What causes a red rash on the neck that stings and itches?
Ask the doctor
Q. I have a red irritation on my neck. It both stings and feels a little itchy. What can it be?
A. Without seeing the rash, the cause that comes to mind first is a contact dermatitis. Something that touched the skin of your neck likely caused either a direct irritation or an allergic reaction. Irritant contact dermatitis tends to cause the combination of stinging and itching. An allergy usually results in more intense itching.
Other possibilities include:
- a scrape, such as a rug burn
- localized "sunburn" (this is called photosensitive eruption.): something gets on your skin that reacts with sunlight (lime juice can do this). Perfumes also can cause a photosensitive eruption.
- shingles (herpes zoster): the rash usually appears after the pain has been present for one to three days
- a bacterial or fungal skin infection in the early stages.
I would start by considering what may have touched your skin before the irritation started — a necklace, perfume, a metal button on a shirt collar, etc. If you develop fever or start to feel unwell or the symptoms are not improving, contact your doctor.
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About the Author
Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
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