A variety of illnesses, conditions and different types of animal bites can cause large red bumps to appear on your legs. It’s important to watch and record when the bumps occurred and what you were doing when they appeared. Record the size of the bumps when you first noticed them and watch to see if they grow larger.
Types
Depending upon the cause of the large red bumps, they could be caused from insect bites such as chiggers, or they could be contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis occurs when your skin is exposed to something it’s allergic to, such as poison ivy or poison oak. Soaps, cleansers and detergents can also cause contact dermatitis. Chicken pox could also cause large red bumps to appear on your legs, but may also affect the rest of your body as well.
Effects
If the bumps are caused by chicken pox, contact dermatitis or insect bites, they will usually itch. The itching sensation can range from moderate to very severe, depending upon how your body reacts to the cause. Not all rashes will cause itching, it just depends on how your skin reacts to the allergy. If the bumps are caused by chicken pox or poison ivy, the bumps may appear as blisters. If they are busted open by scratching them, clear or yellow pus may ooze from the site. Typically, chicken pox will cause you to have a fever; whereas, insect bites or an allergic reaction would not cause a fever.
Prevention/Solution
If the itching sensation tempts you to scratch more than you can withstand, MedlinePlus recommends an oral antihistamine to help ease itchiness. Taking an oatmeal bath can also help relieve itchy skin. Depending upon the cause of the bumps, you can also try over-the-counter anti-itch medications made especially for insect bites and chickenpox. Always seek physician approval prior to using any over-the-counter medications on any type of rash, as certain medications can cause interactions with prescription medications or worsen your condition.
Warning
Do not scratch the bumps, it can cause the rash to spread to other areas of your body or cause a secondary infection, according to MedlinePlus. A secondary infection could result in a staph infection or other bacterial infection. Scratching can also cause the blisters to leave scars. If you begin to notice other symptoms with the bumps, such as difficulty breathing, seek medical care right away. This could be a severe allergic reaction.
Considerations
Trim your nails very short to prevent scratching. If you are hiking or camping in the woods, wear long pants or high boots to cover your legs. Wearing the appropriate gear can help protect your legs from insect bites and snakebites. Stay away from unfamiliar plants.
