Healthy Mocktail Recipes So Good You Won't Even Miss the Alcohol, The 5 Exercises Most Likely to Cause Injury, When You Should See a Doctor About Bruising Easily, 7 Fingernail Abnormalities That May Signal a Health Issue, These Spirulina Benefits Will Make a Splash, What It Means If You Have Peeling Nails (Plus, How to Fix Them), Dry Lips Causes and Treatments, According to a Doctor. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is a group of inherited conditions that affect the connective tissues. They can vary in color, and skin color may affect the appearance of a bruise. Oftentimes, you can reduce your risk for future bruising by making sure you're getting the right. Bruises naturally change color over time from red, through purple, to yellow or, Bruises happen when an injury causes damage to blood vessels below the skin. Other medications that may cause sudden bruising include: Any recent drug before the onset of sudden bruising should be reported to your doctor. Never stop taking any medications on your own. How Viagra became a new 'tool' for young men, Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0019483216300074, https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/bernard-soulier-syndrome, https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/side-effects/bleeding-bruising, https://www.leukaemiacare.org.uk/support-and-information/latest-from-leukaemia-care/blog/spotting-the-difference-bruising-in-leukaemia-vs-ordinary-bruising/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI6dC6woaY6gIV0u7tCh1REQm5EAAYASAAEgLGyPD_BwE, https://ashpublications.org/blood/article/130/21/2271/36666/Thrombocytopenia-in-pregnancy, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5394486/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK536983/, https://online.nursing.georgetown.edu/the-forensic-science-behind-bruise-healing-infographic/, https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/factor-v-deficiency, https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/6481/gardner-diamond-syndrome, https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/immune-thrombocytopenia, https://bestpractice.bmj.com/topics/en-gb/632, https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/prednisolone/, https://www.gosh.nhs.uk/conditions-and-treatments/conditions-we-treat/septicaemia, https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/are-you-taking-too-much-anti-inflammatory-medication-2018040213540, https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/anticoagulants/side-effects/, https://liverfoundation.org/for-patients/about-the-liver/the-progression-of-liver-disease/, https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/septicemia, https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/vwd/facts.html, https://aakp.org/whats-causing-me-to-bruise-so-easily-and-what-i-do-to-prevent-it/, New clues to slow aging? This will allow him/her to examine you, ask specific questions. Infection that causes the buildup of toxin in the blood or tissues ( sepsis ). If youve recently overdone it at the gym, you may develop bruises around the affected muscles. They may prescribe iron tablets or other medication as well as help you modify your diet to meet your nutritional needs. An approach to investigation of easy bruising. (2016). Also, some medications (such as warfarin) may interact with other foods or medications and cause bruising without recent changes in the dose. Bruises happen when an injury causes blood to leak into the skin. Vitamins and minerals: What you should know about essential nutrients. If you havent already received a diabetes diagnosis, look for other symptoms such as: See a doctor or other healthcare provider if youre experiencing one or more of these symptoms alongside bruising. Bruising occurs when the repairs don't come quickly enough, resulting in a collection of blood outside of the vessels," explains Dr. Elliott. AIcohoI-induced bone marrow suppression leads to easy bruising all of a sudden when the platelets drop below a certain number. Your blood cells (platelets) are your bodys plumbers to repair the leak in your blood vessels. If you're on a blood thinner such as Plavix or Coumadin, you might notice you're bruising more easily than before starting the medication. Unexplained bruising is one of them. Easy bruising can cause large bruises in multiple areas of the body, often at the same time. Ecchymosis is the medical term for bruises. Thornburg CD, et al. (2018). An increase in bruising can be a side effect of some medications, especially blood thinners, NSAIDS, and steroids. Experts say prevention programs are needed. Symptoms of a bruise include: Pain or tenderness (sore feeling) when you To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Elevation (raise your arms or legs above your heart). Ecchymosis (pronounced eh-chuh-mow-sis) is the medical term for a bruise. 