Erythema nodosum
Erythema nodosum is swollen fat under the skin causing bumps and patches that look red or darker than surrounding skin. It usually goes away by itself, but it can be a sign of something serious.
Check if you have erythema nodosum
You may also have flu-like symptoms, such as:
- a high temperature
- tiredness
- joint and muscle pain
If you're not sure it's erythema nodosum
Check other types of lumps.
How you can ease the pain yourself
- try ibuprofen
- rest with your feet raised on a pillow
- apply a cool wet compress, like a damp cloth
The colour of the bumps and patches usually changes and fades, like a bruise.
The bumps usually heal on their own within 3 to 8 weeks without leaving a scar. But other symptoms, such as joint pain, may last several weeks or months.
A pharmacist can help with erythema nodosum
If you're in pain, a pharmacist can recommend:
- stronger painkillers
- supportive bandages or stockings
A pharmacist may also suggest you see a GP.
Non-urgent advice: See a GP if:
- the pain is affecting your daily life
- lots of bumps and patches start appearing
- the bumps do not go away
Treatment from a GP
A GP should be able to tell if you have erythema nodosum by looking at the bumps and patches.
If the GP thinks a medicine you've been taking might be causing erythema nodosum, you may be advised to stop taking it. Do not stop taking your medicines without asking a GP first.
The GP might arrange some tests if erythema nodosum:
- could be a sign of something more serious
- has not cleared within 8 weeks
Causes of erythema nodosum
Erythema nodosum can be caused by lots of things, but often the cause is not known.
Common causes include:
- Crohn's disease
- ulcerative colitis
- a reaction to some medicines
- sarcoidosis
- tuberculosis
- pneumonia
- a throat infection
- a fungal infection
Page last reviewed: 9 November 2020
Next review due: 9 November 2023