Those Little Red Dots on Your Skin Might Have a Reason — Here’s What to Know

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One of the most common explanations for tiny red spots is petechiae. These are small, flat red or purple dots that develop when tiny blood vessels beneath the skin break. Petechiae can appear after heavy coughing, vomiting, intense exercise, or even repeated sneezing. In many cases, they fade on their own without treatment.

Minor injuries or pressure on the skin can also cause these spots to appear temporarily. Certain medications may increase the likelihood of developing petechiae, although the dots themselves are often harmless unless accompanied by other symptoms such as unexplained bruising, fever, or persistent fatigue.