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Does RA cause a red " mask"?

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Rheumatoid Arthritis
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Posted 3/17/2011 11:49 PM (GMT 0)
Does RA cause a red "mask" (not a butterfly shape) on the face and chest? It follows my hairline and jawline like a bad foundation line. I also have a big blotch on my chest. It looks like I have a sunburn (enough that people comment on it) but it continues through the winter, doesn't fade away, but can get worse at times. I have really fair skin, no acne (I know the diffrence) and doesn't look like roseola patches.
I have had it since shortly after I was just Dx with RA.
I stay out of the sun since my skin will burn whenever in direct sunlight, even if I have sunscreen on.
I would really like to figure it out because if possable I would really like to get rid of it.
Posted 3/19/2011 2:50 AM (GMT 0)
_Christina, I dont really have an answer for you, but another question for you. I know that with the meds my rhuemy put me on I was told to stay outta the sun as it will increase chances of sunburn etc., I was told to use more sunscreen but also to stay outta the sun and stay in shade as much as possible. Maybe your meds are the cause of your "redness" and intolerance to the sun? just a suggestion. Maybe talk to a physician,or your rhuemy or pharmacist about the meds?  There are many more "knowledgable" people on here that may have an answer to your question. Sorry I am not much help. I am fairly new to the whole RA thing and just trying to get a grasp on my experiences and what to expect. Good Luck.
Posted 3/19/2011 4:21 PM (GMT 0)
I have had that "flush" on my chest for years. Even before my RA. My doctor at the time I reported it said it was from watching my kids plat sports for so many years. I don't know about that. I also think I read somewhere that it is a sign of high cholesterol which I do have but I'm not sure my memory is serving me.
Posted 3/22/2011 5:42 PM (GMT 0)
I'm not sure either, but when I go off of my MTX, I get that rashy look on my cheeks etc and it looks like a terrible sunburn.  As long as I stay on my MTX my skin is clear.
Posted 3/27/2011 1:51 AM (GMT 0)
Christina,
Did you ever figure out the redness? I've got it too, just like you said. I'm waiting to find out if I have RA or lupus.
I've even resorted to carrying around a large umbrella to protect myself from the sun in case I'm sun sensitive.
Posted 4/2/2011 7:41 AM (GMT 0)
Nope, not gone away and no answer so far. I am getting a 2nd opinion from a 2nd rheumy on May 16 and I will be asking all sorts of questions, that one included. If I get an answer I will post it here.
Posted 4/2/2011 2:34 PM (GMT 0)
Thank you.
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