complex regional pain syndrome?

Question

does anyone know if rsd causes infections?

Answer 1

Yes, RSD can cause infections. The most common symptom of RSD is chronic pain, which patients frequently describe as burning or stinging. Patients also suffer from extreme skin sensitivity, so that even clothing is unbearable. Other symptoms include swelling, profuse sweating, nail changes and color and temperature abnormalities at the injury site. Patients may also experience muscle spasms, tremors, weakness, fatigue, skin rashes, frequent infections, fever, headaches and insomnia. In some people, the disease is confined to the affected area, but in as many as 70 percent of patients it spreads to adjacent parts of the body or crosses over to affect the same area of the opposite limb. RSD can also spread to unrelated sites, especially following another injury.

I have this same problem and I've enclosed two web sites where you can learn more about RSD.

Answer 2

Can RSD/CRPS cause infections? No. But it sets up the perfect conditions for severe infections in effected areas. Because blood flow to the skin is often diminished in the effected area, the body's ability to fight off bacteria is diminished. Also, because the skin in the effected area is usually more sensitive and atrophied, bacteria can get in more easily. If you have severe swelling in the effected area, that can make infections very likely and more difficult to treat. As a result, cellulitis (skin infection) can be a real problem for people with RSD.

I've had several infections in my foot and leg, which thankfully responded to aggressive antibiotics. If you suspect that you have an infection in an RSD limb, don't hesitate to see a doctor! Because of circulation problems associated with RSD, the infection may become severe very quickly.

Answer 3

CRPS/RSD can't actually make an infection, but it can make infections worse, but all it causes is swelling, pain, and skin color changes. Good luck!