What should you know about tiny red itchy bumps?

Dry, cracked, irritated skin can occur with asteatotic eczema or atopic dermatitis. A reaction after a new soap, cosmetic, metal, or fabric may fit contact dermatitis. Raised areas that come and go can be hives. Moist skin folds with soreness may occur with a skin yeast infection. Very itchy bumps that are worse at night, especially among close contacts, need assessment for scabies. Thick scale can occur with psoriasis, while flatter persistent bumps may have another inflammatory cause such as lichen planus.

Wash gently with lukewarm water, apply a plain moisturizer, and keep nails short. Stop newly introduced fragranced products and avoid heat, tight clothing, and scratching. Do not share towels, bedding, or clothing if scabies or infection is possible; arrange an assessment instead of treating household contacts at random.

Note when the bumps began, where they started, whether they move, and whether anyone else is itchy. These details help a clinician select treatment and decide whether close contacts need advice.

Get emergency help for itchy bumps with swelling of the lips or tongue, breathing difficulty, faintness, or widespread blistering. Seek prompt care for fever, rapidly spreading redness, severe pain, pus, facial or eye involvement, or a rash that is rapidly worsening. Arrange review when itch disrupts sleep, persists despite removing a trigger, or affects several people at home.

Does the distribution suggest eczema, a contact reaction, hives, infection, or scabies? Should I avoid a particular product or treat close contacts? Which symptom changes mean I should return sooner?