Bruises
Bruises form when blood cells seep from injured veins or capillaries into surrounding skin tissue. Basically, bruises are bleeding that occurs beneath the skin. Newer bruises usually appear black and blue. As they heal, they may look green and yellow.
Causes
Most bruises are caused by a sufficiently hard blow to break blood vessels in the skin and/or deeper tissues (muscles and bone). Some medications, such as anticoagulants and aspirin, can cause people to bruise more easily.
Self-Care Steps for Bruises
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Apply ice and firm pressure to the bruised area as quickly as possible. This helps veins constrict, reducing the flow of blood into the skin tissue and minimizing the bruise.
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Elevate and rest the bruised area.
| Decision Guide for Bruises |
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Symptoms/Signs
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Action
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Sudden increased appearance or multiple bruises, or on anticoagulants or aspirin
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 Call provider's office
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New onset of bruising easily with, or without, minor injuries
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 See provider
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Bruising with severe pain and swelling
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See provider
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Publication Source:
Well Advised, Second Edition, Text copyright © 2003 Park Nicollet Institute
Online Editor:
Sinovic, Dianna
Online Medical Reviewer:
Cineas, Sybil MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
Godsey, Cynthia M.S., M.S.N., APRN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Lambert, J.G. M.D.
Date Last Reviewed:
2/10/2006
Date Last Modified:
2/24/2006