If you spot these red dots on your skin, here’s what they mean (Page 2 ) | February 8, 2025

Petechiae and Purpura
Taking the appearance of tiny red dots on the skin, these are the result of damaged blood vessels or capillaries. Causes can include stress, coughing, or certain medications. They are typically harmless, though can indicate underlying medical conditions such as platelet disorders.

Cherry Angiomas
These are seen as small, raised, bright red bumps, and come from an overgrowth of blood vessels. Cherry angiomas are completely harmless in the main, and are often more common as we age.

Heat Rash
Simple and fairly common depending on the environment. The ‘rash’ occurs when sweat becomes trapped in sweat ducts, producing a pattern of itchy, red dots on the skin.

Allergic Reactions
Self-explanatory. A result of an allergic reaction to food, substances, medications, or insect stings or bites, leading to skin redness and an itchy rash.

Folliculitis
An inflammation of hair follicles usually triggered by bacterial or fungal infections. The result is red, pus-filled dots that can cause discomfort.

Cellulitis
A bacterial skin infection that produces redness and skin swelling that feels warm to the touch. Cellulitis often requires medical attention and treatment via a course of antibiotics.

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