Crimson Marks on Skin
Age: 29 | Height: 5'8" | Recently started new medications: No A few days ago, I noticed some red marks on my arm upon waking up. At first, I thought they might be a result of a burn from my heating pad, so I went about my day casually. Thankfully, those marks disappeared after roughly 24 hours. However, this morning I found similar marks on my left breast. They are not raised, do not cause any discomfort such as pain or itching, nor do they feel warm to the touch. The skin in the affected area feels identical to the non-affected skin. Does anyone have insights into what might be causing this?
Answers (1)
8/17/2025, 1:21:00 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing transient red marks on your skin, which can be concerning, but often these can be benign and temporary. Here are the main points to consider:
Key Points:
- The red marks appear to be non-painful, transient, and not raised, which is reassuring.
- They could potentially be caused by various benign conditions such as pressure marks, minor skin irritation, or even an allergic reaction to something that briefly touched your skin.
Explanation: Transient red marks on the skin can occur from several reasons, including:
- Pressure Indications: If you are resting your arm or breast against a surface, it can cause pressure marks that fade quickly.
- Irritation or Allergic Reactions: Sometimes, contact with fabrics, soaps, or other irritants can lead to temporary redness without other symptoms.
- Localized Blood Vessel Changes: Conditions like petechiae (tiny blood spots under the skin) might also cause similar marks but typically involve other symptoms.
The fact that these marks fade and do not come with other problematic symptoms is generally a positive sign.
Next Steps:
- Observe the Marks: Keep an eye on the marks. Note if they appear after particular activities or exposures. Record when they happen and how long they last.
- Enhanced Skin Protection: Be cautious of irritating fabrics or items that might be pressing against your skin.
- Skin Care Routine: Use a gentle, hypoallergenic moisturizer on your skin to maintain skin health and sensitivity.
- Track Symptoms: If you observe any new symptoms such as persistent marks, changes in the appearance of existing marks, or the development of additional symptoms (such as itching or discomfort), it would be wise to re-evaluate.
- Consider a Patch Test: If you suspect an allergic reaction, consider doing a patch test with any new soaps, laundry detergents, or fabrics.
If the situation changes or you are still concerned, please consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation. Your well-being is important, and getting a second opinion can always provide peace of mind.
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