How common is reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome?
Reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome is quite rare. It can occur at any age but is most common between the ages of 40 and 60. It occurs slightly more often among females than among males. It has been reported in children and young adults. Please discuss with your doctor for further information.
What are the symptoms of reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome?
Acute (three to six months): burning, flushing, blanching, sweating, swelling, pain, and tenderness. This stage can show early X-ray changes of patchy bone thinning.
Dystrophic (three to six months): early skin changes of shiny, thickened skin and contracture with persistent pain, but diminished swelling and flushing.
Atrophic (may be long-standing): loss of motion and function of the involved hand or foot with contracture (flexed scarring process), and thinning of the fatty layers under the skin. X-ray can show significant osteoporosis.
What causes reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome?
What increases my risk for reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome?
How is reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome diagnosed?
Your doctor might order an MRI to look inside your body, specifically at your tissues, for noticeable changes.
How is reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome treated?
What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can help me manage reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome?
Cool, moist applications to the affected areas can provide some relief of burning symptoms.
Gradual exercise can help prevent contractures.
Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Type 1, CRPS). https://www.medicinenet.com/reflex_sympathetic_dystrophy_syndrome/article.htm#reflex_sympathetic_dystrophy_rsd_facts. Accessed August 9, 2018.
What Is Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome? https://www.webmd.com/brain/what-is-reflex-sympathetic-dystrophy-syndrome. Accessed August 9, 2018.
Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome. https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/reflex-sympathetic-dystrophy-syndrome/. Accessed August 9, 2018.