Stork Bite: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Vrukshal Shamkuwar , Pediatrician

---

Stork bites, also known as salmon patches or nevus simplex, are common birthmarks that appear as flat, pink or red patches on a newborn's skin, most often on the back of the neck, eyelids, or forehead. These marks are usually harmless and fade over time, but monitoring helps rule out other skin concerns.

What are the Stork Bites Symptoms and Warning Signs?

Stork bites are generally mild and do not cause discomfort. However, knowing their typical presentation helps differentiate them from other skin conditions in babies.

Common Symptoms

• Flat, pink or red patches on the neck, forehead, or eyelids
• Marks become more visible during crying or temperature changes
• No pain or itching

Severe Symptoms (Rare & suggest medical attention if observed)

• Marks that grow in size or darken over time
• Persistent lesions beyond early childhood
• Skin changes like thickening or bleeding

---

What are the Common Causes and Risk Factors of Stork Bites?

Stork bites are harmless vascular birthmarks caused by dilated capillaries near the skin's surface. Understanding their origins and the factors that may affect their appearance helps parents recognize this common condition.

Causes

• Dilated capillaries under the skin are present at birth
• Temporary blood vessel immaturity in newborns

Risk Factors

• Newborns and infants (most common in babies)
• Family history of similar birthmarks
• Premature birth may increase visibility

---

How Stork Bites Are Diagnosed?

Stork bites are primarily diagnosed through a thorough physical examination by a pediatrician or dermatologist. Since these birthmarks are visible on the skin surface, no invasive tests are usually required.

Diagnostic Approach

• Careful clinical inspection of the affected skin areas
• Detailed medical history to rule out other vascular anomalies
• In rare cases, imaging tests like Doppler ultrasound may be used if deeper vascular issues are suspected

---

What Are the Treatment Options for Stork Bites?

Most stork bites do not require treatment as they often fade naturally by early childhood. However, when treatment is desired or necessary, several options are available.

Treatment Options

• Observation and reassurance: Most cases improve without intervention
• Laser therapy: For persistent or cosmetically concerning marks, pulsed dye laser treatment effectively reduces redness
• Topical treatments: Rarely used but sometimes recommended in conjunction with laser therapy

---

When to See a Doctor?

While stork bites are usually harmless and fade on their own, medical advice should be sought if you notice any unusual changes or persistent concerns.

Seek medical attention if

• The birthmark does not fade by 2 to 3 years of age
• The patch grows larger, darkens, or becomes raised
• There is bleeding, pain, or signs of infection
• The mark affects vision or causes discomfort, especially around the eyelids

High-risk groups needing prompt consultation

• Infants with large or multiple birthmarks
• Children showing developmental issues related to the affected skin area
• Families with a history of vascular malformations or skin disorders

Early evaluation by a pediatric dermatologist or specialist at Medicover can help ensure proper care and peace of mind.

---

What is the Recovery Process After Stork Bites Treatment?

Most stork bites fade naturally without treatment, but when laser therapy or other interventions are used, recovery is straightforward.

• Follow-up schedule: Patients typically return for follow-ups every 4 to 6 weeks during treatment to monitor fading and skin response.
• Post-treatment care: Keep the treated skin clean and protected from sun exposure. Use gentle skincare products as recommended by your dermatologist.
• Lifestyle recommendations: No special diet is required, but maintaining overall skin health through hydration and avoiding irritants helps.
• Long-term outlook: The majority of stork bites either disappear or become barely noticeable by early childhood, with excellent cosmetic outcomes.

---

What Precautions Can Help Prevent Stork Bites?

While stork bites are congenital and cannot be fully prevented, certain measures help in monitoring and managing their progression:

Prevention

• Routine newborn skin examinations by pediatricians
• Educating parents on identifying vascular birthmarks early
• Regular dermatological check-ups for persistent or atypical marks

Complications (Rare)

• Stork bites generally do not cause complications
• Untreated, persistent marks may cause cosmetic concerns or psychological impact in some children
• Rarely, vascular anomalies may require further medical attention

---

Our Experience Treating Stork Bites

At Medicover, we understand the concerns parents have about birthmarks like stork bites. Our compassionate pediatric dermatology team combines advanced diagnostic tools and prepared treatments to provide gentle, effective care.

We focus on reassuring families and supporting children's healthy skin development, ensuring each patient receives individual attention every step of the way.

---