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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by Dinah on April 30, 2008, at 16:34:11
In reply to Re: HIVES! » Phillipa, posted by Poet on April 28, 2008, at 11:45:38
Your interview is tomorrow, right?
Posted by rskontos on April 30, 2008, at 17:32:42
In reply to How are they doing? » Poet, posted by Dinah on April 30, 2008, at 16:34:11
I have had a similar thing for the last two months and my dermo finally figured it out to a fungus. Go figure. He did two cultures and finally biospied a patch. But steriods did not make it go away, made it somewhat better but I got a new outbreak. Benadry helped but did not make it go away. The antifungicide is the only thing that takes away the itch and is finally making the hives/rashy stuff go away. And that biospy hurt as he took it from my scalp. And no the pain shot in my head hurt too.
Anyway, I do understand,
itchy rsk
Posted by Poet on April 30, 2008, at 19:10:04
In reply to How are they doing? » Poet, posted by Dinah on April 30, 2008, at 16:34:11
Hi Dinah,
I am covered with ugly purple scabs and luck is with me as my headhunter called and said they "fell in love with another second interview candidate today" and hired them. Okay with me, I would not have been up to it.
If I still look like this Friday, I'm calling the doctor.
Poet
Posted by Poet on April 30, 2008, at 19:13:59
In reply to Re: How are they doing?Poet, posted by rskontos on April 30, 2008, at 17:32:42
Hi rs,
That's really interesting as my T (who has no medical training) said she thought it looked like a fungus. She'll be thrilled if she was right, but I'm not thrilled if I've been treated with the wrong stuff. I'm on the steroids through Friday and going to call the doctor then and ask if I should be scabby and itchy still. Though I don't looke forward to a fungus test if that is what this ick is.
Yours in itching, Poet
Posted by Phillipa on April 30, 2008, at 21:14:39
In reply to Re: How are they doing?Poet » rskontos, posted by Poet on April 30, 2008, at 19:13:59
Poet ummmm just finished watching a segment of Dr. Phil seems there is almost an epidemic of MRSA all over. Methyl Resistant Staph Auryous Sp? Any little bumps like a pimple they say could be it and biopsy recommended. Google MRSA see what they say and if it resembles it at all. I had a spider bite last summer. One of the cautions of the docs on the show was not to accept a dx of a spider bite to have it biopsied as could be MRSA. Also the show is on the internet Dr Phil. Not trying to scare you but I am going to stop biting my cuticles so no open wounds. Love Phillipa plan to google it myself.
Posted by rskontos on May 1, 2008, at 11:23:58
In reply to Re: How are they doing?Poet » rskontos, posted by Poet on April 30, 2008, at 19:13:59
Yeah Poet, we can start a Itching Society, although I am not sure if we would get volunteer members LOL.
I am not sure if a biopsy is the only way to test for it as I am sometimes wondering if my dermo is one of those docs that forgets people feel pain. Anyway, last night I had another sudden rash on my face and had to take an emergency benadryl. Since I was on the anti-fungicide meds I was not taking benadryl. It stopped the itch and the rash is gone this morning. I personally think once your immune system gets one of these it takes a while to get rid of it meds or not.
At least that is what the PA for this dermo said. It has also temporaily caused me not to be able to use sunscreen. At least two kinds of sunscreen I get an immediate rash. This was not a problem before. She said that that sometimes is a side effect when a rash takes over makes the skin very sensitive but hopefully is just temporary.
If it is any consolation fungus' are the last thing because this are very unusual. Lucky me and possible you. The med has been for the most part side effect free except it gave me a rash like a heat rash (only not itching, just in appearance) for the first three or four days but took care of the itch and the rash was only on my shoulders below my neck, weird huh, and it was hot, no bumps, and then it suddenly went away and has not been back except for that thing yesterday. So again go figure.
