Dermatographism
So what is this “disorder” that 4.2 % of the population suffer from?
Dermatographism falls under the general category of urticaria. It is thought to be a type of allergic reaction.
It is also known as: dermatographic urticaria, dermographism or “skin writing”.
It’s a real nuisance!
These lesions occur after stroking or scratching the skin. It usually fades within 15 to 30 minutes. The underlying cause is not known. Symptoms can be induced by stress (to the patient or to the skin).
It frequently occurs with my oldest son, only when he is very nervous. (Like right before a big presentation in school. If he happens to scratch his face, it welts up within seconds.) I’ve even been called by the school nurse.
No treatment is necessary. It usually resolves within an hour. Antihistamines can be used to prevent it in the first place.
Posted in Disease of the Week
January 11th, 2010 at 11:15 pm
What if you have these breakouts daily? They then become MUCH MORE than a nuisance. It’s astounding to me that the medical community doesnt know moe about this. I’ve had this disorder since new yrs eve of 2008. I was at Disneyland when i first broke out…no stress. Sense then, i have been on zyrtec daily. I also have to take anywhere from 2-5 benadryl daily to help with the breakouts. It got me so tired and depressed my Dr added zoloft. I have had improvement. When i have a breakout, i first feel hot and my skin begins to tingle, the minute i touch it welts come & it feels like i have 1000’s of red ants under my skin biting me. The more I feel that, the more i itch, and the problem worsens. I have had breakouts last for an hour and more. my husband has had to rub anti-itch cream all over my body. I at times want someone to tie my hands up because it burns and itches so bad but the moment i touch it, it just spreads.
I NEED HELP!!!!!!!!!!!! I WANT MY LIFE BACK!!!!!!!!!!! I’m exhausted ALL the time due to the extreme amounts of benadryl i take. PLEASE HELP!