First off - do these images look like EM?

I first noticed at the end of January my feet getting very red after a shower. Then redness randomly in my big toes and the instep of my feet. Sometimes accompanied with a red flushing more generally.

At first my primary dermatologist thought “irritation,” prescribing me various ointments that didn’t help. 

I followed up with my PCP, who asked about cold exposure and chilblains but offered nothing else (telehealth).

Then a second opinion with a new dermatologist this week suggested hives and put me on an antihistamine. Taking Claritin this week I’ve not had much relief. 

Then, out of nowhere, earlier today my second opinion dermatologist called me back after looking more into it. He believes I have EM. 

He said this lines up with me describing how the back of my neck would get hot and flare up at times.

He suggested starting with aspirin and a menthol cream for now and can prescribe other things. We have a follow up in a month. I’ve also left a message at my PCP’s office for a follow up sooner if I can.

What should I know/do at this stage? I get a flare up typically at night, especially if I wear socks.

I’m feeling overwhelmed and defeated. I had surgery in December to remove a thyroid nodule (benign) after fear of cancer. I didn’t even get a month in of that relief before this started up. Now I’m concerned about what looks to be a life long condition with no cure, afraid it will set back my life.

I’ve been feeling stressed a lot lately at work. And of course around my feet wondering what’s up. It seems at this early stage stress and heat are the triggers.

FWIW - to date my blood panels have always been good, without obvious concerns (I get annual work ups for physicals plus had others around my surgery).

Thanks - I appreciate the help as I navigate what’s next. 



Steps for Newly Diagnosed?