Identifying and Treating Petechiae and Other Bruising Skin Conditions
When a person has petechiae, they may experience a range of skin symptoms that can be embarrassing, uncomfortable, and even painful. The small red and purple spots, caused by bleeding into skin membranes, can be triggered by conditions that are not dangerous but can signify underlying health conditions that should be seen by a medical professional. Petechiae occur more frequently in older adults and young children, but an underlying condition can cause them in individuals of any age. Petechiae is a type of bruise that occurs, similar to spider veins and some rashes. What is important to remember is that if you suffer from petechiae or other skin conditions, you don’t have to live with them. Professional dermatologists are experienced in diagnosing many skin conditions and, when necessary, can refer clients to medical professionals for treatment of underlying medical conditions that may be causing petechiae.
What Happens in a Petechiae Breakout
Capillaries rupture and are commonly caused by activities that don’t seem extraordinary. The face can instantly appear dotted with countless purple and red spots. This condition is suffered from in response to bowel movements, coughing, and throwing up. If an individual with petechiae gets sick and vomits, they may experience sudden red or purple spots on their skin that feel like pinpricks when touched, and the skin may feel rough. The skin is hypersensitive during these breakouts, leaving individuals suffering and desperately seeking answers. Some petechiae breakouts can be caused by traumatic injuries, allergies to medications, vitamin deficiencies, and liver disease.
Anyone experiencing petechiae should consider consulting a medical professional to obtain blood tests and identify the root cause so the condition can be addressed.
Children and Petechiae
Children are one of the groups most affected by [petechiae, and this is often caused by a virus. The flu, meningitis, and strep throat can damage blood vessel walls, resulting in a low platelet count. If someone is diagnosed with this condition, they may have underlying health issues that need to be addressed by a medical professional. Often, bloodwork and other diagnosis efforts can pinpoint the cause and address it successfully. Petechiae are like bruises because both are caused by blood leaking into the skin, creating a discolored spot. One of the easiest ways to distinguish petechiae from other skin rashes is that the spots will not change color when pressed. Petechiae is not contagious, but it can take a few days to resolve once underlying conditions are addressed. Children should be seen at the first sign of symptoms, as these may indicate an infection that requires medical treatment. Petechiae caused by trauma, medication, or infection will be resolved once the underlying cause is addressed.
Petechiae, Spider Veins, and Rashes
Bruising occurs when blood collects under the skin, and spider veins are another skin condition that can appear red and purple, making individuals feel self-conscious or embarrassed. Many people seek professional help from a dermatologist to treat spider veins.
Spider Vein Care
Spider veins are not contagious, and several in-office treatments can address concerns about them. Spider veins are caused by pooling blood and can branch out like spider legs, which is why they are called that. Spider veins, like petechiae, can be caused by trauma, injury, pregnancy, weight gain, and extreme pressure from coughing, childbirth, and vomiting. Spider veins are highly treatable, and something as simple as compression stockings may provide relief. Sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution into the vein, but it can take several weeks for the veins to disappear completely. Spider vein treatments should be performed only by a professional dermatologist skilled in treating this condition.
Eczema and Other Rashes
Rashes can be caused by food, environmental, or material allergies. Allergies are common, and rashes may disappear as fast as they appear once the allergen is removed from the individual. However, some rashes, such as rosacea, may require further evaluation and treatment for long-term relief. When working with an experienced dermatologist, they find out about each patient’s history and environmental factors that may be contributing to the skin condition. The visit and exam are thorough, allowing an appropriate diagnosis and treatment options.
A Trustworthy Atlanta Dermatologist
When a person is experiencing a skin condition, whether petechiae, acne, eczema, or something else that makes them feel embarrassed or uncomfortable, they deserve to find caring treatments near them. Most skin conditions, even early detected skin cancer, can be effectively treated by a dermatologist.
Dr. Sherrie Straughn has been helping patients throughout Buckhead for more than 25 years. She is dedicated to the best skincare and dermatology practices, investing in individuals seeking to enhance their beauty or get relief from skin conditions such as acne, ashy skin, DPN, eczema, keloids, melasma, moles, and skin cancer screenings and treatments. When you are in her hands at Buckhead Dermatology, you are in the best dermatology care anywhere in Atlanta.