In this Article

• What is a bruise?
• Why do bruises occur more frequently in some people than in others?
• What does a bruise look like, and why does it change color?
• What if the bruise doesn't get better or the area stays swollen?
• What are some less common causes of bruising, and what do they indicate?
• What is the treatment for bruising?
• Bumps & Bruises At A Glance
• Bruises Glossary
• Bruises Index

What is the treatment for bruising?

There are a couple of things that you can do to prevent or minimize bruising after an injury. First, try a cold compress. Put ice in a plastic bag, wrap the bag in a towel (applying the ice directly to the skin can cause frostbite), and place it on the injured area. Commercial ice packs are also available, but a bag of frozen peas makes an excellent substitute. It molds to the shape of the injured area and can then be re-frozen and used again (but don't eat them!). The cold reduces the blood flow to the area and therefore limits bleeding into the skin and reduces the size of the bruise. The cold also decreases the inflammation in the area of the injury and limits swelling in this way as well. If possible, elevate the area above the level of the heart. The lower an extremity is below the heart, the more blood will flow to the area and increase the bleeding and swelling.

Avoid taking the medications listed above that can contribute to bruising. If you have any questions about whether or not your medication can contribute to bruising, ask your health-care practitioner or pharmacist. Do not stop any prescription medications without first contacting your health-care practitioner.

Finally, pressure applied to the area (by hand, not with tourniquets) can reduce bleeding.

People who take medicines that reduce clotting ("blood thinners") or have clotting abnormalities should seek the advice of a physician or other health-care provider immediately, as should the elderly or those who have experienced significantly severe trauma.

Bumps & Bruises At A Glance

• A bruise is medically referred to as a contusion.
• Bruises occur when tiny blood vessels are damaged or broken.
• The injury required to produce a bruise varies with age and certain medications.
• Individual bruises change in appearance over time.
• Spontaneous bruising can indicate a serious bleeding tendency.

Reference: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, McGraw-Hill, edited by Eugene Braunwald, et al., 2001.

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