Facial rash?

[MissFG]

Hi I'm hypothyroid and my endo has referred me to rheumatology so as yet I've still not been given a diagnosis even though my bloods look like I may have SLE. So waiting several more weeks. However I keep getting a rash on my forehead - itchy burning lumps under the skin which I now have on my chin. I've take antihistermines to see if it will help as it gets worse once I've been in the sun. Do you have any advice please. I know with lupus you can get rashes but I'm not sure what the symptoms are and how they're treated. Many thanks

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK]

Hi MissFG ,

Exposure to UV is a very common trigger of lupus rashes, so it is important to protect yourself as well as possible. We recently published an article on our blog which has loads of advice about this, so I'd recommend reading it - lupusuk.org.uk/coping-with-...

We also have a booklet about skin involvement in lupus which may be useful. You can view and download it from our website here - lupusuk.org.uk/wp-content/u...

If you need more information about lupus, we have a free pack which you can request or download from our website at lupusuk.org.uk/request-info...

[MissFG in reply to Paul_Howard]

Thank you you've been a huge help

[MissFG in reply to Paul_Howard]

Hi Paul I've read the literature. Is there anything I can do fur the rash on my face until I get a diagnosis? Is it worth seeing my doctor today without a diagnosis for treatment for the rash as it is burning and itchy? Or is there something I could get over the counter that may sooth or help the rash go away? Thanks

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK in reply to MissFG]

Hi MissFG ,

Steroid creams tend to be very effective if it is a lupus rash, but often doctors try to avoid their use on the face because they can thin and damage the skin.

It may be worth an appointment with your GP to discuss any options, but they may want to wait until you have a diagnosis for treatment. In the meantime, take all the measures you can to protect yourself from the sun to prevent exacerbating it.