<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>> Thanks to all who responded. It is always nice to know that one is not imagining things. I received many excellent suggestions summarized below and am already trying the Vitamin C treatment! Barb Summary: 1)Vein fragility due to aging? Increase in collagen intake to strengthen vein walls;i.e., Knox gelatin and an increase in Vitamin K to aid clotting. 2)Take Vitamin K supplement when this happens for a couple of weeks and then am good for awhile. Statins can also be linked to bleeding. 3)Limit intake of aspirin or acetaminophen or any blood thinner. Could be related to aging. 4)Many differing opinions on whether it was related to gluten. 5)Try Vitamin C anywhere from 500 mg to 2000 mg per day. Also helps with upper respiratory, flu and infections. 6)Could be purpura or petechaie, small leakages of blood from damaged blood vessels or signs of livido reticularis. May wish to check with a rheumatologist. Could also be a nutrient deficiency. 7)Too much Cortisol in system. Cortisol is a hormone produced by adrenal glands. Overproduction can cause complicated disorders, is apparently rare. 8) Celiacs often have trouble absorbing Vitamin C and related nutrients like bioflavinoid nutrients (found in rose hipes, acerola) whose function is to strengthen capillary fratility. Do not take more than 1000 mg Vit C supplements daily with extra water in divided doses. 9) Could be petechiae or small red surface bruises from rupturing of tiny capillaries just under the skin. Comes from Vitamin C and bioflavinoid deficiency. Thank you again for all your help. Barb