Possible Causes
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Bruising or bleeding under the skin (purpura)
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Causes include low platelets, clotting disorders, or certain medications (blood thinners, steroids).
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Often presents as purple or red spots that don’t hurt or fade slowly.
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Vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels)
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Can cause small or large purple spots, sometimes with tenderness.
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May be accompanied by fatigue, fever, or joint pain.
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Infections
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Certain infections (like meningococcal infection or sepsis) can produce purplish spots that spread rapidly.
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This is a medical emergency if spots appear suddenly and you feel unwell.
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Other causes
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Vitamin deficiencies (like vitamin C)
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Certain autoimmune disorders
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Rare blood cancers affecting platelets or clotting
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Red Flags – Seek Immediate Care If:
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Spots are spreading quickly
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You have fever, chills, or feel unwell
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Nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or unusual bruising elsewhere
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Weakness, dizziness, or confusion
If any of these apply, go to an urgent care or emergency room immediately, rather than waiting for your scheduled appointment.
Practical Steps Right Now
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Take photos of the patches to show your doctor.
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Note when each patch appears, any pain, or other symptoms.
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Avoid blood thinners unless prescribed.
Since your doctor isn’t available until January, I strongly recommend calling an urgent care or ER to get evaluated. Some causes need blood tests or immediate treatment.
If you want, I can help you figure out which urgent tests or checks are most likely to identify the cause quickly, so you can mention them when you see a clinician. Do you want me to do that?