Living with RA for 26 years is no small feat, and it's completely understandable to feel desperate when new or worsening symptoms appear. Yes, RA absolutely can affect the toes this way — it's actually one of the more common areas impacted.
What you're describing — swelling, redness, visible blood vessels, and pain in the Show Full Answer
Living with RA for 26 years is no small feat, and it's completely understandable to feel desperate when new or worsening symptoms appear. Yes, RA absolutely can affect the toes this way — it's actually one of the more common areas impacted.
What you're describing — swelling, redness, visible blood vessels, and pain in the toes — can be related to a few RA-related things:
- Flare-related inflammation in the small toe joints, which RA commonly targets
- Telangiectasia — widened or visible blood vessels near the skin surface, which is associated with RA
- Splinter hemorrhages — burst tiny blood vessels beneath the skin, which can appear as dark or reddish marks and are seen in people with RA
- Rheumatoid vasculitis — inflammation of small blood vessels that can cause redness, tingling, and reduced blood flow to the toes Flare duration varies greatly from person to person. Some flares resolve in days, others can last weeks or even longer, especially in someone with long-standing RA. Six weeks is not unusual, unfortunately.
It's really important to go back to your rheumatologist if symptoms are worsening or not improving. As a myRAteam member once shared, "Stay on top of the doctors, and if you're not feeling better, let them know. It's a constant battle to find what helps, but don't give up." In the meantime, some myRAteam members have found relief with home remedies for sore, swollen feet and toes:
- Soaking feet in warm water with Epsom salts
- Applying tea tree oil or lavender oil after drying
- Wearing comfortable, well-fitted footwear to reduce pressure on sore toes
These won't cure the flare but may ease some discomfort while you wait for treatment to take effect. Regarding the visible blood vessels specifically — it's worth describing these in detail to your rheumatologist, as some vascular changes associated with RA do warrant closer monitoring. Don't hesitate to push for answers if you feel something isn't being fully addressed. You know your body best after 26 years.
Hang in there — you're doing the right things by seeking help.
August 7
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