Identifying the Cause of Widespread Red Spots on My Skin
As a 27-year-old woman, I have experienced the presence of numerous small red spots on my skin since childhood. These dots vary in size from tiny pinpricks to larger patches and predominantly appear on my arms. However, for the past three years, I have also been grappling with a range of health issues that remain unresolved despite various medical consultations. Aside from being diagnosed with hypothyroidism and deficiencies in vitamins D and B, as well as a non-anemic iron deficiency, I suspect that there may be an underlying autoimmune condition at play. My attempts to discuss these concerns with healthcare professionals have often left me feeling frustrated and overwhelmed. In the last year, the quantity of these red dots has increased significantly, spreading to areas where they were previously absent, such as my stomach and the backs of my hands. They have also become more pronounced on my chest and thighs, giving me reason to worry, especially since I only have a couple of confirmed cherry angiomas. Although three different doctors, including a dermatologist, have reassured me that these spots are harmless capillary marks, I cannot shake the feeling that the sudden escalation in their number is not mere coincidence. Whenever I research this issue, I find others with similar spots have far fewer than I do. To provide additional context, here is a summary of my chronic symptoms: I regularly experience mild dizziness, visual disturbances known as visual snow, persistent fatigue, and severe brain fog, which at times affects my speech to the point of reversing words or stuttering. I also suffer from muscle weakness paired with internal tremors during physical activity, frequent headaches, episodes in which it feels as though my body is shutting down, shortness of breath, and various sensations including tingling, burning, and intense sharp pains. Other complaints include deep muscle soreness, random stabbing pains, sensations akin to the flu on my skin, difficulties swallowing, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), discomfort in my upper left abdomen, bloating, food sensitivities, anxiety, insomnia, and instances of waking up with a racing heart. I intended to include a picture for reference, but I am currently unable to do so. I appreciate your time and hope for any insights or guidance based on this description!
Answers (1)
9/4/2025, 11:51:06 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel concerned about the changes in your skin and your overall health. The combination of widespread red spots, your chronic symptoms, and existing medical conditions like hypothyroidism and vitamin deficiencies can be quite complex.
Main Points:
- The widespread red spots may be linked to various factors, including possible dermatological, autoimmune, or systemic issues.
- Your chronic symptoms suggest a potential underlying condition that could require further evaluation.
Explanation:
The small red spots you've described could be due to several reasons, including cherry angiomas, petechiae (tiny spots caused by bleeding under the skin), or other dermatological conditions. While your doctors have reassured you about their benign nature, it’s entirely valid to seek clarity, especially given the recent changes.
Your additional symptoms, such as fatigue, dizziness, visual disturbances, muscle weakness, and gastrointestinal issues, could suggest a broader systemic condition, potentially involving autoimmune processes. Conditions like lupus or other autoimmune disorders could cause skin manifestations and systemic symptoms, but diagnosis typically requires thorough testing.
Next Steps:
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Document Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, including when they occur, their duration, and any possible triggers. This can help identify patterns and provide valuable information to your healthcare provider.
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Follow-Up Testing: Consider asking your doctor for comprehensive blood tests that check for autoimmune markers (e.g., ANA, specific autoantibodies) and additional vitamin levels. This may help to clarify any underlying issues.
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Integrate Self-Care:
- Nutrition: Maintain a balanced diet to support your vitamin and mineral levels, particularly focusing on getting sufficient vitamin D and B12.
- Hydration: Ensure you’re well-hydrated, as it can help manage some symptoms.
- Stress Management: Techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or gentle physical activities (such as yoga) might help alleviate anxiety and improve mental clarity.
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Keep Communication Open: It may be helpful to express your concerns and the evolution of your symptoms clearly during appointments. If you're not satisfied, consider requesting a second opinion or a referral to a rheumatologist for specialized evaluation.
Reassurance:
It's completely normal to feel frustrated when dealing with many unresolved health issues. Gathering information about your symptoms and remaining proactive about your health is a positive step forward. Remember, your concerns are valid, and seeking further clarity can lead to better management of your health. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, please feel free to reach out.
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