7. Bleeding Disorders or Blood Vessel Issues
What They Look Like: Larger red splotches or patches that may resemble bruises.
Causes:
- Conditions like vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels) or purpura (bleeding under the skin).
- Autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
- Vitamin deficiencies (e.g., vitamin C or K).
When to Worry: If red dots persist, grow larger, or are accompanied by joint pain, fatigue, or unusual bleeding, visit a healthcare professional for further evaluation.
8. Insect Bites or Stings
What They Look Like: Raised, itchy red dots or welts, often with a visible bite mark.
Causes:
- Mosquitoes, fleas, bedbugs, or other insects.
- Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to bites.
When to Worry: Most insect bites resolve within a few days. However, if you develop signs of infection (increased redness, warmth, pus) or systemic symptoms like fever or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention promptly.
9. Rosacea: Persistent Redness
What They Look Like: Persistent redness with visible blood vessels, sometimes accompanied by acne-like bumps.
Causes:
- A chronic skin condition triggered by stress, alcohol, spicy foods, or extreme temperatures.
- More common in fair-skinned individuals.
When to Worry: While rosacea isn’t dangerous, it can worsen without treatment. Consult a dermatologist for management options, including topical creams or laser therapy.
10. Cancerous Lesions (Rare but Serious)
What They Look Like: Irregularly shaped red dots or patches that may itch, bleed, or scab over time.
Causes:
- Skin cancer types like basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma.
- Prolonged sun exposure is a major risk factor.
When to Worry: Any new or changing lesion should be evaluated by a dermatologist. Early detection significantly improves outcomes for skin cancer treatment.
