Does this look like it needs medical attention

[Haveyoueverseenthis]

Hi

A family member has discovered what was initially an itchy red blotch but has now turned into this. It’s painful, it’s on upper arm. Anybody have any knowledge on what this could be?

They are going to ring NHS24 hopefully

Looks like a burn but you would think they would have noticed doing that. Has it just come out of nowhere? Definitely needs looking at.

How quickly has it developed into that?

Could it be shingles?

Impetigo?

@Hellocatshome not a burn, it started as an itchy blotch and has turned into this now. Could it a bite?

Husband responds to wasp stings like this

Spider bite?

Spider bites can blister like this. Or contact with certain plants. It does need to be seen. Has the person been gardening or anything like that ?

@Daisythecat15 overnight, yesterday it was just like a graze

Looks a bit like a spider bite I once reacted to

Yes, it should be looked at because you have no idea what it is.

@SirVixofVixHall no gardening but loads of windows have been open at home and it would be possible for a bug to have gotten in

My shingles rash started like this on one side of my torso - I had a an ache in that side the day before

it then got progressively worse

https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/impetigo
Bullous impetigo sounds similar

@Namechangedforthis25 oh no, did you get it seen to and what was the cure?

I'd say since it's come up so quickly and is painful, yes it definitely needs looking at. Your judgement whether it needs 111 tonight or GP in the morning.

@Daisythecat15 Yes that’s the thing, GP in morning or get it seen tonight if NHS advises a visit to the hospital

Definitely looks like shingles to me.

Do they have any other symptoms?

Looks very like a cluster of midge/mozzie bites and a bad reaction. I get similar most years. My legs are just a treat when abroad if i miss an inch of skin with the insect repellant spray

Actually on second look it could be shingles as there are smaller blisters nearby. Depending on the age of the person would depend how urgent treatment is needed for shingles. I was recently told they don't give antivirals to young people (I dont know what they class as young) anymore.

It looks definitely like shingles. Doc can give antiviral for this and need painkillers if sore. Pharmacy can give solutions eg calamine to dry up.

Have you touched some giant hog weed?

I would draw around the red, raised area beyond the blisters too, as that needs to be kept an eye on.

I agree. Looking beyond the blisters there's a red ring that has formed and the size of that needs watching. I'd draw around it with pen.

Ouch, I've had bites come up like that before. A pharmacist might be able to help.