Red Spots on My Legs: An Unwelcome Surprise
Greetings! This past Saturday, I visited a friend and encountered quite a warm day, exceeding 30°C, which is notably hot for us Europeans. After spending several hours seated, I became aware of numerous small spots emerging across my legs. These dots began just below my knees and extended upwards towards my hips. I occasionally notice similar spots on my arms without any reason, so it was unexpected to see them appearing on my legs in such quantity. I've come across information suggesting that heat can trigger this kind of reaction. However, I should mention that I recently returned from China, where temperatures reached above 33°C coupled with high humidity levels of over 80%. Therefore, this level of heat exposure isn't unfamiliar to me. Additionally, I developed a cold during my flight home, which might also play a role in this situation. I am 34 years old. For allergies, particularly during hay fever season, I take fexofenadine 180 mg daily. I also deal with lipedema, and it’s common for my legs to swell when it's hot outside.
Answers (1)
6/16/2025, 5:01:46 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing an unusual skin reaction with red spots on your legs, particularly after being in the heat for an extended period. This could be related to several factors, including heat rash, allergic reactions, or even a response to your recent cold.
Explanation:
- Heat Rash (Miliaria): Intense heat can cause blocked sweat glands, leading to red spots or bumps. This is common when it's hot, especially after sitting for a long time.
- Allergic Reaction: Since you've been taking fexofenadine for allergies, it’s possible that the combination of heat and recent changes (like air travel or being around new allergens) could trigger a skin response.
- Underlying Conditions: Given your existing lipedema, which can cause swelling and skin sensitivity in hot weather, it might also contribute to skin changes.
Next Steps:
- Cool Compress: Apply a cool, damp cloth to the affected areas for 15-20 minutes several times a day to soothe the skin.
- Hydration: Ensure you’re drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, which can help your body cope with heat and may reduce the swelling.
- Looser Clothing: Wear loose, breathable clothing to prevent further irritation and help keep your skin cool.
- Observe: Monitor the spots over the next few days. If they worsen, change in appearance (like blistering), or if you develop other symptoms such as itching, swelling, or fever, this may warrant further evaluation.
- Avoid Triggers: Try to stay cool and limit exposure to heat until the spots resolve.
If the spots persist or you have significant discomfort, consider your options for seeking medical advice. Remember, these changes are often temporary and manageable with careful attention. Feel free to share any further symptoms or concerns you may have.
Related Questions
Identifying Mysterious Nose Spots
Greetings everyone! I'm a 32-year-old woman, and I don't take any medications. For several months now, I've been dealing with two spots on my nose that simply won’t go away. I maintain a skincare routine that includes cleansing, toning, and moisturizing, but despite my efforts, these spots remain persistent. They lack a noticeable head, which makes it impossible for me to pop them, and they neither cause discomfort nor have they grown larger over time. I woke up one day to discover them, and they’ve been there ever since. My apologies for the poor image quality.
Seeking Help for a Skin Rash
Age: 20 years Gender: Male Height: 5 feet 10 inches Weight: 130 pounds Ethnicity: Asian Length of Symptoms: Approximately one week, although the larger area of irritation has been developing for about three weeks. Affected Area: My arms Medical History: No known health issues Current Treatments: Not taking any medications at the moment.
Struggling with Long-Term Nasal Congestion
**Patient Overview:** 21-year-old male For the past three to four years, I've been dealing with persistent nasal congestion, which has been quite troublesome. Despite seeking help from two different ENT specialists and trying various medications, including multiple nasal sprays and drops, I haven't found any lasting relief. Unfortunately, the treatments have been largely ineffective. Both an endoscopy and a CT scan yielded no definitive results. The only temporary relief I've experienced comes from certain nasal sprays that I used excessively, leading to a rebound effect that made my condition worse. One of the ENT doctors indicated that there weren’t any viable solutions for my issue, while the other recommended consulting an allergist for further assistance. **Allergy Testing Results:** - **Immunoglobulin Level:** 283.4 IU/ml - Identified allergies include: - House Dust Mites: 4.90 IU/ml (Dermatophagoides farinae) - House Dust: 2.00 IU/ml (Hollister Stier) - Storage Mites: 1.30 IU/ml (Glycyphagus domesticus) - Casein: 1.10 IU/ml - Chickpea: 0.98 IU/ml - Sesame Seed: 1.22 IU/ml - Milk: 1.50 IU/ml - Egg: 1.30 IU/ml - Yogurt: 0.46 IU/ml - Common Ragweed: 1.20 IU/ml **CT Scan Findings:** - **MSCT Scan of the Paranasal Sinuses (Plain):** - **Nasal Cavity:** The septum is nearly central, but there are hypertrophied middle and inferior turbinates on the right side leading to fullness in the right nasal cavity. Concha bullosa is observed bilaterally. - **Bilateral Sinuses & Drainage Pathways:** Sinuses appear normal and the bilateral ostiomeatal complex is also normal. - There are enlarged soft tissue shadows of the adenoids measuring 32 x 14.5 mm, which may be causing mild to moderate narrowing of the air passage. - Bilateral tonsilloliths are present with no collection, and there is a need to rule out the possibility of chronic or recurrent tonsillitis. - **Anatomical Variations:** The Vidian nerve canals are normal, with no Haller or Onodi cells observed; Keros type II olfactory fossae are present on both sides. **Impression:** The findings suggest mild adenoid hypertrophy and nasal cavity fullness due to enlarged turbinates. Thankfully, the sinuses and ostiomeatal complex appear to be normal. Although I cannot recall the specific names of the medications and sprays prescribed—due to difficulty in reading my doctor’s handwriting—I conducted some research and learned that many of these medications are typically used for allergic rhinitis. Now, my physician has suggested that I consider starting immunotherapy and advised me to see an allergist. I find myself uncertain about the next steps, and I am seeking guidance on how to proceed.
Unusual Skin Changes After Showering
I'm a 33-year-old female and I'm curious if anyone has experienced something similar. After I shower, I often notice a reddish rash appearing on my legs. However, today there were also numerous purple spots alongside the typical redness. Unfortunately, I can't upload images here, but I'll share them in the comments for those interested in what I'm describing.
Understanding Skin Flushing
A 29-year-old man has been experiencing episodes of skin flushing for the past four months. Initially, these occurrences were limited to situations involving alcohol consumption, which he recognized as a common reaction. However, now he encounters flushing daily, particularly during work or after showering, and it doesn't solely stem from increased body temperature. Despite undergoing numerous blood tests that returned normal results, he remains puzzled as to the cause, as there seem to be no identifiable triggers. An appointment with a dermatologist is already scheduled, as there is speculation that he may have rosacea, a condition he has never previously dealt with. The sensations accompanying these flushes are extremely uncomfortable, causing his skin to feel hot and taut. He is seeking advice on potential explanations or remedies for his condition.