• Bruises are injuries to the soft tissue

• It is an 'area of discoloration' on the skin

• Other names - Hematoma, Contusion

• Can last for days to several months

Causes

• Sports Injuries

• Accidents

• Falls

• Blows from objects/people

• Chances increase if taking medications, like Aspirin

Types

• Subcutaneous-underneath the skin

• Intramuscular - within the underlying muscles

• Periosteal-bruise related to bone

Related events

• Small veins and capillaries under the skin breaks

• Blood escapes and collects under skin

• In the beginning bruises look purplish or red

• In 2 days it may change to black or blue color

• It changes to a green/yellow color in 5 days

• Changes to a brown shade in 10-14 days 

• It further lightens and fades away

• The changing colors indicates red cell metabolism

Symptoms

• Pain

• Swelling

• Discoloration

Treatment

• Most bruises vanish in 2 weeks time

• No bandage required if skin is not broken

• Keep bruised area raised

• Apply cold compress, ½ hr to one hr at a time

• Continue this for two days

• Do not apply ice directly on skin

• Can take pain killing medications, like acetaminophen 

• Avoid draining the bruise using needle

• Avoid using the bruised part

• For more serious injury consult a doctor

• Consult also in case of spontaneous injury/infection

• Protein-bioflavinoids-Vit C rich food helps healing

Prevention

• Teach children safety measures

• Avoid falls around house

• Wear seat belts while driving

• Wear helmet while riding

• While sporting, pad frequently- bruised areas