A bruise is one of the most popular conditions that result in skin discoloration due to the breakage of tiny blood vessels which leak under the skin after traumatic injuries. The blood from damaged blood vessels under the skin builds up near the surface and becomes what we recognize as a black and blue mark. This mark comes from discoloration of the skin by red blood cells and their contents.
Black and blue marks are usually associated with bruises. A bruise appears on the skin as a result of trauma. Examples of trauma are a cut or a direct hit on the surface of the body. These injuries make the tiny blood vessels known as the capillaries to burst. The blood is trapped under the surface of the skin, which results into what is known as a bruise.
A bruise has been found to affect individuals irrespective of their age. The occurrence of some bruises is accompanied by little pain and it can be very difficult to notice them.
What are the Causes of a Bruise?
People usually have bruises when they hit something or something hits them.
Bruises may occur in many individuals who engage in strenuous exercise for example athletes and weightlifters. These bruises can be caused by tiny tears in the blood vessels underneath the skin.
Inexplicable bruises that occur easily or without any reason may indicate a bleeding disorder, especially if bruises are accompanied by frequent nosebleeds or bleeding gums.
Usually, what is considered to be unexplained bruises on the skin or the thigh usually occur as a result of bumps into a bedpost some other object and finding it difficult to remember the injury.
Older people often have bruises because their skin has become thinner with age. The tissues supporting the underlying blood vessels have become fragile.
Individuals who take drugs to thin their blood are at increased risk of developing a bruise.
Bruises which appear in the back of the hands and arms which is referred to as actinic purpura or solar purpura occur because the skin there is often sun-damaged and thin.
Some medical disorders, including leukemia, hemophilia, liver disease, Cushing's disease, Marfan’s syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, connective tissue diseases, iron-deficiency anemia, or aplastic anemia, can cause bruising and bleeding.
It is also easy for people taking certain types of medication to have bruises. These drugs include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin); blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin), clopidogrel (Plavix), and heparin; steroids (prednisone); and some medications used to treat cancer.
What are the Symptoms of a Bruise?
In the beginning, fresh bruises can be reddish. It will turn into a blue or dark purple color in a few hours, then yellow or green after several days of healing.
A bruise is usually painful and sometimes painful in the first few days, but the pain usually disappears as the color fades.
As they heal, itching can be experienced.
Because there is not open cut during bruising, there is a little risk of infection.
Repeated bruises in some area can leave permanent yellowish brown spots due to the deposition of iron in the skin.
Bruising usually lasts from one to two weeks, although some may take a little longer time to heal.
Bruise Treatment
Treatment for a Bruise requires restoring the circulation and blood flow to the affected structures in your bruised area. Pain is caused when swelling, inflammation and decreased circulation generate a blockage, which causes blood flow to be interrupted or slowed. Treatment for this issue requires breaking up the accumulated fluids in your bruised area to allow for improved healing and quicker recovery.
Products recommended for symptoms of swelling, redness, pain, and inflammation, and if coolness makes your pain feel better:
Ice Substitute Poultice
Bruise Relief Liniment
Muscle Therapy Massage Oil
