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Petechial spots are small red or purple marks on the skin caused by damage to the capillaries underneath. These capillaries form a fine network of blood vessels that transport oxygen from the bloodstream to the cells. Essentially, petechial spots are tiny bruises. While these spots are commonly seen after physical exertion that causes capillaries to break, such as coughing or crying, they are usually harmless. However, petechial spots may also signal a more serious issue. Therefore, you should consult a doctor if they appear without any apparent cause. It's important to note that petechial spots cannot be treated directly at home; the best approach is to address the underlying cause rather than treat the spots themselves.
Steps
Identify the Cause
Identify potential minor causes. One cause of petechial spots is prolonged physical exertion. For example, extended coughing or intense crying can result in petechial spots. They can also appear after vomiting or straining while lifting heavy weights. This is also a common symptom after childbirth.
Check for Medication Causes. Some medications may lead to petechial spots. For example, anticoagulants like Warfarin and Heparin can cause petechial spots. Similarly, drugs in the naproxen group, such as Aleve, Anaprox, and Naprosyn, may also contribute to petechial spots.
- Other medications that may cause petechial spots include Quinine, Penicillin, Nitrofurantoin, Carbamazepine, Desipramine, Indomethacin, and Atropine.
- If you suspect that a medication is causing petechial spots, consult your doctor. They can assess whether you still need the medication or if an alternative can be prescribed.
Check for Infectious Diseases. Certain infections can also cause petechial spots. Both bacterial and fungal infections can result in petechial spots, such as infectious mononucleosis, scarlet fever, strep throat, meningococcemia, and other less common microbial infections.
Identify Other Deficiency Diseases or Conditions. Petechial spots may be a symptom of other diseases affecting the blood clotting process, such as malignant leukemia or other bone marrow cancers. Petechial spots can also result from a vitamin C deficiency (scurvy) or vitamin K deficiency – both essential for proper blood clotting.
- It’s important to note that some treatments, such as chemotherapy, can also cause petechial spots.
Diagnose to Identify Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP). This condition leads to blood clotting issues because it reduces the number of platelets in the blood. Doctors are unsure of the exact mechanism behind this condition, which is why it’s referred to as 'idiopathic' (meaning the cause is unknown).
- This condition can cause petechial spots and purpura as platelets typically help seal small tears in blood vessels. With insufficient platelets, the blood cannot repair blood vessels fully, leading to under-the-skin bleeding. This results in small red spots (petechiae) or larger blood patches (purpura).
Know What to Do
Visit a Doctor. If you're in good health but notice unexplained petechial spots appearing (without vomiting, physical exertion, or any activity that could explain the spots), it’s best to visit a doctor. Although petechial spots often resolve on their own if you're not sick, it’s still advisable to check for any underlying cause.
- It is especially important to take a child to the doctor if they develop unexplained petechial spots, especially if the spots spread into a large patch.
Treat the Underlying Condition. If an infection or other condition is causing petechial spots, the best way to address them is by treating the underlying illness. Your doctor can help determine the most appropriate medication for your condition.
Protect Yourself as You Age. As people get older, the blood clotting system tends to become less efficient, meaning that even minor injuries can result in noticeable petechial spots. A preventive measure for elderly individuals is to minimize injury risk. While this is sometimes unavoidable, making efforts to reduce unnecessary risks can help.
- For instance, if balance is a concern, consider using crutches or a walking cane for support.
Try Cold Compresses. A cold compress can help reduce petechial spots caused by injury, strain, or physical exertion, but it won’t address the underlying cause. The cold sensation can reduce inflammation and make the spots fade more quickly.
- To apply a cold compress, wrap ice in a towel or cloth and apply it to the affected skin for 15-20 minutes, or less if you can’t tolerate it for long. Do not apply ice directly to the skin to avoid damage.
- You can also use a cloth soaked in cold water as an alternative compress.
Wait for the Petechial Spots to Heal. The main method for eliminating petechial spots is to allow them to heal naturally. Once the underlying cause is treated, the spots will gradually fade away.
