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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Red Blotches On The Left Arm?

My left arm is covered with red blotches which I guess are broken blood vessels under the skin. They come and go but this is the most I ve had since it began a year or so ago. I did a lot of exercise yesterday and it s the only reason I can think of for this problem. I am 79 years old and quite active. I have decided to see my own doctor tomorrow since I have to pay for this consultation on line. Thank you.
Mon, 7 Aug 2017
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Dear Sir/Mam,
I understand your concerns about the ecchymosis you have.
It is true that this happens more with agem because the skin becomes thinner, the blood vessels become more exposed to mechanical stress and hence can explode in the case of intense excercise or direct trauma. However always a complete workup must be done to exclude more serious diagnosis related to platelets and blood clotting factors that might also cause the same issue.
That is why you should do these tests : CBCD, PT,INR,PTT, bleeding time, peripheral smear. If all these tests are normal then there is nothing to worry about.
I would recommend the following tips also :
Immediatly after the appearance of the blood patch on your skin put cold compresses for about 20 minutes per hour for few hours, then the next day put warm compresses to help the resorption of the ecchymosis faster. Also the use of creams containing aloa vera might help the skin to become healthier and resistant to trauma.
Best regards
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What Causes Red Blotches On The Left Arm?

Dear Sir/Mam, I understand your concerns about the ecchymosis you have. It is true that this happens more with agem because the skin becomes thinner, the blood vessels become more exposed to mechanical stress and hence can explode in the case of intense excercise or direct trauma. However always a complete workup must be done to exclude more serious diagnosis related to platelets and blood clotting factors that might also cause the same issue. That is why you should do these tests : CBCD, PT,INR,PTT, bleeding time, peripheral smear. If all these tests are normal then there is nothing to worry about. I would recommend the following tips also : Immediatly after the appearance of the blood patch on your skin put cold compresses for about 20 minutes per hour for few hours, then the next day put warm compresses to help the resorption of the ecchymosis faster. Also the use of creams containing aloa vera might help the skin to become healthier and resistant to trauma. Best regards