Are Tiny Red Bumps On My Hands, Arms And Legs Associated With Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Posted on Sat, 10 Mar 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 10 Mar 2018 Answered on

Tue, 19 Mar 2019 Last reviewed on

Question : I noticed small red bumps on my hands, arms and legs. They don't itch but my rheumatoid arthritis is flaring. Is this related to the arthritis?

Answered by Dr. Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi (44 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Red bumps can be related to rheumatoid arthritis.

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

Red bumps can be related to rheumatoid arthritis. This is a sign that the blood vessels are affected and inflammated. This symptom is known as rheumatoid vasculitis.

Some advice that I can give to you is:

-use over the counter anti-inflammatory medication like Tylenol
-you may take prescribed corticosteroids. Consult your doctor about this treatment
-if the bumps are getting infected you can take prescribed antibiotics.
-you can also take antibiotic and steroid ointments for local relief
-get plenty of rest
-eat healthily

You should also see a rheumatologist to treat properly the main cause that is rheumatoid arthritis.

Hope my answer was helpful.

Regards,
Dr. Dorina Gurabardhi, General & Family Physician

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T