Erythromelalgia
Managing Pain and Inflammation Caused by Vascular Disorders
Understanding and Treating Burning or Flushing Sensations
If your feet become
red, warm, and painful after exposure to heat, you may be experiencing erythromelalgia — a rare vascular disorder that affects the arteries in the feet. The condition causes inflammation, warmth, and burning sensations that can last from a few minutes to several hours. While symptoms may be mild for some, others experience intense pain that limits mobility and daily activity.
Causes of Erythromelalgia
Erythromelalgia can appear as either primary or secondary forms:
- Primary erythromelalgia occurs without another underlying disease and is sometimes inherited. It often begins in adulthood, though rare childhood cases exist.
- Secondary erythromelalgia develops as a result of another condition. It is most commonly linked to myeloproliferative (bone marrow) disorders, such as polycythemia vera or thrombocythemia, but can also be associated with:
- Diabetes mellitus
- Gout
- Hypertension
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Multiple sclerosis
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
- Venous insufficiency
- Lead poisoning or certain medications
Because erythromelalgia may appear several years before an underlying disorder is diagnosed, a medical evaluation is essential to identify the root cause.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms are typically triggered by warmth or physical activity and may include:
- Redness or discoloration of the skin
- Intense burning or tingling pain
- Warmth and swelling in the feet
- Itching or throbbing sensations
Episodes can last minutes or hours and may become more frequent or severe over time.
Treatment and Management
Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and managing underlying conditions:
- Rest and elevate the feet during flare-ups
- Apply cool compresses or ice packs to reduce pain and inflammation
- Avoid heat exposure or activities that trigger symptoms
- Take aspirin or prescribed medications when erythromelalgia is linked to a bone marrow disorder or other vascular condition
- Work with your podiatrist and primary physician to identify and manage any secondary causes
Proper diagnosis is key to preventing complications and reducing the frequency of painful episodes.
If you experience burning or redness in your feet triggered by heat, schedule an appointment with our office for an evaluation. Early detection can help determine whether erythromelalgia is a primary condition or a symptom of another underlying disorder.
Start Your Journey to Wellness Today
Talk With Foot and Ankle Specialist Today!
Ready to take the first step towards healthier, pain-free feet? Contact us to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our foot and ankle services. Our dedicated podiatric team is here to provide personalized care and answer any questions you may have about your lower extremity concerns. Reach out today and let us help you achieve optimal foot health and mobility for an active lifestyle.