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
Coronavirus (COVID-19) update: how to contact a GP
It's still important to get help from a GP if you need it. To contact your GP surgery:
- visit their website
- use the NHS App
- call them
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: 09 November 2020
Next review due: 09 November 2023