Easy bruising isn’t as uncommon as you might think. It’s much more common as people grow older, as older adults have thinner skin and less padding to guard their blood vessels from trauma, resulting in more bruises.

However, some underlying conditions can lead to more bruising. Our AFC Urgent Care Mooresville team further explains below.

What Is a Bruise?

A bruise is a mark on the skin caused by blood trapped under the surface. It happens when an injury crushes small blood vessels so that they break open and leak under the skin, but the injury doesn’t break the skin itself.

Most bruises last for about two weeks, but deeper bruises can take months to go away. Bruises almost always start off a reddish color, then turn bluish-purple and greenish-yellow before returning to normal. If you get a bruise, we’ve listed some helpful ways to treat it below.

Ways to Treat a Bruise

• Cold compress. If bruising has caused pain and swelling, applying a cold compress is step one. Remember to put a barrier, such as a towel or cloth, between the cold object and skin. Place the compress on your child’s skin for up to 20 minutes at a time.
• Elevation. If an arm or leg is involved, elevate the limb and apply a cold compress for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, or until the swelling is reduced.
• Over-the-counter medication, such as acetaminophen.

When Should I Be Concerned About My Bruises?

Yes, bruising is a part of life, but there are certain situations in which you should be concerned. For instance, easy bruising can become a medical emergency if there is a huge bruise that appears to be continuously bleeding under the skin.

Additionally, injured organs can become a concern when it comes to bruising, so you should seek emergency attention if you sustain a hard blow to the back, chest or stomach, if a bruise is abnormally painful, or if it is unusually black or swollen. If none of these scenarios apply to you but you believe you may be bruising more frequently than other people, visit our AFC center if you experience the signs that we’ve mentioned below.

Reasons to Visit the Doctor for Bruising

• You suddenly begin bruising more easily than before.
• You have other symptoms, such as yellow skin, a fever, low energy or skin changes.
• You are taking medication and begin bruising more easily.
• You get many painful bruises that are very slow to heal.

We’re here for you now and always! Don’t hesitate to visit our AFC Urgent Care Mooresville team today.