[56F] Experiencing joint inflammation, skin changes, and severe itching
Question
Patient Description
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on the information you've provided, possible conditions that could explain your symptoms include:
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Psoriatic Arthritis: This is a type of arthritis that affects some people who have psoriasis — a condition that features red patches of skin topped with silvery scales. Most people develop psoriasis first and are later diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis, but the joint problems can sometimes begin before skin patches appear.
- Treatment typically involves medications to reduce inflammation and slow the progression of the disease.
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Rheumatoid Arthritis: You've mentioned that you already have this condition. The symptoms you're experiencing could be a flare-up of your RA. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that can affect more than just your joints. In some people, the condition can damage a wide variety of body systems, including the skin, eyes, lungs, heart and blood vessels.
- Treatment focuses on controlling symptoms and preventing joint damage.
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Eczema (Dermatitis): A condition that makes your skin red and itchy. It's common in children but can occur at any age. Eczema is long lasting (chronic) and tends to flare periodically. It may be accompanied by asthma or hay fever.
- Treatment for eczema can include avoiding harsh soaps, moisturizing your skin regularly, and applying medicated creams or ointments.
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Vasculitis: This is an inflammation of your blood vessels. It causes changes in the blood vessel walls including thickening, weakening, narrowing and scarring. These changes can restrict blood flow, resulting in organ and tissue damage. There are many types of vasculitis, and most of them are rare.
- Treatment aims to reduce inflammation with medications such as corticosteroids and, if needed, immune suppressants.
What you can do
It's important to consult a healthcare professional about your symptoms. They can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can try the following to manage your symptoms:
- Avoid scratching your skin, as this can make your symptoms worse.
- Apply a moisturizer to your skin regularly. This can help to reduce dryness and itching.
- Try to identify any triggers for your symptoms, such as certain activities or foods, and avoid them if possible.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers may help to reduce your joint pain. However, since you're allergic to NSAIDs, it's important to choose a product that doesn't contain these ingredients.
What you should look out for
Seek immediate medical attention if:
- Your symptoms worsen or don't improve with self-care measures.
- You experience severe pain.
- You develop new symptoms, such as a fever or unexplained weight loss.
Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.
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9 mo ago