What a pain. Good luck.
rsk
Posted by rskontos on May 1, 2008, at 11:35:31
In reply to Re: How are they doing?Poet » Poet, posted by Phillipa on April 30, 2008, at 21:14:39
Phillip, that is caused by bacteria. Mine were cultured twice for bacteria to see if that was what I had and no for bacteria. My dermo made the lab re-do the lab results for error both times. No errors. I also looked at the photos and mine did not look like that. Nor have I been in the hospital or used antibotics lately which are two possible causes. MRSA is staph infection. It can be nasty though. I am sure Poet's doctors thought of this (Let's say I hope they did). Bacteria is usually the first culprit to be blamed.
I had a biopsy done. My was a fungus. It doesn't say they itch though and this is the main sympton for both of us. And in scalp and hairline.
rsk
Posted by Phillipa on May 1, 2008, at 12:43:59
In reply to Re: How are they doing?Poet » Phillipa, posted by rskontos on May 1, 2008, at 11:35:31
RSK sorry guess was overreacting as that news story was scarey. Yes it started in hospitals now is also in the community. Pimples are suspect. I didn't know that. Glad you were cultured. Phew. Sorry again. Phillipa
Posted by rskontos on May 1, 2008, at 18:38:54
In reply to Re: How are they doing?Poet » rskontos, posted by Phillipa on May 1, 2008, at 12:43:59
No No don't be sorry. It is scary. So much is these days. But then who knows what really is behind the cause and root of all that is croping up these days. I mean my stuff just started and my dermo is one of the best in my area. He has been head scratching during this. And he still wasn't sure the meds would work. After I had been on it for about 4 days he had his pa call to check. And I said I guess it is working at least on the itching it had stopped. So they thin k it is working. At least for me, the itching stopping was a HUGE relief. You know you never realize how bad a constant itch can be and how it can increase over days and drive you crazy. I am not looking to forward to it ever coming back!!!
rsk
Posted by Phillipa on May 1, 2008, at 19:54:42
In reply to Re: How are they doing?Poet » Phillipa, posted by rskontos on May 1, 2008, at 18:38:54
Wouldn't a fungal infection be caused by a dark damp place? Philippa
Posted by Poet on May 2, 2008, at 16:23:34
In reply to Re: How are they doing?Poet » Poet, posted by rskontos on May 1, 2008, at 11:23:58
I am going to ask if it might be a fungus or somekind of bacteria infection. I've had hives before, other people I know have had them and for us they have never become purple itchy scabs. My father is a retired pharmacist and he saw my face today and said "I've seen that before and it's not hives."
So Monday I give it another shot and hopefully this time they will get it right. I'm going to brave it to water aerobics tomorrow and warn the class that I can't be splashed in the face. I don't want to know how chlorine will burn my face. Maybe I should skip the third class in a row, but it's my only exercise. I hate this.
More Monday.
Poet
Posted by Phillipa on May 2, 2008, at 20:04:57
In reply to Doc appointment Monday morning, posted by Poet on May 2, 2008, at 16:23:34
Poet sorry in my opinion this has gone on too long. You mention water aerobics and my ex got a staph infection in a hot tub at a YMCA. If I were you I wouldn't wait. What did your Dad say to do? Love Phillipa
Posted by Poet on May 3, 2008, at 10:31:18
In reply to Re: Doc appointment Monday morning » Poet, posted by Phillipa on May 2, 2008, at 20:04:57
Hi Phillipa,
I did do water aerobics and managed not to get my face wet, but I am dead tired. My father isn't at all sure what this is other than he knows it isn't hives. I'm thinking fungus, I did do some major gardening two weeks ago and maybe something in the soil/dead leaves I cleared out had some kind of fungus that can affect humans. I'm off the steriods today so if they were making it worse I should be less scabby I hope.
I'll definitely post what the doc says on Monday.
