Question: What is the cause and treatment for a severe skin
sensitivity with paetechiae. This is a problem that began 10 years
ago and has neither been definitively diagnosed or treated.
Suggestions have been made that it could be either environmental or
from an internal cause. I have provided a brief history and
highlighted signs and symptoms below.
During the winter of 1992 I developed petechiae on my legs and stomach
with very irritated, sensitive skin, though I had no rash or
itchiness. Petechiae, I was told at the time, was blood leaking
through the capillaries in the skin into the surface of the skin. The
petechiae passed and then reappeared about 6 weeks later in April of
1992. After about 2 weeks, these disappeared but the very
uncomfortable skin irritation continued.
During this time I went to several doctors who performed a number of
tests and assessments but no diagnosis was made nor treatment
provided. During the summer of ’92 the problem became more tolerable
but when the cool weather returned in the fall, the problem became
severe again. Dry skin did not appear to be the problem.
Once again during the winter of 1993, I developed petechiae on my legs
only. The very uncomfortable skin sensitivity continued. During a trip
at that time to Florida, I realized I felt better in the warm climate
of the south. That next year, with no treatment or resolution in site,
I relocated to Florida where I live today. I am not free of the skin
sensitivity, but with lighter clothing and warm, humid weather, living
here is much more tolerable.
I have learned in the last ten years that it seems the symptoms are
less with a healthy diet, exclusion of wheat from my diet, and
supplements of vitamin C and multi-vitamins. Since I suspect that this
may be an allergy-like problem, I have also used HEPA filters and
other treatments to reduce mold and dust in my house. Since this
problem began at the time I was doing some work on my home (painting
and sanding plaster walls), some have suggested that I avoid the use
of, and exposure to, chemicals.
Below I have highlighted some of the significant information that
appears associated to this problem.
 Spring 1992 development of seasonal allergies. Allergy
testing done revealed allergens to “early tree”
 Winter 1993, developed petechiae on legs and stomach and very
sensitive skin. It was like wearing wool on sun burnt skin.
 Petechiae passed after a week or two, then returned in April
of same year, with flourishes this time on stomach, legs and upper
arms
 During this time, blood tests revealed low white blood cells,
with other blood counts and cell sizes being irregular. White, odorous
coating on my tongue worsened.
 Winter of 1993 was last time I had petechiae but the skin
sensitivity and low white blood count has continued. I moved to
Florida in the winter of 1994.
 Allergy testing over time has revealed some sensitivity to
molds, wheat and formaldehyde, although results have been somewhat
inconsistent.
 Enlarged lymph node diagnosis 12/97 under left upper arm
 Symptoms are typically worse in dusty, moldy, environments,
in cars with the heat on and after eating wheat or concentrated
sugars. There is never a rash nor is there ever any itchiness.
If you can offer any insights or information that leads to a
resolution of this very uncomfortable and restrictive condition, it
would be very much appreciated. Please email me if any clarification
or elaboration is needed. |
