“Doctor, I think I have a skin infection.“I have redness/itching/rash/swelling on my skin.“I’m worried about this skin problem. - #32439

Based on the description of your symptoms – red patches that are itchy, painful, oozing and blistered – it sounds like a condition that may be related to a dosha imbalance. Often, the burning sensation and rash points towards an aggravated Pitta dosha, possibly mixed with Kapha if there’s oozing.

Firstly, it’s crucial to address the underlying cause and it’s advisable to have a clinical examination to confirm diagnosis. Since the ointments used haven’t been effective, consider shifting focus slightly.

In Ayurveda, managing the imbalances requires dietary and lifestyle changes. Start with consuming more cooling and calming foods to pacify Pitta. Include foods high in water content like cucumbers, melons, and green leafy vegetables. Minimize spicy, hot, fermented, and fried foods that worsen Pitta. Drinking Aloe Vera juice or applying Aloe Vera gel topically may help soothe and cool the affected area.

You might also want to try Neem, known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. Prepare a paste with Neem powder mixed with water, apply it on the affected areas, and leave it on for a while before rinsing off gently. Do this once daily.

Try reducing stress as much as possible – since stress can exacerbate Pitta – through meditation, yoga, or simple breathing exercises. Keeping your skin clean and dry is essential; however, avoid excessive washing or scrubbing, as it can worsen the irritation.

If symptoms persist, particularly if the condition continues to spread or intensify, consider consulting an Ayurvedic doctor for a more personalized treatment plan. And be mindful, if there’s significant pain or signs of infection persist, it’s wise to see a dermatologist as soon as possible. This is to rule out any underlying conditions that may require urgent medical intervention.

Your description suggests a skin condition that may be related to imbalances in the pitta dosha, which often manifests as inflammation, redness, and the burning sensation you are experiencing. Considering it’s spreading fast, addressing the underlying imbalance promptly is crucial. Based on Siddha-Ayurvedic principles, here are a few steps you can take:

1. Internal Cleanse: Start with a gentle detoxification to pacify pitta. Taking a decoction of Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) daily can help. Boil one teaspoon of dried Amalaki in two cups of water until reduced to one cup before having it in the morning on an empty stomach.

2. Topical Application: Prepare a paste using turmeric powder and neem leaves. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties, and neem is known for its antimicrobial action. To make the paste, crush fresh neem leaves into a paste and mix it with a pinch of turmeric. Apply this on the affected areas once a day.

3. Dietary Adjustments: Avoid heat-inducing foods like spicy, oily, and fermented items, as they can aggravate pitta. Include cooling foods like cucumber, coriander, and aloe vera juice in your diet.

4. Stress Management: High stress can exacerbate skin issues. Practicing pranayama, particularly cooling breaths like sheetkari or shitali, can be calming and help maintain balance.

5. Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep your system hydrated and support skin metabolism.

6. Clothing: Wear loose, cotton clothing to minimize irritation.

Since the area is large and the symptoms are severe, such as spreading redness and pain, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional promptly. They can provide a precise diagnosis and ensure you’re not experiencing a serious condition needing urgent treatment. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention without delay to rule out bacterial infection or eczema that may require different treatments.