Bruises

WHAT IS BRUISING?

A bruise is a common skin injury that results in skin discoloration. Blood from damaged blood cells deep beneath the skin collects near the skin’s surface, resulting in what may appear as a black, blue, brown, and purple mark.

Bruising is a skin tissue injury that can quickly occur by simply bumping into something, from a fall, an accident, or a sports injury, including a medical procedure.

TYPES OF BRUISES

There are multiple reasons why bruising may occur

1. Black eye: A blow to your head can cause a black eye which can cause swelling, a bruise, and a discolored ring around the eye. We recommend getting this checked out by a healthcare professional since there might be hyphema(bleeding in the eye) or a facial fracture.
2. Purpura: This bruising is caused by bleeding that occurs under the skin, which is caused by force in that area(ex: bumping into something)
3. Petechiae: These are spots that are less than 2mm of reddish dots on your skin that do not turn white after applying light pressure.
4. Senile purpura: Your skin becomes thinner, dryer, and more prone to tearing as you age, making your skin more sensitive to bruises.
5. Hematoma: Trauma, A significant fall or a car accident can cause severe bruising and skin and tissue damage. This type can cause pain & swelling because of a collection of blood outside the blood vessels.

HOW CAN YOU MANAGE BRUISES?

Managing bruises involves a combination of self-care techniques to promote healing and reduce discomfort. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Apply cold compress: Immediately after the injury, apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth to the affected area. This can help reduce swelling and minimize discoloration.
2. Elevate the area: If possible, elevate the bruised area above the heart level to reduce blood flow and swelling.
3. Apply a warm compress: After the initial 48 hours, you can switch to applying a warm compress to the bruise. This can help improve blood circulation and facilitate healing.
4. Protect the bruised area: Avoid activities that may worsen the bruise or cause additional injury. If necessary, use padding or protective gear to prevent further damage.
5. Give it time: Bruises typically heal on their own within two to four weeks. During this time, it’s essential to allow your body to heal naturally. Avoid picking at or applying excessive pressure to the bruise, as it may prolong the healing process.

If you have concerns about a severe bruise, experience unusual symptoms, or if the bruise does not improve over time, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance.