hemorrhages under the skin

3 min read 13-03-2025

Meta Description: Discover the causes, symptoms, and treatments for hemorrhages under the skin (purpura, petechiae, ecchymosis). Learn how to identify different types and when to seek medical attention. This comprehensive guide provides valuable information on this common skin condition.

What are Hemorrhages Under the Skin?

Hemorrhages under the skin occur when blood vessels break and leak blood into the surrounding tissues. This can manifest in various ways, depending on the size and location of the bleeding. The resulting discoloration is often a key symptom. These skin hemorrhages are sometimes referred to as purpura, petechiae, or ecchymosis, depending on their appearance and size.

Types of Skin Hemorrhages

Petechiae: These are tiny, pinpoint-sized red or purple spots that are less than 3 millimeters in diameter. They usually appear in clusters and don't blanch (don't turn white when pressed).
Purpura: This refers to larger, flat, purple or purplish-red spots under the skin. These spots are larger than petechiae, ranging from 3 to 10 millimeters in diameter. Like petechiae, purpura doesn't blanch when pressed.
Ecchymosis: Commonly known as bruises, ecchymoses are larger areas of discoloration that are often caused by trauma. They can vary in size and color, changing from blue or purple to green or yellow as they heal. Unlike petechiae and purpura, the color of an ecchymosis will change when pressed.

Causes of Hemorrhages Under the Skin

The causes of hemorrhages under the skin are diverse, ranging from minor trauma to serious underlying medical conditions. Understanding the potential causes is crucial for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Common Causes

Trauma: Minor bumps, falls, or injuries are frequent causes of bruising (ecchymosis).
Medications: Some medications, such as blood thinners (anticoagulants) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.
Vitamin C Deficiency: A lack of vitamin C can weaken blood vessels, leading to easy bruising and petechiae.
Infections: Certain viral or bacterial infections can cause small hemorrhages under the skin.

Serious Underlying Medical Conditions

In some cases, skin hemorrhages can indicate a more serious underlying medical condition, such as:

Blood clotting disorders: Conditions like hemophilia or thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) can significantly increase the risk of bleeding. A low platelet count can cause the formation of widespread petechiae and purpura.
Vasculitis: This involves inflammation of blood vessels, leading to bleeding and damage to the vessels themselves.
Leukemia: This type of cancer affects blood-forming tissues and can also cause widespread bleeding.
Liver disease: Liver damage can impair the body's ability to produce clotting factors, resulting in increased bleeding tendencies.

Symptoms of Hemorrhages Under the Skin

Symptoms vary depending on the cause and extent of the hemorrhages. However, the primary symptom is the appearance of discoloration under the skin, ranging from tiny spots to large bruises. Other symptoms may include:

Easy bruising: Bruising easily with minimal trauma.
Prolonged bleeding: Bleeding that takes longer than usual to stop.
Bleeding from gums or nose: Unexplained bleeding from these areas.
Fatigue and weakness: These can accompany underlying medical conditions causing hemorrhages.
Swelling: In the case of larger hemorrhages.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While many cases of skin hemorrhages are harmless, it's crucial to seek medical attention if you experience:

Sudden appearance of numerous petechiae or purpura.
Hemorrhages accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss.
Prolonged or excessive bleeding.
Severe bruising without a clear cause.
Hemorrhages that are painful or accompanied by swelling.

Diagnosis and Treatment

A doctor will usually diagnose skin hemorrhages based on a physical examination and medical history. Blood tests might be necessary to evaluate blood clotting factors, platelet count, and to rule out other medical conditions.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. For minor bruises, self-care measures like ice packs and elevation may be sufficient. If a medical condition is found to be the cause, treatment will focus on addressing that condition. This might involve medication, lifestyle changes, or more specialized medical interventions.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.