Many patients with Henoch-Schonlein purpura, especially parents, often see the purple spots on their children's skin, feel that the condition is not serious, and observe them at home for a few days, and even believe that they can heal themselves. In fact, Henoch-Schonlein purpura is not just a skin problem, it can also affect internal organs, which can lead to more serious consequences. If you or a family member has the following five symptoms, don't delay any longer and see a doctor now!
1. The rash is enlarged or darkened
The most typical symptom of Henoch-Schonlein purpura is a rash, which starts out as small areas of erythema or purple. If you notice that the rash is widening in a short period of time, or the color is darkening, or even ecchymosis, ulceration appears, it means that the inflammation of the blood vessels is getting worse. Don't think it's just a skin problem, it could mean that the condition is getting worse and you must see a doctor as soon as possible to adjust your treatment plan.
2. Abdominal pain, vomiting or diarrhea
Henoch-Schonlein purpura sometimes affects the digestive tract and presents with symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea, especially in children, often presenting with paroxysmal severe abdominal pain. Many parents mistakenly think that their children have a bad stomach, and they can just take some painkillers and be done. In fact, this kind of abdominal pain is caused by vasculitis, and may even lead to serious problems such as intestinal bleeding and intestinal perforation, so it should not be taken lightly. As soon as these symptoms appear, seek medical attention immediately!
3. Joint swelling and pain or limited movement
Some patients with Henoch-Schonlein purpura have swollen and painful joints or limited movement, especially in the knees, ankles and other areas. These symptoms may be caused by inflammation involving the joints. If the joint pain is severe, or even affects daily activities, it means that the disease has begun to affect the deep tissues, and it is important to go to the hospital for further examination and treatment to avoid aggravation of symptoms.
4. Abnormal urine color or decreased urine output
One of the most worrying complications of Henoch-Schonlein purpura is kidney involvement, which develops into purpuric nephritis. Once the kidneys are damaged, there may be abnormalities in the color of the urine, such as red, tea-colored urine, or even a decrease in urine output. These are all signs that there is a problem with the kidneys, and you must be vigilant. Early detection of kidney damage and prompt treatment can prevent the disease from progressing further.
5. Recurrent attacks and difficult to control the condition
If you find that Henoch-Schonlein purpura recurs, and the rash, abdominal pain, and joint pain recur every once in a while, and the condition is always uncontrollable, it also means that the treatment effect is not satisfactory. At this time, do not delay and do not go to the doctor, it is recommended to recheck as soon as possible and adjust the treatment plan. Recurrent attacks indicate that the body's immune system is not yet stable and must be fundamentally regulated to reduce the chance of recurrence.
Henoch-Schonlein purpura is not a disease that can be taken lightly, especially when the condition is aggravated or new symptoms appear, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. Worsening rashes, abdominal pain, swollen joints, and abnormal urination are all signs that your condition is getting worse. Only by diagnosing and standardizing treatment as early as possible can we avoid more serious complications and recover our health as soon as possible!