What Causes Severe Pressure In The Upper Arms?

Posted on Tue, 13 Sep 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 13 Sep 2016 Answered on

Mon, 3 Oct 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I have what looks like burst blood vessel on my upper inner arm ( about 2 inches long) . I noticed this when I woke up this morning. This happens every now and again usually on my upper arms and I notice this in the mornings. I think its due to the way i sleep as my head lies on my arm and causes pressure all night. Is this normal ? it usually clears up within a few days. I had some blood tests about 4 months ago as had some burst blood vessels on my wrist ( think this was due to using a screwdriver for hours as this is what DR thought as well) All the blood tests came back fine/normal ( tested for red and white cells, thickness of blood etc) Im 33 healthy, non smoker, not overweight

Answered by Dr. Hari Charan Perigela (37 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
It could be prominent blood vessel.

Detailed Answer:
Hi

As per your description, it looks like a prominent blood vessel,not a burst one.
A blood vessel cannot burst without injury. After burst,blood gets collected beneath the skin leading to haematoma. It usually resolves on its own.
The prominence of the blood vessel could be due to pressure effect. It gradually disappears.
If you still have any doubt, get a Colour doppler test of the affected limb. Kindly upload the photo of the lesion for me to view.
Nothing to worry.

Hope I answered your query. If you have any questions, I will clarify further.
Wish you good health.
Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Hari Charan Perigela (24 minutes later)

i will attach a photo for you to look at

thanks

Answered by Dr. Hari Charan Perigela (8 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
It looks like Primary Irritant Dermatitis

Detailed Answer:
Hi
I saw the pic
In the first instance,it looks like an Abrasion. As there is no history of trauma, it is excluded.
I have seen few patients presenting like this.It was Primary irritant dermatitis, commonly due to insect bite.
I prescribe ointment containing Antibiotic and Corticosteroid.
There is no need for colour doppler as the lesions are superficial.
Nothing to worry.
Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Hari Charan Perigela (28 minutes later)

thanks, the lesion isn't superficial though, it is under the skin. The skin is still smooth to touch on the surface

Answered by Dr. Hari Charan Perigela (59 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
You should consult a Dermatologist.

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Most of the diseases of the blood vessels over upper limb will have more vertical dimension.They will be prominent or tortuous beneath the skin.
In your case,the lines are transverse.
Please consult a Dermatologist , get examined clinically and get appropriate prescription.
Wish you good health.
Regards

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj