* **Straining**: Activities like heavy lifting, prolonged coughing, or vomiting can cause capillaries to rupture.([webmd.com][4])

* **Medications**: Certain drugs, including blood thinners and some antibiotics, can increase the risk of petechiae.([verywellhealth.com][1])

* **Blood Disorders**: Conditions like leukemia, thrombocytopenia, or vasculitis can lead to petechiae. ([webmd.com][4])

If petechiae appear suddenly or are accompanied by other symptoms like fever or fatigue, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly.([my.clevelandclinic.org][5])

### 2. Cherry Angiomas

Cherry angiomas are benign (non-cancerous) growths made up of clusters of blood vessels. They are typically bright red, round, and can vary in size. While the exact cause is unknown, they are more common with age and may increase in number over time. Generally, cherry angiomas are harmless and do not require treatment unless they bleed frequently or cause cosmetic concerns. ([self.com][2], [dralpana.com][6])

### 3. Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions to foods, medications, insect bites, or environmental factors can cause red spots or hives. These spots are often raised, itchy, and may appear suddenly. Common allergens include pollen, pet dander, certain foods, and insect stings. Treatment typically involves antihistamines and avoiding the triggering allergen. ([onlymyhealth.com][7])

### 4. Heat Rash (Prickly Heat)

Heat rash occurs when sweat glands become blocked, leading to the trapping of sweat under the skin. This condition is common in hot and humid environments and can cause red, itchy spots or bumps. Heat rash usually resolves on its own by cooling the skin and avoiding excessive sweating. ([philaholisticclinic.com][8])

### 5. Skin Infections

Bacterial or viral infections can cause red spots on the skin. For example, impetigo is a contagious bacterial infection that leads to red sores, while shingles, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, can result in a painful, red rash. Treatment depends on the specific infection and may include antibiotics or antiviral medications.

### 6. Autoimmune Conditions

Autoimmune diseases like lupus or vasculitis can cause red spots or rashes as the body’s immune system attacks its tissues. These conditions may present with other symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, or fever. Management often involves immunosuppressive medications and regular monitoring by a healthcare provider.

### 7. Vitamin Deficiencies

Deficiencies in certain vitamins, particularly vitamin C (scurvy) or vitamin K, can lead to red spots on the skin. These deficiencies affect blood vessel integrity and clotting mechanisms. Supplementation and dietary adjustments are typically recommended to address these deficiencies.

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## When to Seek Medical Attention

While many red spots on the skin are harmless, certain signs warrant prompt medical evaluation:

* **Sudden Onset**: If red spots appear suddenly without an obvious cause.

* **Rapid Spread**: If the spots spread quickly across the body.

* **Associated Symptoms**: If accompanied by fever, fatigue, pain, or swelling.

* **Persistent or Recurrent**: If the spots persist or recur over time.

* **Underlying Health Conditions**: If you have a history of blood disorders or autoimmune diseases.

In such cases, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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## Conclusion

Red spots on the skin can result from various causes, ranging from benign conditions like cherry angiomas and heat rash to more serious issues such as petechiae or allergic reactions. Understanding the characteristics of these spots and associated symptoms can help differentiate between harmless and concerning conditions. When in doubt, or if the spots are accompanied by other symptoms, seeking medical advice is always the best course of action to ensure proper care and peace of mind.

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[1]: https://www.verywellhealth.com/pinprick-red-dots-on-skin-not-itchy-5191860?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Causes of Petechiae (Tiny Red Dots on the Skin)”
[2]: https://www.self.com/story/q-and-a-red-flat-skin-spots?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Recently, I’ve noticed a few tiny bright red spots on my skin that look like little red ink dots. They’re not pimples-they’re flat and have been there for weeks. What are they?”
[3]: https://www.nivea.co.uk/advice/skin/red-spots-on-skin?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Red Spots on the Skin: Causes, Types & Prevention | NIVEA”
[4]: https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/what-are-petechiae?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Petechiae: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, & Treatment”
[5]: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21636-petechiae?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Petechiae: What Are They, Causes, Treatment & Prevention”
[6]: https://www.dralpana.com/post/cherry-angioma-vs-petechiae?utm_source=chatgpt.com “dralpana.com/post/cherry…”
[7]: https://www.onlymyhealth.com/common-causes-of-red-spots-on-skin-and-how-to-get-rid-of-them-red-spots-on-skin-here-are-its-common-causes-and-how-to-get-rid-of-them-1729250968?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Red Spots On Skin: Here Are Its Common Causes And How To Get Rid Of Them | OnlyMyHealth”
[8]: https://philaholisticclinic.com/what-can-cause-red-spots-on-the-skin/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Red Spots on the Skin – Philadelphia Holistic Clinic – Dr. Tsan & Assoc.”