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Purpura: Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and More

Written by Resurchify | Updated on: January 12, 2023

Purpura: Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and More

With the help of this article, you will learn everything you need to know about Purpura. You will learn why the purpura develops and how the external environment can affect the purpura. You will also get to know how you can determine whether you are suffering from purpura or not.

During harsh winter weather, you might have seen purple-colored spots are developed on your skin. Especially on your arms and legs. Sometimes, the spots disappear over time. But sometimes it might require proper medical treatment to reduce the purple spots.

The condition is known as Purpura. It is a skin disorder that can be chronic or severe in some cases. Therefore, proper treatment is required on time so that you can save yourself from chronic purpura development.

Also, we will tell you the correct and efficient way how you can treat purpura and save yourself from further deterioration of the condition. 

The food we eat affects the overall health of our bodies. Hence, if you are suffering from Purpura, you also need to take proper care of your diet. Therefore, you will also learn about the food you should eat during purpura and the foods that you should avoid for purpura.

What is Purpura?

Purpura is a condition caused by bleeding under the skin, which causes purple bruises or spots on the skin. It is most commonly caused by a breakdown of the blood vessels, which can be caused by infections, autoimmune disorders, medications, and other medical conditions.

Usually when we do high-intensity workouts or are hit by something hard, a blackish or purplish spot develops on the area of the skin that was under impact. This condition is called blood clotting. The blood clot automatically heals over time by itself. But often you can confuse yourself with purpura and normal blood clot.

Purpura is completely different from the blood clot we often suffer on several grounds. Purpura is even more dangerous than a blood clot. The main reason for purpura to occur is fractures of blood vessels. They can spread over time developing themselves into a more chronic condition. 

Also, Purpura is mostly related to the overall immunity of your body. Therefore, if you have a weak immune system, you are likely to develop Purpura. To save yourself from developing purpura, you need to take care of your gut health also.

We will discuss later how you can prevent purpura in the upcoming sections of the diet you need to follow to avoid purpura.

Moreover, you will be surprised to know that in some cases purpura is a side effect of an overdose of some types of drugs. Often when a patient undergoes major surgery, he or she is administered several medications. Some types of medicines can lead to thinning of the walls of the blood vessels. The weakness of these walls causes the blood vessels to break hence leading to purpura.

Purpura is a common side-effect for patients suffering from dengue. The dengue virus dilutes our blood and disrupts the hemoglobin content in our blood. When our blood is diluted too much, blood vessels start to explode especially in our arms and legs. 

These tiny bursts of blood vessels if not treated on time develop into purpura. The purpura causes an extensive sensation of itching in the affected area of our skin. We need to make sure that we avoid itching and scratching because if we touch an affected area, the condition of the purpura can worsen.

How Is Purpura Different From Blood Clotting?

You now know how you can distinguish blood clotting from purpura and save yourself from a terrible mishap. But there are certain other things as well that you need to consider while self diagnosing purpura.

Firstly, Purpura is a condition in which small blood vessels burst, causing bleeding under the skin and appearing as purple spots. Whereas, Blood clotting is a process that helps stop bleeding. It occurs when platelets, a type of blood cell, clump together to form a clot over an injured blood vessel, which stops or slows the bleeding.

This means that purpura is a condition that worsens over time. But blood clotting is something that is a natural healing process of our body that heals itself over some time. The usual time that is taken by the blood to clot itself is a week. But if you observe that your bruise or skin spot is not healing, instead it is getting enlarged day by day, it is likely because you might be suffering from purpura.

In that case, you must visit a doctor or a dermatologist to check yourself. 

Causes of Purpura

You know the brief about the skin condition called Purpura. Purpura is a condition characterized by the appearance of bruises or purple spots on the skin that do not disappear when pressure is applied. It is caused by several underlying conditions, which include:

Thrombocytopenia

A condition characterized by a decrease in the number of platelets in the blood, which can lead to excessive bleeding and bruising. It is a condition characterized by a low number of platelets in the blood. 

Platelets are an important part of the blood clotting process and are necessary for normal clotting and the prevention of bleeding. People with thrombocytopenia may have frequent small bruises, nosebleeds, and/or more serious bleeding from the gums, gastrointestinal tract, or other parts of the body. 

Treatment for thrombocytopenia depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, the condition can be managed with medications, while in others, a blood transfusion may be necessary.

Von Willebrand Disease

Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is a hereditary bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency or malfunction of the von Willebrand factor (VWF). VWF is a protein that helps blood clot. Therefore, it affects the production of a specific protein that is needed for the blood to clot properly.

Symptoms of VWD can range from mild to severe and may include nosebleeds, heavy menstrual bleeding, easy bruising, and bleeding gums. Treatment for VWD is based on the severity of the disorder and may include medications and lifestyle changes.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

An autoimmune disorder that can result in inflammation and damage to various parts of the body, including the blood vessels. (SLE) affects the body's immune system and mistakenly attacks healthy tissue in many parts of the body. 

