Have you ever noticed a cherry-red bump on your skin and wondered what it was? Chances are, it could be cherry angioma. Cherry angioma, also known as cherry hemangiomas, are small red or purple spots that can appear on the skin. They are harmless and usually painless but may be unsightly.
While cherry angiomas often occur in older adults as part of the normal aging process, they can affect people of all ages. It’s essential to understand what causes them, how to identify them if they do appear, and how to manage them properly.
That’s why, Today, In this article, we’ll look at what cherry angiomas are, their causes and symptoms, how they are diagnosed and treated, and when you should see a doctor for further evaluation.
What are cherry angiomas?
Cherry angiomas are benign (non-cancerous) skin lesions that are made up of small, cherry-red blood vessels. They usually appear as raised red spots on the skin and range in size from a pinhead to about 1/4 inch in diameter. They are most commonly found on the torso, arms, and legs but can appear anywhere.
What causes cherry angiomas?
The exact cause of cherry angioma is unknown, but several factors may make a person more likely to develop them. These include:
- Age – Cherry angiomas are often seen in adults over the age of 40
- Sun exposure – those who get a lot of suns are more likely to develop cherry angiomas
- Genetics – some individuals may have an inherited predisposition to cherry angiomas
- Certain medications and medical conditions can increase the risk of cherry angiomas.
What are the symptoms of cherry angiomas?
The most common symptoms of cherry angiomas are small, cherry-red spots on the skin. They often appear suddenly and may become more prominent or darker over time. Cherry angiomas are usually harmless, but if they become irritated, itchy, painful, or start to bleed, then you should see a doctor for further evaluation.
Related article: Skin Acne: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments, Prevention
How Are Cherry Angiomas Diagnosed?
Your doctor can usually diagnose cherry angiomas just by looking at them. In some cases, they may use a tool called a dermatoscope to take a closer look and ensure it is not something else. This can also help them determine if the cherry angioma needs to be treated or removed. If there is any suspicion of skin cancer, your doctor may perform a biopsy to collect cells from the cherry angioma. The cells will then be examined under a microscope to look for signs of cancer.
If you have cherry angiomas on your body, it is important to pay attention to any changes in size or color. If any new cherry angiomas or existing ones become larger and darker, let your doctor know immediately.
How Are Cherry Angiomas Treated?
Cherry angiomas are usually harmless and do not require treatment. However, if cherry angiomas become irritated or start to bleed or cause pain, your doctor may recommend that they be treated or removed.
Treatment options include:
1) Electrocautery: This procedure involves using a fine needle to deliver an electric current to the cherry angioma. The electric current burns away the cherry angioma. Some scarring may occur after electrocautery.
2) Cryotherapy: This procedure uses liquid nitrogen to freeze cherry angiomas and make them easier to remove. This method may be used if the cherry angioma is large or multiple cherry angiomas are present on the body.
3) Excision: This procedure involves removing cherry angiomas with a scalpel. It is usually reserved for cherry angiomas that are particularly large or bothersome.
4) Laser therapy: This procedure uses a laser to remove cherry angiomas. It is usually used when cherry angiomas are located in areas that cannot be easily removed with surgery.
Home remedies
In some cases, cherry angiomas can be treated at home with over-the-counter medications such as hydrocortisone cream. Applying the cream to the cherry angioma can help reduce inflammation and itching. Apple cider vinegar or tea tree oil may also be applied topically to cherry angiomas to reduce their size and redness.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you have cherry angiomas that is itchy, painful, bleeding, or changing in size or color, you should see your doctor for further evaluation. Your doctor may recommend treatment if cherry angiomas become bothersome or if there is any suspicion of skin cancer. It is essential to keep cherry angiomas regularly monitored by a healthcare professional.
Foods to Eat When You Have a Cherry Angioma
Some foods, supplements, and lifestyle changes may help reduce cherry angiomas. Foods rich in vitamin C can help protect the skin from sun damage, leading to cherry angiomas. Vitamin E is also important for skin health. Supplements such as flavonoids and curcumin have been found to be beneficial in reducing cherry angiomas. Additionally, avoiding direct sun exposure and wearing sunscreen when outdoors can help reduce cherry angiomas.
Examples of foods include:
- Oranges and other citrus fruits
- Strawberries
- Kale
- Spinach
- Broccoli
- Tomatoes
- Almonds and other nuts
- Grapes
- Yogurt
Conclusion:
Cherry angiomas are a common skin condition affecting people of any age. While cherry angiomas are usually harmless, it is essential to pay attention to them and seek medical advice if they become painful, bleeding, or change in size or color. By understanding the symptoms and causes of cherry angioma, as well as the different treatment options available, you can keep yourself informed and be sure to get help if needed. If you have cherry angiomas on your body, then make sure to talk with your doctor about how best to monitor them for changes over time.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Are cherry angiomas dangerous?
Cherry angiomas are usually benign and not dangerous. However, it is vital to monitor cherry angiomas for size, shape, or color changes and seek medical attention if needed.
How can I prevent cherry angiomas from forming?
The best way to prevent cherry angiomas is to protect your skin from UV rays by wearing sunscreen when outdoors and avoiding direct sun exposure. Additionally, eating foods rich in vitamins C and E, as well as taking supplements such as flavonoids and curcumin, may help reduce cherry angiomas.
Can cherry angiomas be removed?
In some cases, cherry angiomas can be removed using electrocautery, cryotherapy, excision, or laser therapy. Your doctor can recommend the best treatment for cherry angiomas on your body.
Are cherry angiomas contagious?
No, cherry angiomas are not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person. However, exposure to certain environmental factors, such as UV rays and certain chemicals, can increase the risk of cherry angiomas.
If you want to read for information about cherry angioma, read this article: What Is a Cherry Angioma: Causes, Treatment, and Removal