What causes small red spots to appear on the body?

Jul 13, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I've been getting little red spots on my body these days, which seems really strange. I want to ask the doctor, what causes the appearance of small red spots on the body?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
In general, small red spots on the body may be caused by subcutaneous bleeding points, keratosis pilaris, skin allergies, spider angiomas, and other reasons: 1. **Subcutaneous bleeding points**: When the body experiences external pressure or impact, it may cause local capillaries to rupture, resulting in red spots under the skin. No special treatment is required, and the red spots may gradually disappear after a period of time. 2. **Keratosis pilaris**: Keratosis pilaris can cause small red spots on the arms, back, and legs. The red spots are usually darker in color and the skin may appear raised. If scratched open, there may be curled hairs inside. This condition generally does not require treatment. 3. **Skin allergy**: Contact with certain allergens may cause allergic reactions on the skin, manifesting as itching, redness, papules, and hives, which can result in small red spots. There may also be symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. For patients with severe allergies, anti-allergy medications such as dexamethasone acetate tablets or prednisone acetate tablets may be used according to a doctor's instructions. In daily life, patients should avoid allergens and minimize consumption of easily allergenic foods such as seafood. 4. **Spider angioma**: Spider angiomas may be associated with elevated estrogen levels, causing small red spots on the skin with a central raised point and radiating capillaries resembling spider legs. They mainly occur on the face and neck. Spider angiomas can be treated under a doctor's guidance with laser surgery to destroy the raised areas and relieve symptoms. For patients with frequent recurrences, surgical removal may also be considered under medical advice.