### What are Petechiae? Petechiae are tiny red, brown, or purple spots on the skin caused by bleeding under the skin. They can appear in clusters and may look like a rash. Unlike many rashes, petechiae do not turn white when you press on them. They can form anywhere on the body, including the face, neck, chest, eyelids, and inside the mouth. ### Causes of Petechiae Petechiae can be caused by various factors, including: - **Infections**: Viral infections (like CMV, flu), bacterial infections (like meningitis, strep throat), and fungal infections. - **Physical Strain**: Intense coughing, vomiting, childbirth, or heavy lifting. - **Medical Conditions**: Blood disorders (like leukemia), immune disorders (like ITP), and vitamin deficiencies (like scurvy). - **Medications**: Certain antibiotics, malaria drugs, seizure medications, blood thinners, antidepressants, NSAIDs, heart rhythm drugs, and sedatives. ### When to See a Doctor While petechiae are often harmless, they can sometimes indicate a serious condition. You should see a doctor if: - You or your child has petechiae with a fever. - The spots are accompanied by other symptoms like trouble breathing, confusion, or changes in consciousness. ### Diagnosis and Treatment A doctor will examine the rash and may perform blood and urine tests to determine the cause. Treatment depends on the underlying cause: - **Viral Infections**: The spots usually clear up as the infection goes away. - **Bacterial Infections**: Antibiotics may be needed. - **Serious Conditions**: Hospital treatment may be required, and you may need to see a specialist. ### Prevention To prevent petechiae, take good care of your health: - Practice good hygiene. - Avoid procedures that can lead to skin infections. - Ensure you get enough vitamins. - Get vaccinated to prevent certain infections. - Avoid mosquito and tick bites by wearing protective clothing and using insect repellent. ### Home Care If petechiae are caused by minor incidents like coughing or vomiting, you can manage them at home by resting and staying hydrated. However, it's always best to consult a doctor to rule out serious conditions.