Facial Burning Sensation: Need Advice
I am a 39-year-old woman weighing 300 pounds, actively engaged in a calorie deficit for weight reduction. I have refrained from alcohol for the past decade and occasionally use low-nicotine vape products. I have a medical history that includes polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hypertension, and a suspected autoimmune condition. Currently, I am on the following medications: Zoloft, Metoprolol at 50 mg, Prilosec, Zyrtec, and I began taking Hydroxychloroquine at a dosage of 200 mg just five days ago. Recent blood tests indicated elevated levels of sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein, while all other results have returned negative. Approximately a year ago, I began to experience severe joint pain, characterized by episodes I’ve termed "flares." More recently, I have noticed minor swelling and significant redness on my face, accompanied by a burning sensation that can be quite intense. This discomfort is intermittent; it can occur daily or less frequently. I reached out to my rheumatologist regarding this issue, but he believes it may not be related to my joint pain. At this juncture, I feel quite overwhelmed and uncertain about how to proceed. I also have an MRI scheduled for next week to check for possible inflammation in several joints; I plan to include a photo in the comments if possible. Additionally, you might assume that the joint pains stem from my weight, but the areas most affected are my wrists and fingers.
Answers (1)
6/30/2025, 1:50:43 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're facing multiple symptoms that are causing distress, particularly the burning sensation in your face and the ongoing joint pain. Let’s break down your situation and propose some actionable steps to help you manage these symptoms while you await further evaluations.
Main Points:
- Burning sensation in your face may have various underlying causes.
- Current symptoms could be linked to your medical history and medications.
- It's essential to track symptoms and communicate changes to your healthcare providers for better management.
Explanation:
The burning facial sensation you’re experiencing could result from several factors, including:
- Skin reactions: Sometimes, medication or underlying conditions can cause changes in how your skin feels.
- Autoimmune conditions: Given your suspected autoimmune condition and symptoms of joint pain, this could suggest an inflammatory response that also affects your skin.
- Allergic reactions: Even with low-nicotine vape use, you could be sensitive to other ingredients, leading to skin irritations.
The elevated sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein point towards inflammation, which might explain both your joint pain and facial symptoms.
Next Steps:
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Symptom Tracking: Keep a daily log of your symptoms, including when the burning sensation occurs, its intensity, and any potential triggers (e.g., activities, foods, medications). This information can be valuable for your healthcare team.
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Skin Care: Use gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers on your face to soothe irritation. Avoid any products that exacerbate the burning sensation, such as harsh exfoliants or irritating agents.
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Review Medications: Since you recently started Hydroxychloroquine, consult your physician about any potential links between this medication and your facial symptoms. Adjustments might be necessary depending on your response.
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Hydration & Diet: Maintain hydration and consider anti-inflammatory foods (like fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 rich items) to help manage overall body inflammation, particularly given your weight loss efforts.
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Follow-Up: Be proactive during your MRI appointment and mention all your symptoms clearly, including the burning sensation. This will ensure comprehensive evaluation.
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Seek Support: If you continue to feel overwhelmed with these symptoms, consider discussing your mental well-being with your healthcare provider, as chronic symptoms can significantly impact emotional health.
It's understandable to feel uncertain when faced with multiple symptoms. Stay proactive and keep communicating openly with your healthcare team as you seek clarity on your condition. Let me know if you have other questions or need further assistance!
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