Why do purple streaks appear on the inner side of the arms?

Oct 14, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
This condition may occur if the arteries and veins on the inner side of the arm become blocked, leading to capillary dilation. Rapid weight gain over a short period or being overweight may cause purple streaks on the inner side of the arms. If the inner arm suffers abrasions or trauma, red blood cells may leak out, resulting in bruising and ecchymosis on the skin; when these merge, they can form the aforementioned symptoms.

Purple streaks on the inner side of the arms may appear due to factors such as capillary dilation or obesity. Additionally, if the inner arm suffers trauma, purple streaks may also develop.

1. Capillary Dilation

Capillaries are the sites in the body where substances are exchanged between arteries and veins. If blood vessels in the inner arm become blocked, it may lead to capillary dilation, resulting in such symptoms.

2. Obesity

Rapid weight gain within a short period or being significantly overweight can cause changes in collagen and elastic fibers in the skin, potentially leading to the appearance of purple streaks on the inner arms.

3. Trauma

If the inner arm experiences abrasions or impacts that damage blood vessel walls, red blood cells may leak out, forming bruises and ecchymoses. When these merge, they create the aforementioned symptoms.

For purple streaks, it is recommended to choose appropriate treatments based on individual circumstances. If caused by capillary dilation or obesity, laser therapy may be considered. If resulting from trauma, disinfecting with iodine tincture is advised to prevent infection.