15235 Bruises

Overview

A bruise happens when small blood vessels under the skin break and leak blood into the surrounding tissue. This causes the black-and-blue mark you see on the skin. Over time, the body reabsorbs the blood and the bruise fades.

Yes — most people get bruises from minor bumps and falls. They are one of the most common minor injuries.

Anyone can bruise. They are very common in children, older adults, and people taking medicines that affect blood clotting.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A tender, swollen area soon after an injury
• Skin that looks black, blue, purple, or yellow as the bruise heals
• Slight swelling around the bruised area

Symptoms in children

• Bruises on the knees, shins, or arms from everyday play
• Usually painful only when the bruise is pressed
• Some children bruise more easily, especially when they start walking or running

Symptoms in older adults

• Bruises may take longer to appear and longer to fade
• The skin is thinner and breaks more easily
• Bruises may appear on the hands and forearms after minor bumps

Causes

Main causes

• Injury — bumping, falling, or being struck breaks small blood vessels
• Aging — skin becomes thinner and blood vessels are weaker
• Blood-thinning medicines — these make bruising easier
• Medical conditions that affect blood clotting (like low platelets or haemophilia)

Risk factors

• Getting older
• Taking blood-thinning medicines or some natural supplements
• Playing contact sports or doing physical work
• Having a bleeding disorder or a family history of easy bruising

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• A bruise keeps expanding or is extremely painful
• You have bruising that develops for no clear reason
• Bruising happens with unusual bleeding from the gums or nose

Book a routine appointment if:

• You have bruises that keep coming back and you are unsure why
• A bruise does not improve after two to three weeks
• Your bruise is near the eye or involves the head — this should be checked promptly

Diagnosis

A doctor or nurse will ask how the bruise happened and look at the bruise. They will check its size, colour, and whether the skin is intact.

Tests that may be done

• Usually, no tests are needed
• If bruising is easy and unexplained, a blood test can check how your blood clots
• In some cases, an X-ray may be needed to rule out a broken bone

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor may ask questions about your medical history, medicines, and whether you've had unexplained bruising. They will usually reassure you and advise on self-care.

Treatment

Most bruises need no medical treatment. They fade on their own as the body clears the leaked blood. Self-care at home usually helps reduce pain and swelling.

Self-care at home

• Rest the bruised area and avoid activities that make it hurt
• Apply a cold pack (a cloth with ice or frozen vegetables) for 10–20 minutes at a time, several times a day for the first day or two
• Keep the bruised area raised (elevated) if possible to reduce swelling
• After the first 48 hours, a warm cloth can help dissolve the trapped blood more quickly

Medical treatments

For pain or discomfort, some over-the-counter pain relief medicines can help. Ask your pharmacist which one is safest for you. If there's concern about an underlying bleeding issue, your doctor may arrange blood tests or refer you to a specialist. Rarely, a very large, stubborn blood collection needs to be drained by a doctor.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not needed for typical bruises. In rare cases, a large blood collection (haematoma) may need to be drained by a healthcare professional.

Living with this condition

In most cases, bruises need no special care. You can continue normal activities as long as they don't cause pain. Keep an eye on the bruise and note if it changes in size or colour.

Lifestyle tips

• If you take medicine that increases bleeding, be extra careful to avoid bumps and falls
• Wear protective padding for sports or cycling
• At home, clear clutter and improve lighting to reduce falls

Diet and exercise

A healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables supports your skin and blood vessels. Regular, safe exercise keeps your circulation healthy and can help prevent falls, especially as you get older.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A bruise is usually not serious, but repeated or unexplained bruises can cause worry and anxiety. If you feel concerned about what's happening with your body, talking to a doctor can bring reassurance.

Prevention

Not completely, but you can lower your risk. Being careful during physical activity and making your home safer are the most effective steps.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine that prevents bruises.

Screening programmes

No routine screening is needed for bruises.

Complications

If left untreated

• Most bruises heal without treatment
• A large collection of blood (haematoma) may remain as a hard lump and sometimes needs medical attention
• If the skin is broken, an infection can develop

Long-term outlook

The outlook is excellent. Most bruises fade within two weeks and cause no lasting problems. If a medical cause is found, treating it often reduces bruising.

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