Bruises

What Is a Bruise and Why Do We Get Them?

A bruise forms when blood vessels under the skin break and the trapped blood shows through as a black, purple or blue mark that changes color as it heals, according to Mayo Clinic's bruise first-aid guide. Most of us collect a few from bumping into furniture, taking a tumble, or playing sports, and the tender spot is usually the first sign.

Why Do Some People Bruise More Easily?

Age and certain medicines are two of the biggest reasons. As Mayo Clinic's easy-bruising guide explains, as people get older the skin becomes thinner and loses some of the protective fatty layer that helps cushion blood vessels from injury. The same guide notes that corticosteroid medicines thin the skin, which makes it easier to bruise, and that blood thinners may lead to easy bruising by lowering the blood's ability to clot.

How Can I Help Avoid Bruises Around the House?

Most bruises come from everyday bumps and falls, so a safer walking path goes a long way. A few simple habits can help:

• Keep your home well lit. Use a small flashlight or your phone's light when walking outside in the dark.
• Clear the clutter. Items on the floor are easy to trip over.
• Arrange furniture so walkways are open. A clear path makes it simpler to move around your home.

How Do I Treat a Bruise at Home?

Rest the area, apply cold early on, and keep it raised if you can. Mayo Clinic's first-aid guidance suggests elevating the bruised area above heart level if possible, applying an ice pack wrapped in a thin towel for 20 minutes at a time, repeating several times for a day or two, and using an elastic bandage (not too tight) if the area is swelling.

According to Cleveland Clinic, ice packs are best for the first 24 to 48 hours after an injury, and after two days a heating pad or warm compress can be applied. Cleveland Clinic also notes that most bruises fade within two weeks without treatment, while more severe bruising and hematomas may last a month or longer.

Comfort for the Sore Spot

If a bump leaves the area feeling sore and achy, a topical pain relief cream can offer comfort for minor muscle and joint aches in the surrounding area. Emu Therapy's Super Blue Stuff OTC and fragrance- and color-free Super White Stuff OTC are over-the-counter creams for muscle and joint pain, and Foot & Leg Comfort from BLUESPRING is made for sore, tired feet and legs. Follow the label directions and do not apply any of them to broken skin.

When Should I See a Healthcare Provider About a Bruise?

See a provider if a bruise lasts more than two weeks, if you get frequent or large bruises, or if bruises appear without a clear reason, per Cleveland Clinic. Mayo Clinic adds that you should get checked if you bruise easily and also bleed easily, if bruising suddenly begins or worsens (particularly after starting a new medicine), or if you still have pain three days after a minor injury.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bruises

What causes a bruise?

A bruise forms when blood vessels under the skin break. The trapped blood creates a black, purple or blue mark that changes color as it heals.

How long does a bruise last?

Most bruises fade within two weeks without treatment. More severe bruising and hematomas may last a month or longer.

Should I use ice or heat on a bruise?

Use ice packs for the first 24 to 48 hours after the injury. After two days, a heating pad or warm compress can be applied.

Why do I bruise more easily as I get older?

As people get older, the skin becomes thinner and loses some of the protective fatty layer that helps cushion blood vessels from injury. Some medicines, including corticosteroids and blood thinners, can also make bruising easier.

When should I see a healthcare provider about a bruise?

See a provider if a bruise lasts more than two weeks, if you get frequent or large bruises, or if you have unexplained bruising. Also get checked if you bruise easily and bleed easily, or if bruising suddenly begins or worsens.

Sources

Created using Claude AI.

Edited by Stephen Eastmond.

Mayo Clinic (Bruise First Aid) — https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-bruise/basics/art-20056663

Mayo Clinic (Easy Bruising) — https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/easy-bruising/art-20045762

Cleveland Clinic (Bruises) — https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15235-bruises