Discovering blood spots on skin after exercise can often lead to worry. In this detailed guide, we take you through a deep dive into understanding why they occur and the practical steps you can take to handle this phenomenon effectively.
Table of Contents
What Causes Blood Spots on Skin After Exercise?
When you notice blood spots on skin after exercise, it’s usually a manifestation of underlying causes, which may range from physical strain to side effects of medication. It is critical to understand these causes to address them correctly and prevent future occurrences. Let’s delve deeper into each cause.
Physical Strain
Vigorous activities, such as high-intensity interval training or heavy weight lifting, can cause an abrupt increase in blood pressure. This surge in pressure can rupture the small blood vessels, called capillaries, leading to the appearance of blood spots on skin after exercise, scientifically known as petechiae. [Source]
It is recommended to monitor your workout intensity to prevent undue strain on your blood vessels. Understanding this mechanism is vital in adopting a balanced approach to your fitness routine.
Tight Clothing
Wearing clothes that tightly grip your skin can obstruct normal blood flow, causing the delicate capillaries near the skin surface to burst. This can lead to the appearance of blood spots on skin after exercise.
It is advisable to opt for workout attire that is breathable and not too constricting to facilitate better blood circulation and prevent pressure points that can lead to blood spots.
Medication Side Effects
Certain medications can affect the strength and flexibility of your blood vessels, making them more prone to rupture during physical strain.
If you notice the development of blood spots on skin after exercise and you are on medication, it might be beneficial to consult with your healthcare provider to discuss possible alterations to your medication or workout routine. [Source]
Are These Blood Spots Dangerous?
Encountering blood spots on skin after exercise can indeed be distressing. While it is generally not a dangerous phenomenon, it is crucial to differentiate between a harmless occurrence and a symptom of a more serious condition. Let’s help you understand when it is normal and when you should seek medical advice:
In most instances, these spots are benign and fade away on their own within a few days without causing any discomfort or pain. They are simply the result of minor ruptures in the blood vessels under your skin.
However, if you notice other symptoms accompanying these blood spots, such as severe pain, fever, or signs of infection, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider promptly to rule out any serious issues.
Regular occurrence of these spots can sometimes indicate underlying health problems that require medical attention.
How to Treat Blood Spots on Skin After Exercise
Although these blood spots typically resolve themselves over time, you might be looking for ways to speed up the healing process or prevent a recurrence. In this section, we share comprehensive treatment and prevention strategies to help you manage this issue effectively:
Rest and Recovery
Taking a step back and reducing the intensity of your workouts can sometimes be all that is needed. By avoiding activities that excessively elevate your blood pressure, you can prevent the rupture of small blood vessels.
It is beneficial to give your body adequate time to recover and heal naturally.
Topical Treatments
In some cases, applying over-the-counter creams containing vitamin K can aid in fading the spots more swiftly. Vitamin K is known to assist in the healing of blood vessels. However, always do a patch test first to ensure you do not have an allergic reaction to the cream. [Source]
Wearing Loose Clothing
As a preventive measure, opt for workout clothes that allow for proper blood circulation. Loose clothing prevents undue pressure on the skin, reducing the chances of capillary rupture and, consequently, the appearance of blood spots on skin after exercise.
Check out these other articles…
Itchy Skin After Exercise: Why It Happens & How to Stop It
Rash on Skin After Exercise: 4 Easy Tips to Prevent & Treat
My Skin Looks Better After Exercise: Why This Happens
Bumps on Skin After Exercise: Causes, Types, & Prevention
Salt on Skin After Exercise: Why It Happens & What to Do
When to Consult a Doctor
If you find that the blood spots are persisting for a longer duration, say more than a week, or if you start experiencing other symptoms such as an unexplained bruise, it becomes essential to consult with a healthcare provider. Continuous occurrences could potentially indicate an underlying health issue that needs attention.
