Why did many small red spots appear on my arm after taking traditional Chinese medicine, and what should I do?
Jul 16, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, developing multiple small red spots on the arms after taking traditional Chinese medicine may be caused by factors such as irritation from the medication's ingredients, skin sensitivity, drug allergy, contact dermatitis, or drug rash. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and undergo symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. During the course of taking traditional Chinese medicine, it is important to closely monitor any skin changes, and if small red spots appear, do not take any medication on your own.
Generally, developing many small red spots on the arm after taking traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) may be caused by factors such as irritation from medication ingredients, skin sensitivity, drug allergy, contact dermatitis, or drug rash. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Drug ingredient irritation: Some traditional Chinese medicines contain irritating components that may stimulate the skin on the arm and cause small red spots, often without significant discomfort or accompanied by mild itching. Discontinue the TCM immediately, cleanse the affected skin with warm water, avoid scratching, and wear loose clothing to reduce friction. Symptoms usually subside gradually after discontinuation of the medication.
2. Skin sensitivity: If the skin on the arm is particularly sensitive and poorly tolerates certain components in the TCM, it may develop a stress reaction manifested as small red spots. Follow your doctor's advice to adjust the TCM formula or dosage. Apply a mild moisturizing lotion locally to protect the skin, and avoid using irritating cleansing or skincare products.
3. Drug allergy: Allergic reaction to specific components in the TCM may cause small red spots densely clustered on the arm, accompanied by significant itching. Patients may take medications such as chlorpheniramine maleate tablets, cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, or loratadine syrup as directed by a physician. Record the allergenic component and avoid future exposure.
4. Contact dermatitis: Small red spots may develop on the skin of the arm due to contact with the TCM liquid or an allergic reaction to cooking utensils, accompanied by itching and burning. Promptly wash the affected skin with clean water, avoid further contact with the allergen, and apply topical medications such as hydrocortisone butyrate cream, desonide cream, or mometasone furoate cream to relieve symptoms.
5. Drug eruption: Skin and mucous membrane inflammation caused by TCM may result in small red spots on the arm that coalesce into patches, causing intense itching, and may be accompanied by blisters in severe cases. Patients should take medications such as prednisone tablets, vitamin C tablets, or calcium gluconate injection as directed by a physician.
During TCM treatment, it is important to monitor any skin changes. If small red spots appear, do not self-medicate. Avoid contact between the herbal liquid and skin during preparation, store TCM away from light and moisture, and ensure safe medication use.