1. All rights reserved. The formation of blood clots relies on good nutrition, a healthy liver, and healthy bone marrow. Some people (it's usually women) just have more fragile blood vessels, and that makes them more likely to bruise, especially on their upper arms, thighs, or butt. Here are 10 easy treatments to lessen the pain and reduce the visibility. However, not all bruising has a simple explanation. Von Willebrand disease is a genetic disorder that affects your bloods ability to clot. Some medical conditions that can cause easy bruising include: While the occasional bruise isnt a cause for concern, easy bruising could be. These are rare, but they can be life-threatening if you don't treat them. Even though theres blood pooling underneath your skin, you wont have any external bleeding unless your skin breaks open. Having a condition or receiving treatment that affects your blood platelet count (such as. Bruises on the torso, back, or face could especially be a concern. Tiny reddish spots on the skin (purpura). However, It is not a serious disease, and the incidence of complications is rare. It's totally normal to knock into something without remembering the impact again, trauma is the most common cause of a bruise but think about how often it's happening to you or how severe the bruises look. American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/skin-care-and-aging. However, if a person experiences other symptoms alongside random bruising, further investigation may be necessary. Adults: will require treatment if platelets are below 40,000/CC. Benabio J. DOI: 10.1136/bcr.08.2008.0750. What's causing me to bruise so easily and what I do to prevent it? Wrap the ice pack in a towel and apply ice for no more than 15 minutes at a time. Why my wife has stabbing pain when pooping during a period? However, if you bruise easily, you have unexplained bruising, or the bruising is accompanied by bleeding elsewhere, it could be a sign of a condition that needs medical attention. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. If we combine this information with your protected These bruises last long and even grow in size. The skin is also thin, fragile, and easily damaged. Keeping an eye out for other unusual symptoms may help you determine if theres an underlying cause. Easy bruising can cause large bruises in multiple areas of the body, often at the same time. Applying ice packs for the first 24 to 48 hours after injury. 26th ed. Sporadic bruising usually isnt cause for worry. Anecdotal reports are surfacing that some people are developing tinnitus days after receiving one of the COVID vaccines. See additional information. Iron deficiency anemia. Noble, J. M., & Patterson, M. C. (2020). However, it should not appear in isolation and may appear alongside fatigue, appetite loss, abdominal pain, and nausea. (2017). Intense exercise can leave you with more than just sore muscles. Anticoagulant activity of select dietary supplements. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. As the area heals, the bruise may turn a lighter shade of brown, green or yellow. Merck Manual Professional Version. Get your vision tested to make sure you can see clearly enough to avoid any obstacles that could injure you. Bruises and blood spots under the skin. Here are 10 easy treatments to lessen the pain and reduce the visibility. 2 doctor answers 9 doctors weighed in. Steroids and anti-depressants can also make you bruise more easily. It may also be due to an underlying health condition or a vitamin deficiency. Learn about how to get, Bruises arent usually serious, and they typically clear up without treatment. General Practice 11 years experience. To prevent minor bruising, take steps to avoiding falls and injuries: Unfortunately, once a bruise has formed, not much can be done to treat it. WebBleeding into the skin happens when small blood vessels burst just below your skins surface. Accessed March 14, 2022. Also known as blood poisoning, sepsis requires immediate emergency treatment. Can diet help improve depression symptoms? Bleeding and bruising (thrombocytopenia) and cancer treatment. See a doctor or other healthcare provider right away if you experience any of the following: Last medically reviewed on November 9, 2018. Bleeding under the skin may also present as pinprick-sized red or purple dots that resemble a rash. That's because you're pushing your muscles with so much effort that it leads to tiny tears in your blood vessels. It's not likely, but it's possible that your bruises are a sign of blood Also, as you get older, you tend to lose some of the fatty layer in your skin that helps protect your blood vessels from injury. For example, a person should see a doctor if: Occasional bruising is rarely a cause for concern. First, don't panic. When you strain a muscle, you injure muscle tissue deep under the skin. You're most likely to see them on the backs of your hands and arms. Excess AIcohoI intake is a common cause of bruising. Here's why you could be bruising easily, and when to see a doc. Blood diseases like aplastic anemia, white blood cell cancer, hemophilia, Von Wideband disease may cause easy bruising and prolonged bleeding. When they're not strong enough to hold red blood cells, the blood leaks out under the skin, explains Neha Vyas, M.D., a family medicine physician at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. Review/update the Turning on a light or flashlight when walking through poorly lit areas. This could indicate a serious condition that needs immediate attention. However, easy bruising can sometimes be a sign of a more serious problem. MD, Internal Medicine and Nephrology specialist.Dr. Sudden onset of easy bruising is more