Your bruise is likely large because the blow that caused it was substantial.
Understanding Bruises
When you experience an injury that doesn't break the skin, the blood vessels beneath the surface can rupture. Because the skin remains intact, the blood has nowhere to escape, which leads to pooling and clotting. This blood pooling is what causes the discoloration we recognize as a bruise.
Factors Affecting Bruise Size
According to the reference provided, the size of a bruise is directly related to the force of the impact:
- Harder Blows: These will cause more damage to the blood vessels, resulting in a larger amount of blood leaking into the tissue.
- Smaller Blows: Less damage to the blood vessels and a smaller amount of blood leaked resulting in a smaller bruise.
Why Bruises Change Color
The color change in a bruise is due to the breakdown of the pooled blood. Initially, the bruise may appear reddish or purple. Over time, as the blood is reabsorbed by the body, the bruise changes through various shades, including blue, green, and yellow, before finally fading away.
Key Takeaway
| Factor | Impact on Bruise Size |
|---|---|
| Force of Impact | Directly Proportional |
| Skin Breaking | Not Present in Bruise Formation |
| Blood Pooling | Under the skin |
In conclusion, a bigger bruise generally indicates a more forceful impact that damaged a larger number of blood vessels.
