Yes, itching can absolutely happen with RA, even though it's not considered a classic symptom. Many myRAteam members report experiencing itchy skin patches, rashes, and hives — and it can show up on the joints or other areas of the body.
There are a few common reasons why itching occurs with RA:
- RA medications — DMARDs like Show Full Answer
Yes, itching can absolutely happen with RA, even though it's not considered a classic symptom. Many myRAteam members report experiencing itchy skin patches, rashes, and hives — and it can show up on the joints or other areas of the body.
There are a few common reasons why itching occurs with RA:
- RA medications — DMARDs like methotrexate, biologics, and JAK inhibitors (like Rinvoq) can all cause itching as a side effect
- RA inflammation — Swelling around joints can trigger itchiness, and chronic hives are associated with inflammatory autoimmune conditions like RA
- Complications of RA — Rheumatoid vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels) can cause itchy skin, and people with RA also have a slightly higher risk of kidney disease, which can cause itching It's worth being cautious about scratching too much — it can lead to an itch-scratch cycle that causes more inflammation and even lasting skin damage. A myRAteam member shared that scratching around their knuckles caused more pronounced bumps to appear afterward.
If you're experiencing itching, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor. They can help figure out whether it's related to your RA, your medications, or something else — and point you toward the right relief.
October 4
Continue with Facebook
Continue with Email
Join
Your Privacy Choices
