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Thanks so much  to the 30 people who responded. Especially those who offered other relief measures:  Benadryl, Lederkyn, Dermovate and Witch Hazel were mentioned.  A friend of mine also has had success taking lysine when she has virus-related sores.  

Many people suggested the bumps were shingles. 

An equal number of people, those with DH, said that the onset was gradual, and some, though not all, had experienced similar symptoms.

Other explanations offered were:  eczema, high cortisol level, mites, other food sensitivities, fibromyalgia, and another virus.   Several people reported that their skin problems were stress-related, worse in the winter time, and particularly at night, as are mine.  

 Many people recommended seeing a dermatologist . One person suggested looking into the possibility of consulting by camera with a dermatologist at the Oregon Health Sciences University.

Another friend, a chiropractor/fitness trainer ,recently attended a seminar on sleep deprivation.  She theorized that the itching could be a consequence rather than a cause of sleeplessness (or both - a viscious cycle) and gave me tips for improving the quality of sleep.  

Thanks again for all the sympathy and advice!  Nancy in So. Oregon  

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