Overview
Flares cause burning pain, redness, and heat, often triggered by warmth, exercise, or standing.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Burning red feet or hands
- Red, warm, swollen skin
Less common
- Swelling
When to get medical care
Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayNew or worse symptoms, or symptoms with fever.
See a doctor soonSymptoms that last or keep coming back.
Causes
Nerves, blood vessels.
Who is more likely to get it
- Adults over 40: Most common
- People with blood disorders like polycythemia: Higher risk
Possible complications
- Skin damage: From soaking feet in ice water
Diagnosis
A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.
The exam
A physical exam.
Tests
Tests, if needed:
- Exam:
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.
Self-care
- Use fans
- Avoid heat triggers
- Cool skin with fans
- Raise the legs
Prevention
To lower your risk or prevent problems:
- Avoid heat triggers
Which doctor treats this
- Urgent care or the ER can treat it first. For minor problems, your primary care provider can help.
- They may send you to a dermatologist or a vascular specialist.
Living with it
Support groups and helplines
- Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Free NIH information on rare diseases, including where to find experts and patient groups.
- National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD): Patient groups, help finding care, and aid programs for rare diseases.
Back to school, work, or sports
- Most people can go to school or work. Keep the wound clean and covered.
- Avoid pools and hot tubs until the skin heals.
Children, pregnancy, and older adults
- Adults: Can be linked to blood disorders.
Outlook
Treatment eases flares.
Treatment helps many.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
What to bring
- A list of your medicines and supplements
- Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse
Questions to ask
- What's causing this?
- What treatment do you recommend?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Burning red hands or feet (erythromelalgia)
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.