Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects joints but can also have significant skin manifestations, including rashes, nodules, and other issues. The appearance and severity of these skin problems can indicate the overall severity of the disease. Additionally, medications used to treat RA might also influence skin health.
A common skin manifestation in RA is a rash. For people with light to fair skin tones, this rash typically appears red and scaly due to psoriatic arthritis. However, in cases of severe inflammation, skin thickening and raised areas might replace any discoloration. Beyond rashes, RA can cause other skin issues such as hives, nodules, or vasculitis.
Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include tender, warm, and swollen joints, joint stiffness that worsens in the morning or after periods of inactivity, fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite. Rheumatoid nodules, firm lumps under the skin, are another symptom and are often seen in more severe cases.
Medications for RA, such as Celecoxib (Celebrex), Diclofenac (Voltaren), Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), Ibuprofen, Leflunomide (Arava), and Methotrexate (Rheumatrex), can also cause skin rashes as a side effect.
For more detailed information, you can visit these resources: Medical News Today, Healthline, Mayo Clinic, Verywell Health, Healthline on Livedo Reticularis, and WebMD.
In conclusion, understanding and managing skin issues in rheumatoid arthritis is a crucial aspect of overall disease management. It’s essential to consult healthcare professionals for proper diagnosis and treatment strategies.
