Even if we’re not doing anything noteworthy, we can always bump into things or trip and fall when we least expect it. This can result in painful bruises, but they often go away in at least a couple of weeks.

Sometimes, though, bruises shows up even when you don’t remember experiencing enough pain to warrant a mark. Read on to learn more from our AFC Urgent Care Powdersville team.

What Is a Bruise?

A bruise occurs when blood vessels underneath the skin pop as a result of force or trauma. When they pop, blood pools underneath the skin and then causes discoloration, usually brown, blue, yellow, black, green or red in color.

Bruises are highly treatable and hardly ever require medical attention to get better. If you or your child experiences a bruise, we’ve listed how to properly care for it below.

How to Treat Bruises

• Cold compress. If bruising has caused pain and swelling, 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 yours or 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.

Do I Bruise Too Easily?

This is a difficult question to answer, but if your bruises aren’t accompanied by any of the symptoms described in the section below, you shouldn’t be concerned.

It’s possible that the medication you’re taking is causing your regular bruises. Platelet function can be negatively affect by certain drugs, including aspirin, naproxen and ibuprofen. Platelets are important for effective clotting and preventing bruising and bleeding.

Accompanying Bruising Symptoms That Are Cause for Concern

• Bruises that seem out of proportion to the injury
• Bruising that continues to grow over hours and days
• Nosebleeds that persist for 15+ minutes despite consistent pressure held on the nose
• Bleeding gums while brushing teeth
• Blood in urine or bowel movements
• Excessive bruising accompanied by paleness, fatigue, fever, irritability or pain in the bones

Whether it’s bruising you’re concerned about or some other non-emergency condition, we’re here for you! Don’t hesitate to stop by our AFC Urgent Care Powdersville center today.