Symptoms of SLE include skin rashes, joint pain, fatigue, fever, and anemia. Treatment for SLE typically includes a combination of medications, such as corticosteroids, antimalarial drugs, and immunosuppressants, as well as lifestyle changes such as getting adequate rest and avoiding sunlight.

Certain Medications

Some medications, such as aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, can cause purpura as a side effect. There is another type of medicine as well that can result in purpura.

  • Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause a condition known as purpura, which is caused by a decrease in the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are hormones that help regulate the constriction and dilation of blood vessels. 

When the production of prostaglandins is inhibited, blood vessels may become constricted, causing a decrease in the amount of blood flowing to the skin and other organs. This can lead to purplish discoloration of the skin, as well as other symptoms such as bruising, bleeding, and inflammation.

  • Corticosteroids 

Corticosteroids can cause purpura by impairing the normal functioning of the cells that line small blood vessels. This can result in a weakening of the vessel wall, leading to bleeding, which manifests as a purplish rash. 

The long-term use of corticosteroids can also lead to a thinning of the skin, which makes it more prone to bruising and purpura. Other side effects of corticosteroid use include skin atrophy, increased risk of infection, and increased risk of skin cancer.

  • Antibiotics 

Antibiotics can cause purpura if they interfere with the body's normal blood clotting process. When the body's clotting process is impaired, blood vessels can become weakened and can burst, resulting in purpura. In some cases, antibiotics may also cause an allergic reaction which can lead to purpura.

  • Anticonvulsants 

Anticonvulsants can cause purpura by increasing the risk of bleeding. Anticonvulsants can increase the risk of bleeding by decreasing platelet levels, which can lead to decreased platelet activity and increased platelet fragility. This can lead to increased bleeding and, in some cases, purpura.

  • Anticoagulants 

Anticoagulants (such as warfarin and heparin) work by preventing the formation of blood clots. This can lead to a condition called purpura, which is a collection of small, red bruises on the skin. These bruises are caused by a decrease in the blood's ability to clot, which results in extra bleeding under the skin. This extra bleeding can cause the skin to become discolored and tender and can cause pain and swelling.

  • Biologics 

Purpura, or blood spots under the skin, is a common side effect of biologics, a type of drug used to treat certain autoimmune diseases. Purpura is caused by a decrease in the production of platelets, which are cells that help with blood clotting. 

This decrease happens when biologics interfere with the natural production of platelets, which can cause the blood to leak into the skin, resulting in purpura.

  • Chemotherapeutic drugs 

Purpura is a condition that can be caused by chemotherapeutic drugs. Chemotherapeutic drugs work by targeting rapidly dividing cells, such as cancer cells. However, these drugs can also damage healthy cells, such as those found in the lining of blood vessels. When this happens, the blood vessels become damaged and can leak. This can cause purpura, which is when red or purple spots appear on the skin.

  • Immunosuppressants 

Immunosuppressant medications reduce the body's ability to fight infection. This can lead to an increased risk of infection, which in turn can lead to purpura. Purpura occurs when tiny blood vessels, called capillaries, rupture and leak red blood cells into the skin. This can cause discolored patches that are purple or red. Immunosuppressants can also interfere with the body's ability to form clots, which can worsen purpura.

  • Antihistamines 

Antihistamines can cause purpura by interfering with the normal functioning of the immune system. This can happen in a few different ways. First, antihistamines can block the production of histamine, a chemical produced by the body when it is exposed to an allergen. This can lead to decreased inflammation, which can cause a decrease in the production of antibodies and other immune system components that help fight off infection. 

Additionally, antihistamines can interfere with the body's ability to properly clot blood, leading to an increased risk of purpura, which is a condition characterized by small, purple lesions on the skin caused by broken blood vessels.

  • ACE Inhibitors 

ACE inhibitors are used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and other conditions. However, they can also cause a serious side effect known as purpura. This occurs when the drug interferes with the production of angiotensin II, a hormone that helps regulate blood vessel constriction. 

When angiotensin II levels are low, the body may be unable to constrict the blood vessels properly, leading to an increased risk of bleeding and bruising. This can result in purpura, which is characterized by red or purple blotches on the skin.

  • Thiazide Diuretics

Thiazide diuretics can cause purpura, or a condition in which tiny blood vessels break and cause bruising or discoloration of the skin, due to their effect on blood vessels. By decreasing the blood volume, thiazide diuretics can cause a decrease in the pressure of the blood vessels, leading to their rupture and the formation of purpura.

Infections

Bacterial, fungal, and viral infections can cause inflammation of the blood vessels and result in purpura. Infections can cause purpura by releasing substances such as toxins, enzymes, and inflammatory chemicals into the bloodstream. These substances can cause a reaction in the blood vessels, leading to the formation of small, damaged blood vessels on the skin's surface. These damaged blood vessels can leak blood, resulting in red or purple spots. 

Infections can also cause an increase in the number of cells that stick together in the blood vessels, which can make them more prone to damage and leakage.

