If your feet become inflamed or experience a burning sensation triggered by warmth, you may be dealing with erythromelalgia.

Erythromelalgia is a disorder affecting the arteries that leads to pain and inflammation in the feet. Symptoms can vary from mild discomfort to debilitating pain and can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. While this condition can affect individuals of all ages, it is most commonly seen in people aged 20 or older.

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Causes of Erythromelalgia

Erythromelalgia can be classified as either primary or secondary.

Primary Erythromelalgia

This form of the disorder is not associated with any other underlying condition, and the cause is often unknown. In rare cases, primary erythromelalgia can be inherited and may present during childhood.

Secondary Erythromelalgia

This form occurs due to an underlying condition. The most common causes include myeloproliferative disorders (such as polycythemia vera or thrombocythemia), which affect the bone marrow. Erythromelalgia can sometimes appear two or three years before a myeloproliferative disorder is diagnosed. Other conditions that may lead to secondary erythromelalgia include:

  • Certain medications (e.g., bromocriptine, used for Parkinson’s disease)
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Gout
  • Hypertension
  • Lead poisoning
  • Lichen sclerosus
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
  • Spinal cord disorders
  • Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
  • Venous insufficiency

Symptoms of Erythromelalgia

In both primary and secondary forms, symptoms are typically triggered by warmth and may include:

  • Inflammation
  • Itching that progresses to burning pain
  • Redness
  • Warm, flushed skin

Episodes can last from a few minutes to several hours, and symptoms may range from mild to severe. In some cases, the pain can be so intense that it becomes debilitating, preventing individuals from walking during an episode.

Treatment of Erythromelalgia

During an episode of erythromelalgia, it is essential to rest and elevate your feet. Cooling the feet can help alleviate symptoms. You can use an ice pack or soak your feet in cold water. Avoid warming the affected area, as heat can worsen the symptoms.

If secondary erythromelalgia is caused by an underlying condition (such as a myeloproliferative disorder), aspirin may provide symptom relief. Managing the root cause of secondary erythromelalgia is critical in preventing future episodes.

To determine whether you have primary or secondary erythromelalgia, it is essential to consult your physician for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.