Bruises are commonplace injuries, and they’re often nothing to be concerned about. Bruises, also known as contusions, are caused by physical trauma that causes the blood vessels beneath the skin to break. However, the skin itself doesn’t sustain direct damage. So, you’ll see the area turn black and blue, and you might have some localized pain and swelling as well.
Usually, bruises will heal on their own, and they are easy to attribute to specific causes. However, you may get frequent bruises from relatively minor injuries, or you might see bruises appear without remembering their cause.
Why You Bruise Easily
Bruising easily isn’t always a sign of something serious. In fact, most people who bruise easily are experiencing the side effects of medications and supplements, such as aspirin, heart arrhythmia medications, and dietary supplements like vitamin E. In addition, women are more likely to bruise easier than men. Still, there are medical conditions that could cause frequent bruising including blood diseases, vitamin deficiencies, and autoimmune disorders.
When to Call a Doctor
It’s never a bad idea to check in with your doctor if you’re worried about a bruise or other type of minor injury. Signs of concern that you should definitely run by your doctor are slow healing of a bruised area, bruises in areas that are unlikely to sustain an injury (such as the torso), and bruises that cover an unusually large area of the body or are very painful.
MeMD can provide quick, convenient medical care at a moment’s notice to address minor injuries like bruises, cuts, and sprains. Visit our website to connect with a U.S. licensed medical professional for a virtual urgent care visit.