Immune System Disorders

Conditions such as leukemia and lymphoma can cause the immune system to attack healthy cells, leading to the formation of purpura. Immune system disorders can cause purpura by interfering with the body's ability to produce and maintain normal levels of platelets. 

When platelets are low, the body is unable to adequately clot blood, which can cause purpura, or bleeding into the skin. This can be caused by conditions such as lupus, HIV, and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). Other immune system disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can also cause purpura by causing inflammation and damaging the walls of capillaries, which can lead to bleeding into the skin.

How To Diagnose Purpura?

Purpura is diagnosed through a physical exam, medical history, and laboratory tests. The doctor will examine the skin to identify any abnormal spots or bruises. The medical history will assess any possible triggers, such as medications, underlying medical conditions, or injuries. 

In addition, laboratory tests may be used to rule out other conditions, such as autoimmune diseases or an infection. Depending on the suspected cause, the doctor may order additional tests, such as a complete blood count, coagulation tests, or a skin biopsy.

How To Treat Purpura?

Treatment for purpura depends on the underlying cause. Treatment options may include: 

Steroid Medications, Such As Prednisone, To Reduce Inflammation

Steroid medications can be used to treat purpura by reducing inflammation in the affected area, which can help reduce the severity of the purpura. Steroids can also help to reduce the risk of infection and other complications associated with purpura. Steroids may be administered orally, intravenously, or topically, depending on the severity of the condition.

Blood-Thinning Medications, Such As Aspirin Or Heparin, Help Prevent Clots.

Aspirin is commonly used to treat purpura, a condition characterized by small purple or red spots on the skin. Aspirin has anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant properties, which can help reduce inflammation, stop bleeding, and prevent platelet aggregation—all of which are involved in purpura. Aspirin can also help reduce the risk of further damage to blood vessels and tissue. 

However, it is important to note that aspirin should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional and that it can interact with other medications and increase the risk of side effects.

Platelet Transfusions To Replace Deficient Platelets.

Platelet transfusions are commonly used to treat purpura, which is a condition characterized by a decrease in the number of platelets in the blood. This can lead to a decrease in the clotting factor in the body, making it difficult for the body to form clots and stop bleeding. 

Platelet transfusions help to increase the number of platelets in the blood, helping to restore the clotting factor and help stop bleeding. Platelet transfusions are also used to help prevent purpura from getting worse or recurring.

Intravenous Immunoglobulin (ivig) To Help Boost The Immune System.

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is a therapy that is used to treat a variety of autoimmune diseases, including purpura. IVIG is a blood product obtained from the plasma of healthy donors that contains antibodies that can help the body fight off an autoimmune attack.

In the case of purpura, IVIG works by providing the body with antibodies that can help to reduce inflammation, improve blood clotting, and reduce the severity of symptoms. It is effective in improving the quality of life and reducing the risk of complications associated with purpura.

Antibiotics, If The Cause Is An Infection.

Antibiotics can be used to treat purpura in some cases. Depending on the underlying cause, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat infections, such as bacterial skin infections or other bacterial infections. The type of antibiotic prescribed will depend on the specific bacteria causing the infection. In some cases, antibiotics may not be necessary and other treatments, such as topical creams, may be used to treat purpura.

Surgery, If The Cause Is A Tumor Or Vascular Malformation.

Treatment for purpura depends on the underlying cause, and in some cases, surgery may be necessary. If a tumor or a vascular abnormality is causing the purpura, the surgical removal of the tumor or the abnormal vessel may be recommended. In other cases, surgery may be used to correct a damaged blood vessel or to remove a clot that is causing the purpura.

Light Therapy, Such As Phototherapy, To Reduce Inflammation.

A phototherapy is a treatment option that can be used to treat purpura. It involves exposing the affected area to ultraviolet (UV) light. UV light helps reduce the inflammation and production of abnormal blood vessels that can cause purpura. Phototherapy can help reduce the severity of purpura and is often used in combination with other treatments, such as topical corticosteroids.

Ultraviolet Light Treatments To Help Reduce The Size Of Purpura Spots

Ultraviolet light treatments are sometimes used to treat purpura, a condition in which small blood vessels become weakened, leading to the formation of purple-colored spots on the skin.

These treatments are typically used to reduce inflammation and improve circulation, which can help to reduce the appearance of the spots. In some cases, ultraviolet light treatments may also help to reduce skin discoloration and improve the overall appearance of the skin.

Vitamin C And Other Supplements To Help Strengthen The Immune System.

Vitamin C may help reduce the severity and duration of purpura by aiding the body in repairing damaged capillaries. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation and strengthens the capillaries, which can help to reduce the bleeding associated with purpura. 

Additionally, Vitamin C is involved in collagen production, which helps to strengthen and support the walls of the capillaries. Vitamin C can also help promote healing of the damaged skin. Vitamin C can be taken in supplement form or consumed through food sources such as oranges, grapefruits, and other citrus fruits.

Conclusion

Purpura is a type of chronic skin disease that can be minimized if we treat it properly and on time.


         

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