common with the adult type (on minor trauma or spontaneously). And a sinus headache shows up as pressure on one side They can make a diagnosis, if needed, and advise you on next steps. We avoid using tertiary references. Easy bruising sometimes indicates a serious underlying condition, such as a blood-clotting problem or a blood disease. Your provider might also check your blood platelet levels or do tests that measure the time it takes your blood to clot. There may be a blood clotting issue or another underlying condition that needs treatment. Extensive bruising secondary to vitamin C deficiency. Complete blood count shows low platelet count (less than 150,000/CC); it is usually less than 40,000/CC. Note that any significant bruising (more than five bruises) requires medical advice from your doctor. What steps can I take to lower my risk of bruising? Accessed March 14, 2022. Cushing syndrome. Hemophilia is a genetic condition wherein people lack either clotting factor VIII or IX, resulting in excessive bruising. Medications that thin your blood to prevent dangerous blood clots are a common cause of easy bruising. Fraser IM, et al. People who have fair skin often bruise easily. Drinking alcohol can make you more prone to easy bruising and bumping into things. Bruising occasionally indicates a more serious medical condition. Vitamin C or K deficiency, bleeding disorders such as hemophilia or Von Willebrand disease, or cancer can cause bruising. This may result in blood leaking from vessels and accumulating under the skin. Mayo Clinic Staff. Clinical approach to the patient with bleeding or bruising. However, if you bruise easily, you have unexplained bruising, or the bruising is accompanied by WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. But it could also be a harmless If a loved one has a bruise that can't be explained, particularly in an unusual location such as on the face, be aware of the possibility of abuse. Getting the right nutrients may also help protect against easy bruising. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. White, G. (2008). Is the ketogenic diet right for autoimmune conditions? Bruises form a mark on your skin that ranges in color from black, blue, purple, brown or yellow. This article will expand on factors in and causes of random bruising and accompanying symptoms. If youre undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatments, you may have low blood platelet counts (thrombocytopenia). It could be a sign that you've got a condition called cirrhosis, which is scarring of the liver.It's a serious illness, so see your doctor. What We Know. Dr. Michael Sparacino answered. There are several nutrient deficiencies associated with easy or random bruising, including: Vitamin C: Vitamin C is important for If you need help because of domestic violence or sexual assault, talk with a healthcare professional, or access resources and assistance through our domestic violence resource guide. Bruising Easily Anemia The term anemia refers to a condition whereby your blood has too small a number of healthy red blood cells. 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195 |, Important Updates + Notice of Vendor Data Event, (https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0215/p279-s1.html), (https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/black-eye), (https://www.aocd.org/page/BruisingHandsAndArms), (https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/blood-disorders/blood-clotting-process/bruising-and-bleeding), (https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003235.htm), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Click here for an email preview. Anticoagulants (blood thinners) and over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications like aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil), and naproxen (Aleve) affect your bloods ability to clot. People with ITP may develop bruises for no apparent reason. Most bruises go away without treatment within a couple of weeks. Skin discoloration (red to purple, black, brown or yellow). You should see your healthcare provider if you seem to bruise easily or have unexplained bruising. You'll soon start receiving the latest Mayo Clinic health information you requested in your inbox. Fortunately, Sudden bruising due to medication is self-limiting after the stoppage of the offending drug. These Broccoli Nutrition Facts Prove There's More to It Than Fiber. Watch where youre walking. If you're getting unexplained black-and-blues on the regular, it could be because of weakness in your capillaries those small, branching blood vessels throughout the body. The Causes of Bruising Easily: Anemia, Vitamin Deficiency, People can prevent vitamin deficiencies by making dietary changes and taking supplements. Learn about how to get. Another indication of possible leukemia is lots of bruises with no indication as to a cause. The discolorations can be caused by rare bleeding disorders or other rare medical conditions. 2023 Healthline Media LLC. Are you doing everything you can to stay healthy? Cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and targeted therapy, may also lead to bruising. (2011). Keeping floors and rooms clear of tripping hazards. But if you often drink a lot of alcohol and you tend to bruise easily, it may mean you've got liver problems. Clopidogrel (Plavix) is commonly used in patients with ischemic heart disease. 