Erythromelalgia is a rare but painful condition characterized by episode of redness, warmth, and burning pain usually in extremities like hand and feet. Although this disease is not life-threatening, but it can significantly affect the quality of life of a person. The person who can suffer from this condition can clearly understand it.
In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and triggers of erythromelalgia. We also discuss the evidence based natural management tips to minimize its affects.
What is erythromelalgia?
Erythromelalgia, also known as Mitchell’s disease, is a condition that cause episode of intense pain in certain parts of the body, but the pain is more common in hands and feet.
“Erythro” meaning red
“Melos” meaning limb
“Algia” meaning pain
This condition can last from minutes to hours and are typically triggered by heat, exercise and stress.
Who is affected by erythromelalgia?
Actually, erythromelalgia is a rare condition that affects approximately 1 in 100,000 people worldwide. This condition can occurs in the people of almost any age but it is more common in middle age people. Both the men and women can develop the condition, though women may be slightly more susceptible.
Symptoms of erythromelalgia
The symptoms of this condition or disease can vary from person to person in intensity and frequency. These symptoms include:
Redness in the Affected Areas: Redness is the most common symptom of this condition. Actually, the skin turns bright red or even purplish during flare-ups. This condition happens due to increased blood flow in particular area.
Burning Pain: A sharp pain, with burning is the main symptom.
Warmth in the skin: The area affected with this condition feel unusually warm to the touch, caused by increased blood flow circulation.
Swelling: Swelling is also the main symptom of this condition. Some people experience severe swellings which leads to discomfort .
Sensitivity to heat: A small amount of heat or minor increase in temperature can trigger the symptoms, thus make warm environment challenging for those people who have erythromelalgia.
Causes of erythromelalgia
The exact and main cause of this condition in unknown, but researchers have identified several contribution factors:
Primary Erythromelalgia: This form is often genetic and linked to mutations in the SCN9A gene, which affects nerve function.
It is more likely to occur in younger individuals.
Secondary Erythromelalgia: This form occurs as a symptom of another medical condition, such as:
- Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
- Neurological disorders (e.g., multiple sclerosis)
- Blood disorders (e.g., polycythemia vera)
- Diabetes or peripheral neuropathy
Nervous System Dysregulation: An overactive nervous system may increase sensitivity to pain and temperature changes, triggering episodes.
Common Triggers for Erythromelalgia
Understanding the common triggers of this condition is necessary for managing it.
Heat Exposure: Heat exposure is the most common trigger. Heat exposure such as warm weather, hot baths, or heated environments often exacerbate the symptoms.
Physical Activity: Intense physical activities such as exercise or prolonged standing can worsen the burning sensation.
Stress: Emotional stress is also a known trigger for many individuals.
Tight Clothing or Shoes: Tight clothing or anything that restricts the flow of the blood can provoke symptoms.
Natural Management Tips
While there are no cures for this disease, but the natural management strategies can help in reducing the frequency and severity of symptoms. Here are some natural management tips:
1. Cool the affected areas
Cooling is very effective in treating such types of conditions. Actually, cooling reduce the inflammation and soothes the burning sensation.
Tips:
Soak you hand and feet in cold water during flare-ups.
Use cooling gels.
2. Identify and avoid triggers
When you know the triggers you can easily avoid it.
Tips:
Keep a symptom diary to track triggers like food, activities, or stressors.
Avoid hot environments and wear breathable clothing.
3. Practice stress management
Stress is also the main trigger of this disease or condition. So, its essential for you to staying calm.
Tips:
Practice mindfulness meditation such as deep breathing or yoga.
Engage yourself in relaxing activities like painting, or reading.
4. Dietary adjustments
An anti-inflammatory diet can improve blood vessel health and reduce symptoms.
Tips:
Eat balanced diet such as food rich in Omega-3 fatty acids.
Include antioxidants from fruits and vegetables.
Limit spicy foods and alcohol.
5. Hydration
Staying hydrated improves circulation and prevents blood thickening.
Tips:
Drink enough water.
Avoid sugary drinks.
6. Exercise Moderately
Gentle and simple exercise improve overall circulation without overheating the body.
Tips:
Do exercises like swimming, walking, or yoga.
Avoid exercises that increase the temperature of the body.
7. Wear appropriate clothing
Breathable and loose fitting clothes are crucial in this condition. Actually, loose fitting clothes helps regulate the temperature of the body.
Tips:
Choose natural fabrics like cotton or linen.
Avoid tight shoes and instead of tight shoes go for sandals or open-toe footwear during warm months.
8. Topical Remedies
Natural ointments or creams can have the ability to smooth the skin and reduces inflammation.
Tips:
Use aloe vera gel for cooling affects.
Avoid heavily fragrance products to prevent irritation.
8. Regular foot and hand care
Proper care has the ability to prevent infections and maintaining the skin. Regular care can keep you skin healthy.
Tips:
Moisturize you skin regularly.
Keep nails trimmed to avoid injury to sensitive areas.
9. Natural supplements
Certain supplements may improve circulation and reduce inflammation.
Tips:
Magnesium: Magnesium helps in relaxing the blood vessels.
Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory compound.
Vitamin D: Supports nerves and immune system health.
When to seek medical help
While natural remedies are very helpful, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional if:
- Symptoms become severe.
- New symptoms, such as severe swelling or discoloration, appear.
- Underlying conditions are suspected.
A doctor may recommend new treatments from you which might be very beneficial such as:
- Prescription medications (e.g., gabapentin or aspirin)
- Physical therapy
- Light therapy
Conclusion
Erythromelalgia is a complex condition that requires a multifaceted approach to management. By understanding the causes, symptoms, triggers and natural remedies to manage it, individuals can take control of their health and reduce the impact of flare-ups.
By understanding the causes, symptoms, triggers and natural remedies to manage it, individuals can take control of their health and reduce the impact of flare-ups.