Capillaries are tiny blood vessels that deliver oxygen and nutrients to cells while removing waste products. Given their widespread presence and fragile nature, it is common for a capillary to burst. This article explains what a burst capillary looks like and when to seek medical attention.
Identifying a Burst Capillary
A burst capillary on the skin typically appears as a small, discolored spot or patch resulting from blood leaking into the surrounding tissue. These spots are usually flat and do not blanch, meaning they do not temporarily turn white or lighter when pressure is applied, which distinguishes them from many rashes. The color can vary, often appearing red or purple, but may also be brown or black, gradually changing to yellow or green as the blood is reabsorbed by the body.
The size of a burst capillary can range from tiny, pinpoint dots, known as petechiae (less than 3 millimeters in diameter), to larger patches. Slightly larger areas, between 3 and 10 millimeters, are called purpura. When the bleeding is more extensive, forming a patch larger than 10 millimeters, it is referred to as ecchymosis, commonly known as a bruise. These spots may appear as irregular patches, sometimes forming web-like or spider-like patterns, particularly on the face.
Common locations for burst capillaries on the skin include the face, especially around the nose, cheeks, and chin, as well as the legs and hands. When a capillary bursts in the eye, it is known as a subconjunctival hemorrhage and manifests as a bright red or dark patch on the white part of the eye. While visually striking, these are usually painless and do not affect vision, though they might cause a scratchy sensation. Over time, the red patch in the eye will typically fade, often turning yellowish as it heals.
Under the nails, burst capillaries are called splinter hemorrhages. They appear as thin, red to reddish-brown lines that run vertically, resembling tiny splinters. These lines are usually 1 to 3 millimeters long and become darker, turning brown or black, a few days after their initial appearance. Splinter hemorrhages typically occur in the direction of nail growth.
Common Causes
Burst capillaries can result from a variety of factors, ranging from minor everyday occurrences to underlying medical situations. Physical trauma is a frequent cause, such as a bump, scrape, or vigorous rubbing of the skin, which can damage the small, delicate vessels. Even minor actions like picking at blemishes or applying harsh skincare treatments can lead to their appearance.
Straining activities can also increase pressure within capillaries, causing them to rupture. This includes forceful coughing, sneezing, vomiting, heavy lifting, or straining during bowel movements. Childbirth is another event that can involve significant straining and may result in burst capillaries.
Certain medical conditions can make individuals more susceptible to burst capillaries. Rosacea, a chronic skin condition, can cause visible blood vessels, particularly on the face. Liver disease, high blood pressure, and conditions affecting blood clotting, such as thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), may also contribute. Aging skin also becomes thinner and loses elasticity, making capillaries more prone to breakage and visibility.
Some medications can also increase the likelihood of burst capillaries. Blood thinners, such as aspirin or anticoagulants, can make bleeding under the skin more likely. Certain medications, including topical steroids, hormone medications, and vasodilators, might also contribute. Genetic predisposition, sun exposure, and hormonal fluctuations (e.g., during pregnancy or menopause) are also factors.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While many burst capillaries are harmless and resolve on their own, there are specific situations when it is important to seek medical advice. If a burst capillary is accompanied by other symptoms, such as pain, swelling, fever, or widespread bruising that appears without clear cause, it warrants a professional evaluation. Bleeding from other areas of the body, like the gums or nose, alongside burst capillaries, can also be a signal to consult a healthcare provider.
For burst capillaries in the eye, known as subconjunctival hemorrhages, medical attention is generally not needed if it is the only symptom. However, if the eye hemorrhage is associated with vision changes, eye discharge, sharp eye pain, or if it recurs frequently, a doctor should be consulted. Similarly, if splinter hemorrhages appear under the nails without a preceding injury, or if they are accompanied by symptoms like fever or general malaise, it can indicate an underlying condition requiring medical assessment.
If burst capillaries are very large, appear frequently without an obvious reason, or do not fade over time (typically within one to two weeks for eye hemorrhages, or longer for skin lesions), it is prudent to seek a medical opinion. Any concern about an underlying medical condition, such as a clotting disorder, liver issue, or other systemic disease, should prompt a visit to a healthcare professional. A medical professional can accurately diagnose the cause and recommend appropriate management.