Capillary fragility

Christopher Hobbs:

“Capillary fragility, leading to easy bruising and leaking blood vessels, can be caused by a nutritional deficiency. A strong diet rich in vitamin C and bioflavonoids, protein, and other nutrients is essential.”

Etiologic and Other Factors Leading to Capillary Fragility

Capillary fragility refers to the tendency of capillaries (small blood vessels) to break easily, resulting in bruising, petechiae (small red dots), or bleeding. Several factors can contribute to this condition:

1. Nutritional Deficiencies:
   • Lack of vitamin C (scurvy) weakens blood vessel walls.
   • Vitamin K deficiency affects clotting and vessel repair.
   • Low levels of bioflavonoids reduce capillary strength.
2. Aging:
   • Thinner skin and weaker capillaries are common with aging.
3. Chronic Conditions:
   • Hypertension: Increased blood pressure can strain capillaries.
   • Diabetes: Poor glucose control damages blood vessels.
   • Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus) can inflame or damage capillaries.
4. Medications:
   • Long-term use of corticosteroids weakens connective tissue.
   • Blood thinners like aspirin or warfarin increase bleeding risk.
5. Infections:
   • Certain viral infections (e.g., dengue, meningococcemia) can damage capillaries.
6. Inherited Conditions:
   • Disorders like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT).

When to Seek Professional Help

Consider seeing a healthcare provider if:

• Frequent, unexplained bruising or petechiae occur without known trauma.
• Symptoms are accompanied by bleeding gums, nosebleeds, or prolonged bleeding.
• You experience fatigue, fever, or weight loss, as these may indicate underlying systemic conditions.
• Capillary fragility worsens despite dietary or lifestyle changes.
• A sudden onset of severe symptoms, such as heavy bleeding or rash, occurs.