Fact Checked
Pinpoint petechiae are tiny purple or red spots that are caused by damage to the blood capillaries under the skin. The capillaries are the smallest vessels of blood that function by spreading oxygenated blood from the arteries to the tissues of the body and back into the veins.
In most cases, pinpoint petechiae are due to straining which causes the capillaries to burst but it can be a symptom of a more serious condition.
Symptoms of petechiae
- Easily bleeds or bruising
- Accumulation of clotted blood under the skin
- Excessive bleeding from the gums
In most cases, pinpoint petechiae are due to straining which causes the capillaries to burst but it can be a symptom of a more serious condition. - Heavy bleeding during menstrual period
- Hemorrhage of the joints
- Unexplained bleeding of the nose
- Severe bleeding
- Confusion or loss of consciousness for a few minutes
- Fever higher than 101 degrees F
- Severe headache
Causes
- Excessive straining during childbirth, heavy lifting or weightlifting. It might also occur due to choking, violent coughing, consistent vomiting and prolonged crying.
- Smothering or strangulation, biting, spanking or being crushed in vehicular accidents.
- Reactions to certain medications that include cortisone, aspirin, penicillin, quinine and anticoagulants such as heparin or warfarin.
- Severe sepsis caused by low platelet count
- Allergic purpura which is a hemorrhagic disease where there is internal bleeding underneath the skin.
- Rheumatoid arthritis and lupus
- Malnutrition, deficiencies in Vitamin C, K, and B vitamins such as B9, B12 and folate.
- Strep throat is a throat infection caused by streptococcus pyogenes. Tiny red spots can be seen at the back of the throat.
- Scarlet fever
Treatment
- Apply a cold compress on the area to lessen the inflammation and reduce the risk of future pinpoint petechiae. Apply an ice pack on the area for at least 15-20 minutes at a time on the initial 24 hours immediately after the appearance of the petechiae. Avoid applying the pack directly on the skin. Make sure that it is wrapped with a towel before applying on the affected area.
- Take the prescribed supplements to lessen the development of pinpoint petechiae caused by allergic reactions such as probiotics, protease enzymes, thymus extracts methylsulfonylmethane and digestive enzymes
- Increase the intake of vitamins such as Vitamins C, D, K, B9 and folate to increase the platelet count and lessen the inflammation while vitamin B12 prevents deficiencies in vitamins.
Tips
- Avoid lifting and straining activities such as during bowel movements to prevent an increase in the internal pressure that can damage the blood vessels and result to bleeding and development of small red spots in the skin.
- Avoid eating foods that cause thinning out of the blood such as onions and garlic. Avoid all refined and processed foods that have sugar and saturated fats.
- Eat fresh foods such as cherries, berries, tomatoes and plums which are high in antioxidants and increase the level of blood platelet in the body.
- Apply walnut or avocado oil on the skin to improve the texture and elasticity of the skin to prevent outbreaks of pinpoint petechiae.