When you notice little red skin bumps on your body they may be accompanied with a variety of other symptoms, including itchiness and pain. Before you slather on ointment or attempt to get rid of the bumps, it's important that you understand what your bumps could be and if you should be worried. Your doctor is the only person who can diagnose a skin problem according to the shape, symptoms and type of red bumps you have.
Types
The types of red bumps that could appear on your skin vary depending on the cause of the bumps and your ultimate diagnosis. When you notice little red bumps on your skin they could appear as pustules, pimply spots, a scattering of red bumps, a rash, blotches or even a welt, notes Dr. William Sears, associate clinical professor of pediatrics at the University of California, Irvine, School of Medicine. Each signifies a different type of skin condition.
Symptoms
Along with visible bumps, you may also be plagued with an itchy, hot feeling, much like a rash. Some bumps could ooze a discharge, while others simply are embarrassing to look at. You may also experience a high fever and even nausea, depending on the type of red bumps you have and their causes.
Causes
Red bumps have a variety of causes, and your doctor will be the one to correctly diagnose your skin condition. Some possible causes include an allergic reaction, friction, keratosis pilaris, dermatitis, heat rash and even cysts. Each condition lists small, red bumps as a symptom. If you know that you have sensitive skin and you see an increase in red bumps when you use a new product, you're probably having an allergic reaction. Otherwise, you'll need to see your doctor for a diagnosis.
Treatment
Treating little red skin bumps begins with prevention. If you know that your skin reacts badly to certain ingredients, it's important to avoid them. Otherwise, you can treat your skin bumps by applying cool compresses to the area and applying doctor-recommended ointments to help stop the bumps, the American Academy of Family Physicians notes. Avoid scratching or touching your bumps, which could break them open and result in infection and irritation.
Medical Care
When your red skin bumps don't seem to go away on their own or they cause pain and irritation, it's time to make an appointment with your doctor. She can diagnose the rash and prescribe topical ointments and skin care procedures that can help get rid of little red skin bumps and prevent them from affecting you in the future.
