Little bumps that are red in appearance can develop on the legs for a variety of reasons. Many environmental and medical conditions can contribute to their formation, including some that cannot be treated successfully without the aid of a doctor. Therefore it is important to understand the common causes and treatments of little red bumps on the leg area.
Symptoms
Small, red bumps on the legs can be accompanied by darkening of the skin, irritation, itching, pain and the appearance of an embedded hair. In addition, the bumps can be filled with a pus material. Flat, dry patches of skin can also be present. Besides the legs, these symptoms can appear on other areas of the body such as the scalp, back and arms.
Causes
The MayoClinic website explains that ingrown hairs on the legs can cause inflamed, red bumps to develop. This occurs when shaved or plucked hair curves back into the hair follicle as it grows back. Leg bumps can also be due to folliculitis, where a fungus or bacteria invades the skin surrounding a hair follicle. The skin conditions eczema and acne can also cause small bumps to appear on the legs. In addition, bumps or pimples can be symptoms of a heat rash.
Remedies
Red bumps on the legs can be remedied by washing the affected area with an antibacterial soap and applying an antibiotic ointment or 1 percent hydrocortisone cream. If the bump is the result of an ingrown hair, it can be treated by removing the embedded hair with a sterile needle. If the bumps are chronic or become infected, the Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center website explains that a doctor can prescribe an antifungal medication or oral antibiotic.
Prevention
To prevent folliculitis and ingrown hair bumps on the legs, it is important that the sufferer always shave in the direction her hair grows. She should also press a cool compress to her legs after hair removal to reduce inflammation and prevent red bumps. Bumps caused by eczema can be prevented by avoiding foods and conditions that trigger eczema symptoms. The AskDrSears website notes that these can include milk, eggs, pollen or pet dander.
Complications
Chronic folliculitis or ingrown hairs should not be left untreated. Doing so can result in bacterial infections, permanent scars and hyperpigmentation of the skin. People with eczema can be more susceptible to impetigo, a bacterial infection of the skin. This can cause the bumps to increase in redness and ooze a fluid that resembles honey. Although this condition is not a medical emergency, it must be treated by a doctor.
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