1. Petechiae (tiny pinpoint red dots)
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Very small, flat red or purple dots, often on legs, arms, or torso.
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Cause: Minor bleeding under the skin from broken capillaries, infections, or low platelets.
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Red flag: If they appear suddenly, in clusters, or are accompanied by bruising or fever → see a doctor immediately.
2. Cherry Angiomas
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Small, bright red or purple raised dots, usually on the trunk.
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Cause: Benign growths of tiny blood vessels.
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Usually harmless and common with aging.
3. Allergic Reactions or Hives
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Red, itchy spots or patches that may come and go.
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Cause: Food, medication, or environmental triggers.
4. Heat Rash (Miliaria)
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Tiny red dots that may be itchy or prickly.
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Cause: Sweat trapped in blocked pores, common in hot or humid weather.
5. Skin Infections
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Red spots can appear with bacterial or viral infections, sometimes with pus or crusting.
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Examples: chickenpox, measles, or impetigo.
6. Other Causes
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Insect bites – small red bumps, often itchy.
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Autoimmune or blood disorders – sometimes cause red or purple dots.
⚠️ Important:
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If red dots appear suddenly, spread rapidly, are painful, or come with fever/bleeding, it could be serious.
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If they persist or change, a dermatologist should check them.
If you want, I can make a simple visual guide showing different types of red dots and what they likely mean, so you can compare safely at home.
Do you want me to do that?