This just stinks.Poet
Posted by Poet on May 5, 2008, at 11:22:18
In reply to Re: Doc appointment Monday morning » Phillipa, posted by Poet on May 3, 2008, at 10:31:18
I feel vindicated that I was right that it isn't hives. I'm now on Valtrex and Prednisone. Have an appointment with an eye doctor tomorrow because my right eye is flaming red and infected. At least a virus explains why I have no energy and just want to sleep.
I still look hideous and of course have a job interview Wed. afternoon. Maybe I can wear makeup.
Poet
Posted by Phillipa on May 5, 2008, at 12:39:53
In reply to New DX: herpes zoster/shingles, posted by Poet on May 5, 2008, at 11:22:18
Poet you poor dear hope the eyes is okay. But seriously a question is it contagious in the sense that say pink eye is ? If so may have to cancel but if like a cold sore would think okay but I sure don't know the doc will though so glad you finally got a diagnosis and proper meds. Love Phillipa
Posted by Phillipa on May 5, 2008, at 12:46:43
In reply to Re: New DX: herpes zoster/shingles » Poet, posted by Phillipa on May 5, 2008, at 12:39:53
Poet you will be fine and be able to keep the job interview a quick search yielded this. Yup on the right meds looks like just some eye drops. Keep us posted. Learned something again. Phillipa
Herpes Zoster (Shingles) Eye Infections
What is Herpes Zoster?
Herpes zoster is the medical name for shingles. It is caused by reactivation in the adult years of the chicken pox virus that occurred during childhood (the varicalla-zoster virus). The virus can be reactivated when the body's immunity to the virus breaks down. This may happen due to normal aging, or the body's immune system may become weakened due to stress from illness, physical or emotional stress, fatigue, poor nutrition, certain medications, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or other factors.
Once reactivated, the virus travels along nerve fibers, usually settling in fairly isolated areas of skin on one side of the body. The infected area of the body usually has severe pain, itching, redness, numbness, and the development of a rash. The rash on the skin develops into small, fluid-filled blisters called vesicles. Within a few days of their appearance on the skin, the vesicles break open and form scabs. In severe cases, the rash can leave permanent scars, long standing pain, numbness, and skin discoloration.
How Does Herpes Zoster Affect The Eyes?
The eyes are sometimes affected by herpes zoster. This is due to the fact that the eyes are connected to nerves that may be infected with the herpes zoster virus.
The usual shingles rash can spread from an involved area of the forehead or cheek to the upper or lower eyelids. Shingles may cause redness of the conjunctiva (the mucous membrane covering the white of the eye). It can also cause small scratches or scarring of the cornea. The scratches on the cornea may increase the risk of bacterial infection in the eye. Shingles may also cause inflammation inside the eye, known as iritis or uveitis. It can also affect the optic nerve or the retina.
Herpes zoster infections of the eye can lead to redness, swelling, pain, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision. Severe or repeated episodes of herpes zoster infection are associated with other eye conditions, including glaucoma, scarring inside the eye, and cataract formation.
Are Herpes Zoster Infections Contagious?
Transmission of virus from patients with herpes zoster to produce chickenpox has occurred, but occurs less frequently than transmission of virus from patients with chickenpox. Localized herpes zoster requires secretion precautions to guard against spreading of infection by direct contact with secretions from vesicles and from secretion-contaminated articles.
How Are Herpes Zoster Eye Infections Treated?
Treatment of the symptoms of shingles through compresses and pain relievers is usually recommended by doctors. Lubricating eyedrops or antibiotic eye drops may aso be prescribed.
The use of antiviral medications may be recommended by your doctor. The medication most commonly prescribed is acyclovir. Occasionally, steroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation.
By its very nature, herpes zoster infections are prone to return from time to time, especially when the immune system is weakened. Early diagnosis and treatment is important to minimize the symptoms and reduce the risk of complications that may compromise vision.
Posted by Dinah on May 5, 2008, at 16:29:22
In reply to New DX: herpes zoster/shingles, posted by Poet on May 5, 2008, at 11:22:18
:( My dad had shingles and I know how much pain they caused him. I'm glad you got the proper diagnosis and treatment so that you can feel better soon.
