Blood gets into the skin when tiny blood vessels near the skin's surface break and leak into the surrounding tissues.
Understanding Blood in the Skin
When you see blood within the skin, it's often due to a condition known as bleeding into the skin or purpura. This happens when the small blood vessels, known as capillaries, burst. This leakage can manifest in various ways, from tiny red dots called petechiae to larger, flat patches known as ecchymosis, commonly referred to as bruises.
Causes of Bleeding into the Skin
Several factors can cause blood vessels to burst and lead to bleeding into the skin:
- Injury or Trauma: Direct impact or injury to the skin can damage blood vessels.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions can weaken blood vessels or affect blood clotting.
- Leukemia
- Sepsis
- Thrombocytopenia
- Medications: Some medications can interfere with blood clotting or increase the fragility of blood vessels.
- Aspirin
- Warfarin
- Steroids
- Aging: As people age, their skin becomes thinner, and blood vessels become more fragile, making them more susceptible to bursting.
- Infections: Certain infections can cause inflammation and damage to blood vessels.
Types of Bleeding into the Skin
| Type | Description | Size |
|---|---|---|
| Petechiae | Tiny, pinpoint red, brown, or purple spots | < 2 mm in diameter |
| Purpura | Larger, flat, reddish-purple patches | 2 mm to 1 cm |
| Ecchymosis | Largest, also known as bruises, vary in color (red, purple, blue, yellow, green) | > 1 cm in diameter |
Symptoms Associated with Bleeding into the Skin
Depending on the cause and severity, bleeding into the skin may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as:
- Pain or tenderness in the affected area.
- Swelling.
- Itching.
- Changes in skin color.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While minor bleeding into the skin is often harmless, it's essential to seek medical attention if:
- The bleeding is severe or widespread.
- It occurs spontaneously without any apparent cause.
- It is accompanied by other concerning symptoms like fever, dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
- You are on blood-thinning medications.
Treatment
Treatment for bleeding into the skin depends on the underlying cause. It often involves:
- Addressing the root cause (e.g., treating an infection, adjusting medication).
- Applying cold compresses to reduce swelling and pain.
- Resting and elevating the affected area.
