RSD & Behcet's Disease

RSD (Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy) syndrome and Behcet's disease both affect circulation and are associated with pain. While the two circulation disorders have many similarities, RSD and Behcet's disease do have distinct differences.

RSD

• RSD is a neurological disorder that affects the spine. The condition makes ordinary body functions such as the opening and closing of blood vessels and sweat glands difficult.

Behcet's Disease

• Behcet's disease is commonly associated with ulcers and inflammation on various parts of the body. Mouth ulcers, genital ulcers and inflammation of the eye usually appear together in a patient with Behcet's disease.

Symptoms

• Both circulation disorders share the symptom of pain. With RSD, pain is progressive and is most prominent in the individual's hands and feet. Pain associated with Behcet's disease is caused by joint inflammation. Joint inflammation stiffens muscles, causing pain.

Cause

• The causes for both circulation disorders are unknown. However, RSD can be triggered by conditions such as infection, diabetes and cancer.

Treatment

• Treatment for RSD may include prescription medication, therapy and surgery. The earlier treatment is received the better. For Behcet's disease, treatment involves steroids and creams to treat the ulcers. Pain caused by Behcet's disease can be treated with basic over-the-counter pain medication.