A bruise forms when blood vessels under the skin break. The trapped blood creates a bruise that's black, purple or blue then changes color as it heals.
You can enhance bruise healing with a few simple techniques.
- Elevate the bruised area above heart level, if possible.
- Apply an ice pack wrapped in a thin towel. Leave it in place for 20 minutes. Repeat several times for a day or two after the injury. This helps to reduce the swelling and pain.
- If the bruised area is swelling, put an elastic bandage around it, but not too tight.
If the skin isn't broken, you don't need to bandage a bruise. Consider taking a nonprescription pain reliever if needed.
- Have very painful swelling in the bruised area.
- Suspect a bruise has been caused by child abuse, domestic violence or elder abuse.
- Still have pain three days after a minor injury.
- Have frequent, large or painful bruises.
- Have bruises that begin suddenly or seem to develop for no reason.
- Have a personal or family history of easy bruising or bleeding.
- Notice a lump form over the bruise, which may be a sign of pooling blood, also called a hematoma.
- Have unusual bleeding, such as from the nose or gums.
Show References
- Thompson DA. Skin injury. In: Adult Telephone Protocols: Office Version. 5th ed. American Academy of Pediatrics; 2022.
- Schmitt BD. Skin injury (bruises, cuts, and scrapes). In: Pediatric Telephone Protocols: Office Version. 17th ed. American Academy of Pediatrics; 2021.
- Muscle contusion (bruise). American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/muscle-contusion-bruise. Accessed Sept. 12, 2022.
- Patient education: Taking care of bruises (The basics). https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Sept. 12, 2022.
Original article: https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-bruise/basics/art-20056663