Over time, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays weakens the connective tissues that hold the blood vessels in their place. This weakness makes the blood vessels fragile, which means that even after a minor bump, red blood cells can leak into the deeper layers of the skin, causing the distinctive purpura to appear.

Why do old peoples arms turn purple?

“That is why elderly tend to have frail skin,” continues Dr. Besser. “Since there is less cushion, the superficial blood vessels are closer to the surface of the skin (and are also more fragile), so they break more easily. “That is what causes the bruising: leakage of blood into the skin and tissues beneath the skin.”

Why do I get purple blotches on my arms?

Purpura, often called Senile Purpura, are a common benign condition of recurrent bruises that form on the backs of the hands as well as the tops of the forearms and shins as a result of minor trauma.

How do I get rid of senile purpura?

How is senile purpura treated? In most cases, there is no treatment required for senile purpura. However, some people dislike the appearance of the bruises and seek treatment. Your doctor can prescribe topical retinoids that thicken your skin to prevent further skin aging.

What do purple blotches on skin mean?

Purpura occurs when small blood vessels burst, causing blood to pool under the skin. This can create purple spots on the skin that range in size from small dots to large patches. Purpura spots are generally benign, but may indicate a more serious medical condition, such as a blood clotting disorder.

Why do old people’s arms bruise easily?

According to the Mayo Clinic, skin becomes thinner with age, resulting in a smaller barrier between skin and the blood vessels that burst to cause bruising. Skin also loses some of its fatty layer as the body ages, and this fatty layer cushions blood vessels, allowing them to absorb impact rather than burst.

What medications cause purpura?

Other drugs associated with drug purpura include the following:

• Antibiotics (eg, cephalosporins, rifampicin)
• Gold salts.
• Analgesics.
• Neuroleptics.
• Diuretics.
• Antihypertensives.

When should I be concerned about purpura?

Patients who experience purpura with any of the following symptoms should seek medical treatment: Low platelet count, which may lead to increased bleeding after an injury, bleeding gums or nose, or blood in urine or bowel movements. Sore, swollen joints, particularly in the ankles and knees.

Is purpura an emergency?

Purpura fulminans is a rare, life-threatening disease state, classically defined as a cutaneous marker of disseminated intravascular coagulation, which can be present in both infective and non-infective disease states [1].

What is the difference between purpura and senile purpura?

Purpura refers to purplish cutaneous or mucosal lesions caused by hemorrhage. Small lesions (< 2 mm) are termed petechiae, and large lesions are termed ecchymoses or bruises. Senile purpura typically affects older patients as their dermal tissues atrophy and blood vessels become more fragile.

What is often the cause of senile purpura?

Aging skin is thought to be the most common cause of senile purpura. As the body ages, the skin becomes thinner and more delicate. Over time, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays weakens the connective tissues that hold the blood vessels in their place.

What vitamin is lacking when you bruise easily?

Low on Vitamin C This essential vitamin helps make collagen, an important protein that keeps your blood vessels healthy. If you don’t get enough vitamin C in your diet, you may notice that you bruise easily.

How do I get rid of purple bruises on my arms?

The following treatments can be done at home:

1. Ice therapy. Apply ice immediately after the injury to reduce blood flow around the area.
2. Heat. You can apply heat to boost circulation and increase blood flow.
3. Compression. Wrap the bruised area in an elastic bandage.
4. Elevation.
5. Arnica.
6. Vitamin K cream.
7. Aloe vera.
8. Vitamin C.

Can taking aspirin cause purpura?

Do not take NSAIDs, aspirin, or blood thinner medicine. These medicines can make purpura worse. Ask your healthcare provider how long you need to stop these medicines.

What helps with bruising in elderly?

Apply a cold compress to the bruise for 20 minutes to reduce the blood flow to the area. This may reduce the size of the bruise and decrease inflammation. Elevate the bruised area if at all possible. Wrapping the area with a compression bandage can help decrease swelling.