Everything You Need Know About Bruises!

Similar Types of Bleeding That Cause Skin Discoloration

Most bruises will heal independently within two to four weeks without special treatment. However, there are also several things you can do to help reduce the pain and swelling associated with a bruise, including:

• Apply ice to the affected area for 20 minutes several times daily.
• Elevating the affected area to reduce swelling.
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers can help, such as acetaminophen or
• ibuprofen, to reduce pain and also inflammation.
• A topical ointment or cream containing arnica or bromelain may help reduce bruising and inflammation.

In rare cases, a bruise may indicate a more serious underlying condition, such as a bleeding disorder or a fracture. Suppose you experience severe pain or swelling or your bruise does not improve after two weeks. In that case, you should consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.

Several types of bruises can occur depending on the severity and location of the injury. The following are the prime types of bruises:

• Subcutaneous bruise: This is the most common type of bruise. It occurs when blood leaks into the tissues beneath the skin, resulting in a visible discoloration. Subcutaneous bruises are usually tender and painful to the touch and may appear swollen.
• Intramuscular bruise: An intramuscular bruise occurs when blood leaks into the muscle tissue. This type of bruise is often caused by a direct blow or impact to the muscle and can be very painful. Intramuscular bruises may also cause stiffness or limited range of motion.
• Periosteal bruise: This type of bruise occurs when blood accumulates under the periosteum, the outer layer of bone tissue. Periosteal bruises are often caused by a direct blow to the bone and can be very painful. They may also cause swelling and tenderness in the affected area.
• Bone bruise: A bone bruise occurs when blood leaks into the bone tissue. This type of bruise can be caused by a direct blow to the bone or by repetitive stress, such as in athletes who engage in high-impact activities. Bone bruises can be painful and may take longer than other bruises.
• Hematoma: A hematoma is a larger blood collection that forms beneath the skin or within an organ or tissue. Hematomas can occur due to a serious injury or surgery. They may require medical attention to drain the blood and prevent complications.

Bruises can vary in severity and location, and different types may require additional treatments. Suppose you have any concerns about a bruise or other kind of injury. In that case, consulting with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment is important.

The prime symptom of a bruise is a visible discoloration of the skin, which may appear red, purple, blue, or black. The color of a bruise can change over time as the body reabsorbs the blood and the bruise heals. Here is a general timeline of how the color of a bruise may alter over time:

• Within minutes to hours after injury: The bruise may appear red or purple, reflecting the color of the blood leaking into the tissues.
• 1-2 days after the injury: The bruise may appear blue or dark purple as the blood spreads and breaks down.
• 5-7 days after the injury: The bruise may appear green or yellow as the body begins to reabsorb the blood and the breakdown products are removed.
• 7-14 days after the injury: The bruise may appear yellow or brown as it continues to heal, and the body eliminates the remaining waste products.

Other symptoms of a bruise may include:

1. Pain or tenderness in the affected area, especially when touched or pressed.
2. Swelling or stiffness in the affected area.
3. Limited range of motion or difficulty using the affected limb or joint.
4. In rare cases, a large or deep bruise may indicate a more serious underlying condition, such as a fracture or internal bleeding.

Suppose you have a bruise that is unusually large, painful, or does not improve after several days. In that case, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.

What Are the Causes of Blood Bruises on the Skin?

• Trauma: Bruises are often caused by a direct blow or impact to the body, such as a fall, sports injury, or accident. The severity of the bruise may depend on the force of the impact and the location of the injury.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs, can increase the risk of bruising or make bruises more severe.
• Medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as bleeding disorders or certain types of cancer, may increase the risk of bruising. Older adults may also be more prone to bruising due to changes in the skin and blood vessels that occur with aging.
• Nutritional deficiencies: A deficiency in certain nutrients, such as vitamin C, vitamin K, or iron deficiency bruising, can affect the body’s ability to the formation of blood clots and may increase the risk of bruising.
• Abuse: In some cases, bruises may signify physical abuse or domestic violence. It is very important to seek help if you or also someone you know is experiencing abuse.

