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Dermatology (Expert Forum)
Large and small red spots and flushed face
Answered by
Alan Rockoff, MD - dermatology, Child Skin Problems
The Rockoff Dermatology Center
Brookline - MA
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Large and small red spots and flushed face
by SAL, Jun 08, 2000 12:00AM
For the last few months, I have noticed two kinds of red "spots" on my skin.
One type appears suddenly, ranging from 1/2 to 1 inch in diameter with lighter, indistinct edges. These do not hurt or itch. I have found them primarily on my breasts, armpits, upper arms and thighs. They fade to a brownish color (similar to a bruise) and then disappear in a few days. At any one time, I may have 3 or 4 of them.
The second type are small red spots that appear over all parts of my body. There are many of them, and they come and go. They do not hurt or itch, nor do they "come to a head" like pimples do, though if scratched, they will occasionally bleed, but not normally.
In addition, I also have-at different times of the day-a very red face, more blotchy than like a rash. I would not be aware of it unless I looked in the mirror, or someone says "boy your face is red!" This has been going on for a few years. I never asked a doctor about it, and it is probably not related to the red spots, so it may or may not be helpful.
I am a 50-year old woman. I believe I am in peri-menopause, which may or may not have anything to do with this. I also have multiple sclerosis (secondary progressive) diagnosed five years ago at UCLA Medical Center. I am currently taking Baclofen for muscle spasms, ditropan for bladder problems and cylert to help improve my energy level. I am not currently using any MS "ABC" treatments (beta interferons or glatramiter acetate.)
I would like to know whether or not this warrants a doctor visit. (I have enough of those with the MS! So, I can't be bothered unless these things are a sign of something that could be potentially serious.)
Thank you very much!
One type appears suddenly, ranging from 1/2 to 1 inch in diameter with lighter, indistinct edges. These do not hurt or itch. I have found them primarily on my breasts, armpits, upper arms and thighs. They fade to a brownish color (similar to a bruise) and then disappear in a few days. At any one time, I may have 3 or 4 of them.
The second type are small red spots that appear over all parts of my body. There are many of them, and they come and go. They do not hurt or itch, nor do they "come to a head" like pimples do, though if scratched, they will occasionally bleed, but not normally.
In addition, I also have-at different times of the day-a very red face, more blotchy than like a rash. I would not be aware of it unless I looked in the mirror, or someone says "boy your face is red!" This has been going on for a few years. I never asked a doctor about it, and it is probably not related to the red spots, so it may or may not be helpful.
I am a 50-year old woman. I believe I am in peri-menopause, which may or may not have anything to do with this. I also have multiple sclerosis (secondary progressive) diagnosed five years ago at UCLA Medical Center. I am currently taking Baclofen for muscle spasms, ditropan for bladder problems and cylert to help improve my energy level. I am not currently using any MS "ABC" treatments (beta interferons or glatramiter acetate.)
I would like to know whether or not this warrants a doctor visit. (I have enough of those with the MS! So, I can't be bothered unless these things are a sign of something that could be potentially serious.)
Thank you very much!
Doctor's Answer
by Alan Rockoff, MD, Jun 08, 2000 12:00AM
, Jun 08, 2000 12:00AM
Sal:
Your description doesn't sound like anything in particular, but it also doesn't sound serious or systemic. They may be folliculitis ("clogged pores"), a common an ignorable condition many people get. I'd show the skin to your regular physician next time you go, but I doubt you'll have to do anything about it.
Best.
Dr. R
Your description doesn't sound like anything in particular, but it also doesn't sound serious or systemic. They may be folliculitis ("clogged pores"), a common an ignorable condition many people get. I'd show the skin to your regular physician next time you go, but I doubt you'll have to do anything about it.
Best.
Dr. R
***@**** THANKS