2023 Healthline Media LLC. Achenbach syndrome is a rare and benign condition wherein sudden bruising appears on one or more of the fingers. Mayo Clinic Staff. There are several types of bleeding that cause skin discoloration, including: Bruises are very common and will affect everyone at some point in their life. Others include Apixaban (Eliquis), Dabigatran, Enoxaparin, Heparin, and others. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Accessed March 14, 2022. Easy bruising is common with age. Easy bruising: Why does it happen? This morning on Sky's Sophy Ridge on Sunday, nurses union leader Pat Cullen attacked the government over its failure to give RCN members a decent pay rise Without enough platelets, the blood has trouble clotting. Use for informational purposes only. Mayo Clinic Staff. Heart-healthy diet: 8 steps to prevent heart disease. Vitamin C deficiency. Scurvy leads to poor wound healing, bleeding gums, and sudden onset of easy bruising. Signs and symptoms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Bruises look like a mark on your skin thats black and blue or red to purple. The forensic science behind bruise healing [Infographic]. Check out these common things that may cause those blotches and learn how to prevent them. However, random, sporadic bruising may be a symptom of something less obvious, especially if there are other symptoms. Symptoms can occur at any age, but most severe cases tend to occur during childhood. Most often, a ruptured spleen is caused by blunt force trauma. Moving furniture away from doorways and walkways to avoid bumping into hard surfaces. Vitamin C is found in: Profund vitamin C deficiency results in a condition called (scurvy), which is rare nowadays. Other symptoms of iron deficiency include: Although rare in healthy adults, vitamin K deficiencies can slow the rate at which blood clots. More indirectly, meds such as antibiotics can lead to low platelet counts, which then means you don't have enough of the cells necessary to help with blood clotting and stopping a bleed. Medications can also hinder the blood clotting process and inhibit platelet function. Some supplements, like fish oil and ginkgo, can do it too. Mayo Clinic Minute: Can you slow down age-related hearing loss? Kraut EH. information highlighted below and resubmit the form. ", Merck Manual: "Bruising and Bleeding," "Purpura Simplex. Certain health conditions (or the meds you take for those conditions) could also lead to coagulation problems basically, your body can't turn the blood from a liquid to a solid fast enough to stop you from bleeding. A lack of vitamin K which could be the result of something as simple as skimping on leafy green veggies or more serious conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, or bacterial overgrowth of the gut could lead to easy bleeding and bruising, says Dr. Elliott. If you also feel tired, achy, and weak all the time, or lose weight without trying to, give your doctor a call. (2016). "Any problems with the liver can mess with proteins necessary for clotting," says Dr. Vyas. This can cause bleeding within the skin tissue. If the condition worsens, the areas get more extensive and look like bruises. Easy bruising and bleeding are common leukemia symptoms. Mayo Clinic Staff. However, it should not appear in isolation and may appear Aging As you age, your skin gets thinner and you lose some of the protective fat that cushions your blood vessels (n.d.). Bone marrow sample (using a specialized syringe to draw a sample from your hip bone or the sternum). This accounts for around 75% of all cases of thrombocytopenia in pregnancy. Call your doctor to get a diagnosis if you think ITP is the cause of sudden easy bruising. This can cause your platelet count to drop, which will impact your bloods ability to clot and lead to easy bruising and bleeding. Meanwhile, vitamin K deficiency can contribute to significant bleeding, poor bone development, and cardiovascular disease. (n.d.). Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Last medically reviewed on December 7, 2021. For unclear reasons, girls tend to bruise more easily than boys. Certain health conditions, medications, and even inherited disorders can cause random bruising. When to worry about bruises. Neutze, D, et al. This occurs in 4.4% to 11.6% of pregnancies. Achenbach syndrome, also known as paroxysmal finger hematoma and blue finger, causes spontaneous bruising on one or more of the fingers. You bang your toe on the closet door, and before too long, it turns a garish black and blue. Erickson, F. (2014). Goldman L, et al., eds. Why do women bruise more easily than men? Broken blood vessels cause bruises to form on your skin. This may make your skin more susceptible to bruising. Bruising in leukaemia VS ordinary bruising. (2018). More severe bruising and hematomas may last a month or longer. Nosebleeds without a known cause. We avoid using tertiary references. The most common cause of vitamin C deficiency is decreased intake as with: Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting. They include anti-platelet medications that inhibit clotting cells called platelets, loke aspirin and Plavix.
