When someone hears the word hemangiomen, it can sound a bit scary, especially for parents noticing red marks or lumps on their baby’s skin. But the truth is most hemangiomen are harmless, common, and treatable.

In this blog, we’ll explain what hemangiomen are, what causes them, how they are treated, and how you can make daily life more comfortable if you or your child has one. Whether you’re a concerned parent in Amsterdam or someone in Rotterdam seeking clarity, this guide is written to give peace of mind and practical advice.

What Are Hemangiomen?

Hemangiomen (singular: hemangioom) are benign (non-cancerous) growths of blood vessels. They are often visible on the skin as red or purple raised spots. Some are small and flat, others grow quickly before slowly shrinking over time.

There are two main types:

1. Infantile Hemangiomas are common in babies, usually appearing a few weeks after birth.
2. Congenital Hemangiomas present at birth and either shrink or stay the same size.

Causes of Hemangiomen

Doctors still don’t know exactly why hemangiomen develop, but several factors may play a role:

• Premature birth Babies born early are more likely to develop hemangiomen.
• Low birth weight Smaller babies often have a higher risk.
• Female babies are more affected than boys.
• Twins or multiple births Increased chance when more than one baby is carried.

There’s no known link to what a mother eats or does during pregnancy, and hemangiomen are not caused by infections or inherited from parents.

Are Hemangiomen Dangerous?

In most cases, no. Hemangiomen usually grow for several months and then shrink naturally. By age 5 to 10, most of them fade away completely without treatment.

However, sometimes they need medical attention:

• If they bleed, ulcerate, or become painful
• If they interfere with vision, breathing, hearing, or other functions
• If they are growing too fast or are deep inside the body

Always consult a doctor if you notice anything unusual.

Diagnosing Hemangiomen

A dermatologist or pediatrician can usually diagnose a hemangioom just by looking at it. In some cases, an ultrasound or MRI is needed to understand its depth or check internal growth.

Important: No biopsy or invasive procedure is usually needed unless there’s doubt about the diagnosis.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the size, location, and potential complications. Not all hemangiomen need to be treated.

1. Wait-and-See Approach (Watchful Waiting)

Most cases need no treatment. Doctors simply monitor the hemangioom as it grows and fades.

2. Beta-Blocker Medicine (Propranolol)

This is the most common treatment if needed. It helps shrink the blood vessels safely over time.

3. Laser Therapy

Used to reduce redness or to treat open wounds on the hemangioom.

4. Surgery

Rare, but considered if the hemangioom affects organ function or causes major disfigurement.

Caring for a Child with Hemangiomen

Caring for a baby or child with a visible hemangioom can be emotionally challenging. Here are a few tips:

• Gentle skincare: Avoid harsh soaps and don’t scratch the area
• Moisturize regularly: Keep the skin soft and protected.
• Use sun protection: Sun can make redness worse. Use sunscreen or protective clothing.
• Monitor changes: Track size, color, and behavior of the hemangioom.
• Emotional support: Educate friends, family, and teachers to avoid unnecessary attention or bullying.

When to See a Specialist

See a doctor or skin specialist in the Netherlands if:

• The hemangiomen is close to the eyes, lips, nose, or genital area.
• It bleeds, crusts, or becomes painful.
• It grows too fast or turns bluish or very dark.
• Your child has multiple hemangiomen.

You can ask your huisarts (general practitioner) in the Netherlands to refer you to a dermatologist or kinderarts.

Living Comfortably with Hemangiomen

Whether you’re a parent, teenager, or adult living with hemangiomen, remember this:

• It’s common and treatable.
• You are not alone.
• Most hemangiomen fade over time.

In some cases, they may leave behind a faint mark or loose skin, but this can often be managed with cosmetic care or minor procedures if needed.

Confidence, support, and awareness make a big difference. Don’t let a visible hemangiomen affect self-esteem or comfort; it’s just a small part of your body, not your identity.

Hemangiomen in the Netherlands: What You Should Know

In the Netherlands, healthcare professionals are well-equipped to handle hemangiomen cases. If your baby or child is diagnosed:

• You can expect regular follow-ups with dermatologists or pediatricians.
• Propranolol is covered by insurance when medically necessary.
• You may receive support from youth health services (consultatiebureau).

Dutch hospitals like The Treatment Bar , UMC Utrecht, Erasmus MC, and Radboudumc are known for their pediatric dermatology units.

FAQs About Hemangiomen

1. Are hemangiomen dangerous?
Most are not. They are usually harmless and fade over time.

2. What age do hemangiomen appear?
Typically within the first few weeks after birth.

3. Do hemangiomen hurt?
Usually not, but they can be painful if they ulcerate or get irritated.

4. Can adults get hemangiomen?
Yes, but it’s much rarer. These are often different from infantile hemangiomas.

5. How long do they last?
Most shrink significantly by age 5–10. Some completely disappear.

6. Can hemangiomen come back after disappearing?
No, they don’t usually return once gone.

7. Is treatment necessary?
Only if they cause problems. Many are left untreated.

8. Are there side effects of treatment?
Propranolol is generally safe but should be given under medical supervision.

9. Can they leave scars?
Sometimes, especially if they were large or ulcerated, but most fade nicely.

10. Are they contagious or inherited?
No, hemangiomen are neither contagious nor passed from parent to child.

Living with hemangiomen doesn’t have to be difficult. Whether you’re dealing with one yourself or helping your child manage it, knowledge is your best ally. In most cases, a hemangioom is just a temporary visitor that fades with time. With proper care, monitoring, and medical advice, you can ensure comfort, safety, and peace of mind. If you’re in the Netherlands and have concerns, speak with your huisarts. Support is available, and you’re not alone in this.