When Should I Be Worried About a Hemangioma?

Jul 7
2023

When should I be worried about a hemangioma? This is a question that many parents ask themselves when they notice a red birthmark on their child’s skin. Hemangiomas are quite common in infants, and in most cases, they are harmless and will disappear on their own. However, in some cases, hemangiomas can cause concern and require medical attention.

What is a Hemangioma?

Hemangiomas are growths of blood vessels in the skin. They often appear as a red or purple birthmark and can proliferate during the first few months of life. Hemangiomas can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the face, scalp, chest and back.

Most hemangiomas are harmless and will disappear independently when the child is five years old. However, there are some cases where a hemangioma can cause complications. For example, if a hemangioma is located near the eye, it can cause vision problems. If it is located near the airway, it can cause breathing difficulties. In some cases, a hemangioma can also cause bleeding or ulceration.

Causes for Concern Over Hemangiomas

When should you be worried about a hemangioma? If your child’s hemangioma is causing any of the following symptoms, you should have it examined by a specialist at The Vascular Birthmark Center in New York.

1. Ulceration – If the hemangioma has broken open and is bleeding or oozing fluid, it can become infected and require treatment.
2. Pain – If the hemangioma is causing your child pain, seeking medical attention is important. Pain can signify that the hemangioma is growing rapidly or in a sensitive area.
3. Vision problems – If the hemangioma is near the eye, it can cause vision problems. If your child is experiencing any vision changes, seeking medical attention is essential.
4. Breathing difficulties – If the hemangioma is near the airway, it can cause breathing difficulties. If your child is experiencing breathing problems, seek medical attention from a vascular birthmark specialist immediately.
5. Rapid growth – If the hemangioma is growing rapidly, seeking medical attention is essential. Rapid growth can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition.

If your child’s hemangioma is not causing any symptoms, it’s okay to wait and monitor it over time. However, if you are ever concerned about your child’s health, it’s always best to seek the advice of a vascular birthmark specialist. Our talented team at The Vascular Birthmark Center can examine the hemangioma and determine if any treatment is necessary.

Superior Specialist Birthmark Care in New York

Hemangiomas are a common birthmark in infants and are usually harmless. However, in some cases, they can cause complications. If your child’s hemangioma is causing any symptoms or if you have any concerns about your child’s health, don’t hesitate to contact us in New York. Our specialists can perform an exam and provide guidance and support to ensure your child receives the best possible care.