Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. While joint-related symptoms are the most common, some individuals with RA may also develop skin rashes as part of their condition.

So, what kinds of skin issues can arise from rheumatoid arthritis, and how can they be managed? Let’s explore the details.

Understanding Skin Rashes in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that leads to persistent inflammation in the joints, particularly in the fingers, hands, wrists, and toes. One distinguishing feature of RA is that it typically affects the same joints on both sides of the body.

However, beyond joint-related symptoms, some individuals with RA, especially those who have had the disease for an extended periodmay also experience skin rashes and other dermatological issues.

RA-related rashes can appear in various forms, including:

• Nodules or plaques
• Painful red rashes, typically on the legs
• Papules, which are cyst-like skin lesions
• Bruises with a purple hue

Types of skin rashes and conditions linked to rheumatoid arthritis are:

Vasculitis

Vasculitis is inflammation of the blood vessels, particularly the arteries that supply blood to the skin, nerves, and internal organs. If left untreated, this condition can weaken blood vessels and impair circulation, increasing the risk of oxygen deprivation in affected areas.

Symptoms of rheumatoid vasculitis include:

• Sores or skin discoloration around the fingertips and nails
• Deep ulcers on the feet
• Skin rashes or nodules
• Pain in the hands, fingers, feet, or toes
• Bruising
• Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet
• Inflammation of the whites of the eyes (scleritis)

Palmar Erythema

Palmar erythema is a reddish rash on the palms of the hands, caused by dilated blood vessels. This skin condition is one of the possible dermatological manifestations of rheumatoid arthritis.

Palindromic Rheumatism

Palindromic rheumatism is a form of arthritis that leads to sudden joint swelling, often accompanied by a red or purplish rash around the affected area. These flare-ups may last for hours or even days before subsiding.

Rheumatoid Nodules

Although not technically rashes, rheumatoid nodules are hard lumps that develop beneath the skin in some RA patients. These nodules affect about 1 in 4 to 5 people with the condition. They tend to be round in shape and can range in size from a pea to as large as a lemon. Rheumatoid nodules often develop in pressure-prone areas, such as the elbows, ankles, heels, and fingers.

Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis-Related Skin Rashes

Managing RA-related rashes involves treating the underlying autoimmune condition. Rheumatoid arthritis treatments can help reduce skin-related symptoms over time. However, in cases where rashes are severe, doctors may prescribe antibiotics to prevent infections and/or steroids to reduce inflammation and flare-ups.

That said, certain medications may increase skin sensitivity to sunlight, making sun protection essential. Individuals with RA should use sunscreen and skincare products formulated for sensitive skin.

If you experience worsening symptoms, such as bluish discoloration around the wounds, increased redness or swelling, persistent or worsening pain, and a foul odor from a wound, it is highly recommended to seek medical attention immediately.

For further inquiries about rheumatoid arthritis treatments, you can consult a specialist through the Ai Care application, available for download on the App Store and Play Store.

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