Erythromelalgia is a condition in which people experience episodes of pain, heat, and redness in their limbs. While the symptoms may appear in any part of the body, it most commonly affects the feet and hands.
Depending on where the symptoms occur, the erythromelalgia may last for days or even weeks. During an erythromelalgia episode, a person can experience extreme heat, redness, and tender, mottled skin. These flares can interfere with a person’s daily activities. Fortunately, there are several treatment options for erythromelalgia. The best way to control the symptoms is to avoid certain factors that trigger a flareup. Some of these factors include alcohol, spicy foods, and hot or cold weather.
One of the first steps to take to prevent an erythromelalgia flareup is to make sure that the room you are in is not too warm. If you are in an area where it is too warm, try to stay inside or use a fan. You can also soak the painful area in ice water. This can help to soothe the limb.
If your doctor believes you have erythromelalgia, you will likely receive medications to treat the condition. They may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin. However, the medications may not be enough to stop the symptom flares. It is best to talk with your doctor about your options. Oftentimes, it is better to get a referral to a specialist who can prescribe appropriate medications for your erythromelalgia.
Some individuals with erythromelalgia have a genetic mutation. In this case, the faulty gene can cause the nerve cells known as nociceptors to transmit pain signals to the brain. A person who has a faulty gene can pass this defect on to their children, who can later develop erythromelalgia.
Another possible cause of erythromelalgia is a connective tissue disorder. If a person has Fabry disease, he or she may have a higher chance of developing erythromelalgia. Additionally, if a person has a family history of erythromelalgia, they may want to consult with a geneticist. There are several genetic tests that can be done to confirm the inherited condition.
Aside from physical therapy, a mental health professional can offer invaluable support to patients with erythromelalgia. Patients with this condition can feel isolated, so a therapist can help them cope with the changes in their lives.
People with erythromelalgia can live long, healthy lives. It is rare for someone to have a life-threatening condition like erythromelalgia. Nevertheless, if the disease is severe, a patient can suffer from painful ulcers and gangrene. To reduce the risk of these complications, it is important to seek immediate medical attention if you are experiencing a symptom flareup.
As the symptoms of erythromelalgia vary in intensity and frequency, it can be difficult for a person to determine if he or she has the condition. A biopsy is a common procedure to diagnose the disorder. However, a biopsy does not reveal the precise cause of erythromelalgia. Other tests can be performed to find out if the disease is idiopathic or caused by another condition.
