Many illnesses and health conditions can present similar symptoms, creating difficulties in determining the underlying cause of rashes, bumps and itchy spots on the skin. While some rashes can cover your entire body, others can appear only on certain areas of your lower body such as your lower trunk, buttocks, legs and feet. Determining the cause of small red bumps on your lower body involves considering accompanying symptoms. For an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan, consult your doctor.
Symptoms
Little red bumps on your lower body can appear individually, be widespread or in clusters. While the appearance of small bumps might be the only symptom you notice, you might also experience itching or irritation. The bumps can change in size, color and shape, growing larger and flatter. Bumps may start out flesh-colored, changing to pink or red when you scratch them. Your skin condition can also spread to other areas of your body as it progresses.
Factors
Topical irritations can cause small skin bumps to appear over your lower body. According to DermNet NZ, a service of the New Zealand Dermatological Society, rashes that affect the lower legs are usually a type of dermatitis, often referred to as eczema. Heredity plays a role in dermatitis and flare-ups can occur if topical irritants touch your skin. Shaving or waxing your legs can also contribute to the appearance of little red spots. Known as folliculitis, these red spots are small areas of infection in the hair follicles.
Conditions
In addition to topical irritants, certain medical conditions include small bumps as a common symptom. Keratosis pilaris is an inherited skin condition that affects up to 40 percent of the population, according to the American Academy of Dermatologists. This condition can start as minuscule flesh-colored bumps that make your skin feel like sandpaper, later turning reddish in color. Pregnancy may produce tiny, itchy bumps that persist for several months, a condition called prurigo of pregnancy. Other conditions that can cause red bumps on the lower body include fungal infections, hives and psoriasis.
Precautions
While many small skin bumps resolve on their own, some types of rashes indicate the presence of a conditions that affect more than your skin. Although the rashes from internal diseases usually affect your whole body, they can start on your lower trunk, legs or feet. Reactions to certain medications such as antibiotics, narcotics and antifungal drugs can cause rashes, according to MayoClinic.com. Your doctor can help you determine the cause of your skin bumps and recommend the proper treatment.
Treatment
While medical treatments for skin bumps vary, depending on the cause of your particular condition, proper skin care can often soothe common types of rashes. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends avoiding hot water, using a mild soap and moisturizing dry skin. Avoid scratching your small red bumps.
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