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If you’re like me, you probably check your body often for lumps, bumps, bruises, or anything that seems out of place. Call me paranoid or just cautious, but I like to know what’s going on with my body and be ready to seek medical help if I notice any unexplained changes. So you can imagine my surprise when I discovered a cluster of red dots on my shoulder one morning. Naturally, I turned to the internet for answers.
As it turns out, red spots on the skin aren’t all that uncommon. In fact, they can have many different causes, so I thought it would be helpful to list some possibilities for anyone in a similar situation. It’s important to remember that these spots can vary in size, shape, and color—and their significance can also vary widely. Some are completely harmless, while others may indicate something more serious.
If you notice red dots on your skin, here are some possible explanations:
Red dots on the skin can be caused by a range of factors—some harmless, others requiring medical attention:
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Petechiae and Purpura: Tiny red or purple dots caused by broken capillaries. Often harmless, but can signal platelet disorders.
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Cherry Angiomas: Bright red bumps caused by blood vessel growth. Common with age and generally harmless.
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Heat Rash: Caused by trapped sweat, leading to itchy red bumps, especially in hot, humid climates.
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Allergic Reactions: Red, itchy rashes triggered by foods, medications, or insect bites.
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Folliculitis: Infection of hair follicles, resulting in red, pus-filled bumps.
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Cellulitis: Painful, warm skin infection that requires antibiotics.
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Impetigo: Contagious red sores common in children that ooze and form crusts.
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Vasculitis: Inflammation of blood vessels that causes red patches, sometimes linked to autoimmune conditions.
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Hemangiomas: Birthmarks caused by blood vessel overgrowth—usually harmless.
Seek medical attention if the red dots are painful, spreading quickly, or accompanied by symptoms like fever, fatigue, or dizziness.
