime my skin even starts to seem dry)

Today I acquired:
-oatmeal bath packets
-claritin (might help, can't hurt, said the doctor)
-eucerin calming anti-itch cream

Current philosophy: This really sucks, but at least it's not scabies.

Comments

[invaderjim]

I think I had a milder case of that a few years ago - the doctor thought I got it at the pool. That was the last time I went to the pool for a loooong time. :/

I hope you feel much less itchy very very soon!

[abka]

Thanks.