black marks on body - #15045
I am really freaking out about these black marks on my body. Last week, I noticed a couple small spots on my arms and now it’s like they're spreading! They kinda look like bruises but they don’t hurt and I haven’t bumped into anything or anything like that. I thought maybe I should just wait and see if they go away, but then they got darker and there’s more of them. I’ve gotta be honest, I've been under a lot of stress lately, and I don't know if that could be a factor? Plus, I have a family history of skin issues, and I keep thinking, what if these black marks on my body are serious? Like, is it possible they’re a sign of something deeper? I looked online and found stuff ranging from harmless age spots to, you know, something way worse. Do I need to get checked out? Is it normal for black marks on the body to just appear out of nowhere? Also, could these black marks be related to any medications I’m taking? I mean, I read that side effects can show up weird sometimes. Ugh, I just don’t know. Any thoughts would really help!
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Doctors’ responses
When you notice new marks on your skin that are spreading or changing, it’s definitely wise to consider having them checked out, especially since they’ve become darker. While stress itself is unlikely to cause such skin changes directly, it can indirectly affect your body in various ways. Given your family history of skin issues, these marks may be related to a benign condition like petechiae, which are small hemorrhages under the skin, or even a dermatological condition like lentigines (which are essentially age spots). However, it’s also possible that they could be related to more significant health issues, like a bleeding disorder or a skin infection, so it’s important not to overlook them. Medications can indeed cause skin changes, although these are often listed among the medication’s side effects. Blood thinners or any new medication might be relevant here, as they could contribute to bruising-like symptoms. What I would strongly recommend is scheduling an appointment with a healthcare provider—preferably a dermatologist who specializes in skin conditions. They can evaluate these marks to determine their nature and whether they’re harmless or require further investigation. They’ll be able to take into account your personal medical history, any recent changes in medication, and conduct a physical examination. They’ll likely ask about any other symptoms, your medical background, and may perform or order additional diagnostic tests if necessary. Doing this sooner rather than later is advisable, as early diagnosis can be crucial, especially if there’s an underlying issue that needs addressing. This step will not only help ensure your immediate health but also provide some peace of mind by clarifying any underlying causes.
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