Reasons Why You Have Red Dots On Your Skin
Causes of Red Dots on the Skin
Red dots on the skin can be caused by a variety of conditions, ranging from common, minor irritations to more serious health issues.
Common and Environmental Causes
Allergic Reactions: Caused by contact with substances like plants, foods, medications, soaps, or cosmetics, resulting in red blotches or hives with itching and swelling.
Heat Rash (Miliaria): Develops in hot, humid conditions from blocked sweat glands, appearing as small red bumps that can itch or sting.
Acne: Blocked pores lead to red pimples/bumps mainly on the face, back, or chest, often associated with oily skin.
Contact Dermatitis: Localized irritation or allergy from direct contact with substances like metals or chemicals, causing itchy, red patches, sometimes with swelling or blisters.
Insect Bites: Localized red bumps from mosquitoes, bed bugs, etc., accompanied by itching and swelling.
Infections
Infections can be viral (e.g., chickenpox, rubella), bacterial (e.g., impetigo, scarlet fever), or fungal (e.g., ringworm), all potentially presenting as red spots or blisters, often with systemic symptoms like fever and fatigue.
Systemic and Other Medical Conditions
Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like psoriasis and lupus cause the immune system to attack healthy skin, resulting in scaly/red patches that are chronic and may flare.
Drug Reactions: Some medications can induce skin eruptions, including red spots, which may appear immediately or be delayed.
Petechiae and Bleeding Disorders: Tiny, flat red dots (petechiae) are due to bleeding under the skin from broken blood vessels. While sometimes benign, they can indicate blood or clotting disorders, especially if accompanied by other symptoms, and are typically not itchy.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While most red dots are mild and temporary, you should consult a doctor if the spots:
Are accompanied by fever, swelling, pain, or other systemic symptoms.
Rapidly increase in number or size.
Don't improve or disappear after a few days.
Occur after starting a new medication or are associated with breathing difficulties (a sign of a possible severe allergy).
