Red Spots on Legs

Red spots on skin is the most common symptom of all skin disorders. There are several causes behind red spots on skin, from infections to skin pigmentation to some severe underlying diseases. However, symptoms are often the same, i.e. red spots. Although, these spots may vary in size, shape and color, their basic characteristics remain the same. The occurrence of red spots is more on hands, legs and torso. This article gives an account of the various causes that lead to red spots on legs.

What Causes Red Spots on Legs

Red spots on skin, often termed as leg rashes can be red, purple or even silver in color. They can be flat, raised or bump like and may greatly vary in their size. While most of the causes of red spots given below are benign in nature, some of them may need immediate medical intervention. More so, if red spots are accompanied with other symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath etc. Let, us take a look at the various conditions that may cause red spots or leg rashes.

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Scleroderma
Scleroderma refers to a chronic condition which results in development of leg rashes. It is an autoimmune disorder and a protein called collagen is responsible for it. Collagen is actually responsible for tautness and elasticity of the skin. However, if produced in excess, it may lead to red spots and hardening of the skin. Initially, little red spots appear on legs, which then turn into blushes, if not treated on time. Scleroderma is a non-infectious disease and has no connection with cancer, whatsoever. It affects millions of people throughout the world.

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Psoriasis
If you have red spots on the legs that are surrounded by silver white scales, then psoriasis could be the cause behind it. This is another common skin disease which affects about 8 million people in US alone. Plaque psoriasis is the form of psoriasis which is most common. Psoriasis results when the skin cell production exceeds the normal levels. Psoriasis cannot be treated completely, but it can be controlled with the help of certain medications.

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Eczema
Eczema is an allergic response by the skin to certain irritations. It is a chronic skin condition which has little or no treatment. Eczema tends to appear in bouts, with alternate periods of skin rash and fairly healthy skin. Young children are the primary victims of eczema. However, eczema is rarely a cause of red spots on legs, as it tends to occur mostly on face and neck.

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Allergies
There are various types of allergies, and red spots on legs could be the result of any kind of allergy. Most insect bites result in red spots on legs that itch. However, allergies to bee sting or wasp sting could be more than just a normal skin rash. Big itchy bumps appear which are often accompanied by hives. Red spots on the legs due to insect bites mostly occur while trekking or camping, when you do not cover your legs properly. Similarly, allergies could be due to cosmetics or certain medications.

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Infections
Our skin is the first to report any kind of abnormality in our body. Infections are also the result of contamination of the body due to some external factors. Bacterial infection commonly leads to red lesions on the skin, which heal very slowly.

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Other Diseases
Other diseases such as diabetes, peripheral artery disease and varicose veins also lead to rash like bumps on legs. These bumps are purplish in color and form mainly due to poor blood circulation to the leg region.

Most times, you'll know what is the cause of red spots on legs since it may not be always a symptom of some severe disorder. Moreover, it is very unlikely that you'll only get red spots in localized area such as legs, unless it is due to insect bites, allergies or razor bumps. However, if you develop red spots all over the body, which do not respond to any medication or treatment, you should indeed consult a doctor, who will diagnose the underlying cause and initiate the corresponding treatment.