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Does anyone else have problems with itchy scalp and red rash on your scalp. I have had RA for over 8 years and this is new. I am on Rinvoq

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Pittsburgh, PA

I have not had this ever. It is driving me crazy! Is it from meds, RA, OR ANOTHER autoimmune disease?

4 days ago
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Reactions
A myRAteam Member

Thank you! I just got scheduled with dermatology today.

4 days ago
myRAteam

You're definitely not alone in this — scalp itching and rashes are something many people with RA experience, and it can show up even after years of living with the condition. The frustrating part is that there are a few possible causes to untangle.

Here are the most likely culprits:

- Rinvoq (upadacitinib): Itching is Show Full Answer

You're definitely not alone in this — scalp itching and rashes are something many people with RA experience, and it can show up even after years of living with the condition. The frustrating part is that there are a few possible causes to untangle.

Here are the most likely culprits:

- Rinvoq (upadacitinib): Itching is actually a known side effect of JAK inhibitors like Rinvoq. Since this is new for you, it's worth flagging to your doctor right away.
- RA inflammation itself: RA can dry out skin, including the scalp, and inflammation from RA can cause redness and itching.
- Rheumatoid vasculitis: In some cases of long-term RA, inflammation of blood vessels can cause itchy skin — something a rheumatologist can assess. The red rash specifically is worth paying close attention to. A red or scaly scalp can sometimes point to inflammation that a dermatologist or rheumatologist can properly diagnose — sometimes a biopsy is needed to get to the bottom of it.

In the meantime, some myRAteam members have found relief by massaging oils like olive oil or coconut oil into the scalp before showering, or using scalp-specific shampoos for hydration.

That said, since you're on Rinvoq and this is a new symptom, it's really important to contact your doctor soon — especially if the rash is spreading or worsening.

4 days ago
A myRAteam Member

My appointment with dermatology is tomorrow, so we'll see what they say.

3 days ago
A myRAteam Member

Lichen sclerosis, athletes foot, pre cancerous skin lesions. They creams do help me

3 days ago
A myRAteam Member

What do you get from the dermatologist that helps? I've been to multiple dermatologists and the cream or the lotion they prescribe (Clobetasol or Betamethasone) doesn't really help, but just masks the problem. I haven't been able to color my hair for 15 years. My head is hot, red, and itchy most of the time. I have gotten to the point of just keeping my hair wet to keep my scalp cool. I am retired so I am able to wet my hair every 30 minutes. Oh, I had a biopsy about 15 years ago and they said it's seborrheic dermatitis but I don't have the symptoms of that disease. I don't have dandruff. I do have some hair loss. I've had some dermatologists tell me they don't know what it is and one said it's called scalp dysesthesia, which basically means I have symptoms but no obvious underlying disease.

3 days ago (edited)

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