Occasional black and blue marks from bruises are indeed a normal occurrence. Bruises, while sometimes uncomfortable, usually heal independently unless an underlying medical condition is the cause.
Understanding Bruises
A bruise (also known as a contusion) appears when small blood vessels under the skin break, often due to an injury. The blood leaks into the surrounding tissues, causing discoloration.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most bruises are harmless, it's essential to know when to consult a healthcare provider. According to the reference, you should see your healthcare provider if:
- A bruise doesn't improve within three weeks.
- A bruise doesn't resolve within three weeks.
Factors Affecting Bruising
Several factors can influence how easily a person bruises, including:
- Age: Older adults tend to bruise more easily due to thinner skin and more fragile blood vessels.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as blood thinners, can increase the risk of bruising.
- Medical conditions: Some medical conditions, like bleeding disorders, can cause excessive bruising.
Bruise Color Progression
The color of a bruise changes over time as the body breaks down the blood. The progression typically follows this pattern:
| Time | Color |
|---|---|
| Initially | Reddish |
| 1-2 days | Bluish-black |
| Several days | Greenish |
| After a week | Yellowish |
| Around 2 weeks | Fades |
What to do about bruises?
Here are a few things you can do at home to help a bruise heal:
- Rest: Rest the bruised area.
- Ice: Apply ice to the bruise for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
- Compression: Wrap the bruised area with an elastic bandage.
- Elevation: Elevate the bruised area above your heart.
