Step 3: Review recent changes
Think about whether the person has recently:
Started a medication or changed a dose
Had a recent illness or fever
Experienced repeated coughing or vomiting
Developed unusual bruising or bleeding
Had similar spots before
Write down any relevant details and bring a list of medications, including over-the-counter products and supplements, if medical evaluation is needed.
Step 4: Arrange appropriate medical care
Do not spend the next half hour repeatedly pressing the spots, searching for creams, or waiting for the rash to change color.
If there are emergency warning signs, get emergency help immediately. If the person feels well but has new, unexplained, spreading non-blanching spots, arrange urgent medical evaluation.
Avoid starting aspirin or ibuprofen specifically to treat the spots unless a healthcare professional advises you to do so. These medicines can affect bleeding, and the appropriate choice depends on the person’s circumstances.
- How Are Petechiae Diagnosed and Treated?
Treatment depends on what caused the bleeding beneath the skin.
A healthcare professional will typically ask when the spots appeared, whether they are spreading, what medications the person takes, and whether other symptoms or recent illnesses are present.
