Red bumps on the arms and legs are actually pretty common with lupus — so you're definitely not alone in this! Lupus can cause skin symptoms in many areas of the body, not just the well-known butterfly rash on the face.
Here are some possible reasons this may be happening:
- Cutaneous lupus — Lupus can directly affect the Show Full Answer
Red bumps on the arms and legs are actually pretty common with lupus — so you're definitely not alone in this! Lupus can cause skin symptoms in many areas of the body, not just the well-known butterfly rash on the face.
Here are some possible reasons this may be happening:
- Cutaneous lupus — Lupus can directly affect the skin, causing rashes and lesions on the arms and legs
- Sun sensitivity — Areas exposed to sunlight, like the arms, are especially prone to rashes and irritation
- Lupus flare-ups — Flares can trigger new or worsening skin symptoms
- Infections — People with lupus can be more prone to skin infections due to the immune system and certain medications
- Cysts or lipomas — Harmless fluid-filled pockets or fatty lumps can also appear under the skin It's really important to get any new, growing, or inflamed bumps checked by a rheumatologist or dermatologist. They may want to do a biopsy (a small tissue sample) to rule out cutaneous lupus or other causes.
In the meantime, wearing sunscreen and covering up with long sleeves can help reduce skin irritation from sun exposure.
August 1
Not just sun sensitivity. Fluorescent lights emit UV rays. I had a bad case of lesions on my arms and face. Had not been in the sun. I finally realized that the indoor pool in my building had fluorescent lighting and I spend an hour and a half in there 5 times/ week. Started wearing waterproof SPF 50 and finally got rid of them.
August 1
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