Bruises are usually diagnosed based on their appearance and the history of injury or trauma. Your healthcare provider may ask questions about the injury’s circumstances, including how it occurred and whether there were any other symptoms.

Sometimes, your healthcare provider may recommend imaging tests, such as an X-ray, MRI, or ultrasound, to rule out a more serious injury, such as a fracture or internal bleeding. Blood tests may also be prescribed to check for any underlying medical conditions or nutritional deficiencies contributing to frequent or unexplained bruising.

Suppose you have a bruise that is unusually large, painful, or does not improve after several days. In that case, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment. In rare cases, a deep or extensive bruise may indicate a more serious underlying condition requiring prompt medical attention.

Most bruises will heal on their own without any specific treatment. Still, there are steps you can take to help reduce pain, swelling, and discoloration and speed up the healing process:

• Rest the affected area: If possible, avoid putting weight on the affected area or using it for a period of time to allow the bruise to heal.
• Apply ice: Applying ice to the affected area for 10-15 minutes at a time, several times a day, can also help reduce swelling and pain.
• Elevate the affected area: Keeping the affected area elevated above the heart level can help reduce swelling and improve blood flow to the site.
• Take pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
• Protect the bruised area: If the bruise is in an area that is easily bumped or injured, protect it with padding or bandages to prevent further injury.
• Wait it out: Most bruises will heal within 1-2 weeks. The discoloration will gradually fade as the bruise heals, and the pain and swelling should subside.

Other Bruises Injury Treatment Options:

Sometimes, your healthcare provider may recommend additional treatments, such as physical or compression therapy, to help speed up the healing process and improve mobility in the affected area. Rarely, a large or deep bruise may require drainage or surgical intervention.

It is very important to note that if you are experiencing frequent or unexplained bruising may indicate an underlying medical condition or nutritional deficiency. If so, your healthcare provider may recommend additional testing or treatment to address the underlying issue.

How to Get Rid of a Bruise Quick?

In addition to these self-care measures, it is important to stay fully hydrated and eat a healthy, balanced diet to support the body’s natural healing process. Suppose you have a history of frequent or unexplained bruising. In that case, talking to your healthcare provider about any underlying medical conditions or nutritional deficiencies contributing to the issue may also be helpful.

Related Health Condition

• Substance abuse: Substance abuse refers to using drugs or alcohol in a way that negatively impacts a person’s physical or mental health, social relationships, and daily functioning. Substance abuse can lead to various health issues, including liver damage, heart disease, mental health disorders, and an increased risk of injury or accidents.
• Low platelet level: Platelets are small cells in the blood that help with blood clotting. A low platelet level, or thrombocytopenia, can result from various underlying medical conditions or medications and lead to excessive bleeding or bruising.
• Alcohol abuse: Alcohol abuse refers to a pattern of drinking that negatively impacts a person’s health, relationships, and daily functioning. Alcohol abuse can lead to various health issues, including liver damage, heart disease, mental health disorders, and an increased risk of injury or accidents.
• Malnutrition: Malnutrition is when the body does not receive adequate nutrients to support healthy growth and functioning. Malnutrition can result from various factors, including poor diet, underlying medical conditions, and digestive disorders. Malnutrition can lead to multiple health issues, including a weakened immune system, muscle wasting, and an increased risk of infections and illnesses. In bruising, malnutrition can lead to decreased production of platelets and other blood cells, increasing the risk of excessive bleeding or bruising.

When to See a Doctor About a Bruise?

• Virtual consultations with healthcare providers: Ongo Care allows patients to connect with their healthcare providers remotely, either through video consultations or messaging, to discuss symptoms, side effects, and treatment options.
• Practical assistance: The platform offers resources and guidance on a range of practical issues

Frequently Asked Questions