Red Spots and Subcutaneous Bleeding: Causes and Concerns - Dermatology

More Info

---

The appearance of red spots or subcutaneous bleeding can be concerning, especially when they are new and persistent. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing red spots that appear intermittently, are not painful or itchy, and tend to fade away after a week. This pattern can be indicative of several conditions, but it is essential to approach this with a comprehensive understanding of potential causes.

1. Petechiae and Purpura: The red spots you are describing could be petechiae or purpura, which are small red or purple spots that occur due to bleeding under the skin. Petechiae are typically smaller than 3 mm, while purpura are larger. These can occur for various reasons, including minor trauma, certain medications (like blood thinners), or underlying medical conditions that affect blood clotting.

2. Allergic Reactions: Sometimes, red spots can be a result of an allergic reaction to food, medication, or environmental factors. If you have recently changed your diet or started new medications, this could be a contributing factor.

3. Infections: Certain viral infections can cause rashes or spots on the skin. For example, infections like viral exanthems (common in children but can occur in adults) may present with red spots.
4. Dermatological Conditions: Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or even folliculitis can lead to the appearance of red spots. These conditions may also cause changes in the skin texture or color.

5. Vascular Issues: Conditions affecting blood vessels, such as vasculitis, can lead to the appearance of red spots. Vasculitis is an inflammation of the blood vessels that can cause various symptoms, including skin changes.

6. Underlying Health Conditions: Certain systemic conditions, such as autoimmune diseases or blood disorders, can manifest as skin changes. If you have other symptoms like fatigue, unexplained bruising, or changes in your overall health, it would be prudent to investigate these further.

Given that you have already undergone blood tests and your physician indicated that everything is normal, it is a positive sign. However, if the spots continue to appear or if you develop new symptoms, it may be worth seeking further evaluation. Here are some steps you can take:
- Keep a Diary: Document when the spots appear, their size, any associated symptoms, and any potential triggers (like food, stress, or activities). This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider.

- Consult a Dermatologist: If the spots persist or if you have concerns, seeing a dermatologist can provide specialized insight. They may perform a skin examination and, if necessary, a biopsy to determine the nature of the spots.

- Monitor for Other Symptoms: Pay attention to any other changes in your body, such as unexplained bruising, fatigue, or joint pain, and report these to your healthcare provider.

- Avoid Self-Diagnosis: While it is natural to seek information online, self-diagnosing can lead to unnecessary anxiety. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

In summary, while the appearance of red spots can be concerning, many benign conditions can cause them. Continuous monitoring and consultation with healthcare professionals will help ensure that any underlying issues are addressed appropriately. If you experience any sudden changes or worsening of your symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical attention.