Posted by Phillipa on May 5, 2008, at 17:11:49
In reply to Re: New DX: herpes zoster/shingles » Poet, posted by Dinah on May 5, 2008, at 16:29:22
Should work really fast now that the mystery is solved. Bet it's better in 24 hours. Love Phillipa
Posted by llurpsienoodle on May 6, 2008, at 23:46:14
In reply to Re: New DX: herpes zoster/shingles » Dinah, posted by Phillipa on May 5, 2008, at 17:11:49
I've gotten shingles twice in my little life. It's very unpleasant for me. Shingles near your eye can be associated with more complications, so make sure that you follow dr.'s orders. Keep us posted?
-Ll
Posted by Poet on May 7, 2008, at 13:35:39
In reply to Re: New DX: herpes zoster/shingles » Phillipa, posted by Phillipa on May 5, 2008, at 12:46:43
Hi Phillipa,
Thank you for the shingles info. The eye doctor found some minor irritation on my right eye cornea, but said it's okay to wear my contacts in a few days. I have eye drops to put in four times a day and I see him again on the 16th.
I honestly felt like a leper at his office. The waiting area was filled with senior citizens and they were worried I was contageous so they stuck me in an exam room for 45 minutes. Honstly, it's not like I was going up to people and saying wanna touch my scabs?
I hope this clears up quickly, but I know it can take weeks.
Poet
Posted by Poet on May 7, 2008, at 13:39:32
In reply to Re: New DX: herpes zoster/shingles » Poet, posted by Dinah on May 5, 2008, at 16:29:22
Hi Dinah,
My forehead and right side of my nose near my eye feels like constant pressure: like the veins are throbbing. It's the only way I can describe it. I scratched the scabs off last night, which may not be good, but I can cover the sores with makeup for my interview.
I saw Dr. Clueless this week and she first thought I fell and hit my head, then realized what it was and said it must be stress induced. Eye doctor said the same thing. What's odd is I don't feel anymore stressed than usual.
I go back to the nurse practitioner on Monday and the eye doctor again on the 16th.
Poet
Posted by Poet on May 7, 2008, at 13:43:39
In reply to Re: New DX: herpes zoster/shingles » Phillipa, posted by llurpsienoodle on May 6, 2008, at 23:46:14
Hi Ll,
The eye doctor prescribed eye drops to put in four times a day. I see him again on the 16th. It's okay to wear my contacts again so I'm lucky that the cornea damage isn't too bad. Though my eye is flaming red.
Sorry you've had shingles, they truly are a pain.
Poet
Posted by Phillipa on May 7, 2008, at 19:10:27
In reply to Re: New DX: herpes zoster/shingles » llurpsienoodle, posted by Poet on May 7, 2008, at 13:43:39
Poet so glad the mystery is solved and will have a good outcome. I can imagine the seniors running for cover. Must have been some humor in that but insulting to you also. Just glad you will be well once again. Stress seems to trigger most illnesses that would not show up take eczema, my thyroid wacking out. Bet your stressor is the job situation. And good luck on Wednesday. Love Phillipa
Posted by Poet on May 10, 2008, at 14:38:39
In reply to Re: New DX: herpes zoster/shingles » Poet, posted by Phillipa on May 7, 2008, at 19:10:27
It's like I itch under my skin. I scratch, but can't reach it. Argh. My scabs/shingles/pox look better, but man the itching. Not to mention the throbbing vein running past my nose up into my scalp. This sucks.
Poet
Posted by Phillipa on May 10, 2008, at 20:12:29
In reply to Iching and numbness, posted by Poet on May 10, 2008, at 14:38:39
Maybe the itching means it is healing don't know did you google signs of healing or any meds to help. But since it involves the nerves that is deeper than the skin. Sorry so painful and itching is horrible. Love Phillipa
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