Red Spots on Hands: Causes and When to Seek Medical Attention - Dermatology

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Red spots on the hands, especially when they appear as petechiae (small red or purple spots caused by bleeding under the skin), can be concerning. Given your description of the spots being painless, non-itchy, and not disappearing when pressed, it’s essential to consider several potential causes and when to seek medical attention.


Possible Causes of Red Spots
1. Petechiae: These are small, pinpoint red spots that can appear due to minor trauma, such as straining or excessive coughing. They can also occur without any apparent cause. If they are not associated with any other symptoms, they may not be serious.

2. Allergic Reactions: Sometimes, skin reactions can occur due to allergens, including certain soaps, detergents, or even food. If you have recently changed any products you use, this could be a factor.

3. Infections: Certain viral infections can cause petechiae or rashes. For example, infections like viral meningitis or other systemic viral illnesses can lead to such symptoms.

4. Vascular Issues: Conditions affecting blood vessels, such as vasculitis, can lead to red spots. This is usually accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever or joint pain.

5. Platelet Disorders: Conditions that affect blood platelets, such as thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), can lead to bleeding under the skin. This can be due to various reasons, including bone marrow disorders or autoimmune diseases.

6. Dermatological Conditions: Certain skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, can also present with red spots, although these are typically accompanied by other symptoms like itching or scaling.


When to Seek Medical Attention
Given that your symptoms have persisted and are now more extensive than before, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Here are some specific indicators that warrant a visit to a healthcare provider:
- Duration: If the spots have been present for more than a week without improvement.

- Expansion: If the spots are increasing in size or number.

- Associated Symptoms: If you experience any additional symptoms such as fever, fatigue, unexplained bruising, or bleeding elsewhere.

- Single-Handed Occurrence: Since you mentioned that it only occurs on one hand, this could indicate a localized issue that needs further evaluation.


What to Expect at the Doctor’s Office
When you visit a healthcare provider, they will likely perform a physical examination and may ask about your medical history, recent activities, and any other symptoms you may have experienced. They might also order blood tests to check your platelet count and assess for any underlying conditions.


Conclusion
While red spots on the skin can sometimes be benign, given your description of the symptoms and their persistence, it is prudent to consult a healthcare professional. Early evaluation can help rule out any serious conditions and provide peace of mind. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to unexplained changes in your health.