What Causes Senile Purpura During Old Age?

Posted on Wed, 12 Jul 2017

Question: I have extremely thin skin on my shins due to age (64) and exposure to sun. Both legs have dark bruises up and down the shin areas. I have used Arnica gels, DerMend cream, Hyrocortisone 2.5, Ammonium Lactate Cream 12%. Nothing is helping in healing the bruises. I have had blood work done. No indication on problems there. I also bruise easily on my hands; however, these bruises heal with time.
I have also used ice, elevated my legs during the day and at night and used massage.
Any other suggestions? They are very embarrassing as I have always been complimented on my nice looking legs.

Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Moisturising lotion, vitamin C tablets

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for being at HealthcareMagic

I have gone through your complaints and can understand your concern.If you upload a photo of the rash I will be better able to help.

You seem to be having senile purpura due to age and thinning of skin.
It is a age related change in many individuals.
Avoid trauma to your arms and legs and keep them moisturized by frequent and liberal application of a moisturising lotion containing white soft paraffin 2-3 times in a day.
Also take tablet vitamin C 500 mg twice daily as they will strengthen the capillaries.
This will improve the condition of your legs to some extent.

Regards
Dr Asmeet

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (31 minutes later)

I have attached a picture of my right leg.

Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (39 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Can't see any pictures, upload them again

Detailed Answer:
I can't see any picture.
Kindly upload it again under the report section or mail it to YYYY@YYYY as " Attention: Dr Asmeet ".

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad