Rapidly Growing Red Spots and Swelling in the Legs

Red spots on the lower limbs accompanied by swelling of the feet?

Hello doctor, I have developed red spots on my legs over the past few weeks, and they have been growing rapidly this week.
The spots vary in size, with the larger ones being about the size of a ten-dollar coin and the smaller ones being just tiny dots.
They feel slightly raised to the touch.
During the time the red spots appeared, my left calf and the back of my right hand became swollen and painful to touch.
Later, the soles of both feet also became swollen.
What kind of symptoms could this be?

Miss Wang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/07

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Without actually seeing the lesion, it cannot be confirmed.
If it is causing significant distress, it is advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Reply Date: 2016/04/07

More Info

The symptoms you are describing, including rapidly growing red spots and swelling in your legs, could be indicative of several underlying conditions. Given your age and the rapid development of these symptoms, it is essential to consider a few possibilities.

Firstly, the appearance of red spots that are raised and painful could be related to an inflammatory response in your body. Conditions such as vasculitis, which is an inflammation of the blood vessels, can lead to similar symptoms. Vasculitis can cause red spots or rashes, swelling, and pain, and it may be associated with other systemic symptoms such as fever or malaise. Another possibility is an allergic reaction, which can manifest as hives or angioedema, leading to swelling and redness in the affected areas.

Additionally, the rapid growth of these spots could suggest a more acute process, such as an infection. For instance, cellulitis, a bacterial skin infection, can cause swelling, redness, and pain in the affected area. If the spots are accompanied by fever, chills, or systemic symptoms, it would be crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

Given that you mentioned swelling in your legs and pain upon touching the affected areas, it is also important to consider the possibility of a more serious condition, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT can cause swelling and pain in the legs and may present with redness. However, this condition is less common in younger individuals unless there are specific risk factors present.

It is also worth noting that certain skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, can cause red, raised spots and may be exacerbated by environmental factors or stress. However, these conditions typically do not cause significant swelling in the legs.

In your case, since the symptoms have progressed rapidly and involve multiple areas of your body, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. A doctor will likely perform a physical examination and may order blood tests or imaging studies to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential, especially if there is a risk of infection or other serious conditions.

In summary, the rapidly growing red spots and swelling in your legs could be due to various causes, including inflammatory conditions, allergic reactions, infections, or other dermatological issues. It is vital to seek medical attention to obtain a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider, as they can provide the necessary care and guidance based on your specific situation.

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