A bruise is a contusion (a tissue injury that doesn’t break the skin) that is formed as a result of ruptured blood vessels located near the skin’s surface. Blunt trauma to the skin is the primary cause of this injury. Minor bruising typically occurs from accidental bumps and falls, and often appears as blue or purplish marks on the skin. The initial color is due to spilling of blood into the skin. Minor pain and swelling usually accompany these symptoms. These type of bruises will usually heal on their own within a few weeks and they will fade or change colors during the healing process. The golden brown color that appears during the healing process is from hemosiderin, which is created by iron in the skin after the breakdown of red blood cells. Moderate to severe bruising can signify a much more serious problem. This type of bruising results from severe impacts such as car accidents, or major blows to the body. This can result in swollen hematomas, which can potentially cut off blood supply to surrounding tissue. In cases of severe bruising immediate medical attention is strongly urged.
Common features of bruises include:
  • Skin Discoloration
  • Swelling Pain
Bruising occurs when blood vessels under the skin break. Blunt force trauma to the skin is the primary cause of ruptured or torn blood vessels. This can happen from a variety of situations, including falls, accidents or surgery.
Usually, no special care is needed, but you can help to reduce the swelling by applying a cold compress to the affected area for 20 minutes several times a day for the first 48 hours. If you use an icepack, make sure to wrap it with a towel. If the bruise involves a larger area or is situated on your leg or foot, keep it elevated as much as possible on the first day to improve circulation and reduce swelling. After the first 2 days, switch to warm compresses and apply for 15 minutes twice daily to encourage blood flow to the affected area and promote faster healing. If pain and swelling to the area intensifies after the first 24 to 48 hours, see a doctor to determine if your injury is more severe than originally thought.
Most instances of bruising are a result of accidental collisions with an object, and therefore are not always preventable. However, if you engage in contact or extreme sport activities, you can reduce the chances of bruising by wearing appropriate protective gear, such as pads and helmets. Avoid prolonged treatment of strong corticosteroid creams especially on thin skin. The use of Aspirin increases the chances of bruising.
OTC If necessary, take acetaminophen for pain, but aspirin is not recommended due to its blood thinning effect. Prescription Medicated creams containing mucopolysaccharide polysulfuric acid may help speed up the healing process of a bruise.i tempus ac.
  • Acetaminophen
  • Cold Compresses
  • Medicated creams containing Mucopolysaccharide Polysulfuric Acid