First, let’s understand how bruises occur?
Bruises occur when the body experiences an impact ranging from mild to moderate to severe, causing blood vessels under the skin to rupture and blood to leak around the area. This causes the skin in the impacted area to change color, initially turning purple, then changing to gray or green before finally turning brown. The color change corresponds with the healing process of the bruise, which typically takes 7-10 days to heal.
What kind of bruise? Dangerous, be cautious!
If after more than 10 days or about 2 weeks the bruise shows no signs of healing, and symptoms such as fever, increased pain at the bruise site, the bruise expanding in size, or bruises appearing on the body without any impact in those areas occur, these bruises may be signs of underlying diseases. You should promptly see a doctor to determine the exact cause and receive appropriate treatment.
Professional bruise care
- Apply ice within the first 48 hours
Bruises occur when an impact causes blood vessels to rupture, resulting in blood flowing near the skin. Therefore, when a bruise is noticed, immediately apply cold compresses. The cold helps heal the bruise quickly by causing the blood vessels under the skin to constrict. The correct method is to put ice in a plastic bag, wrap it in a cloth, and then apply it. Do not apply ice directly to the skin. Apply for at least 20 minutes continuously for 48 hours after the bruise first appears.
- Apply heat after 48 hours have passed
This helps increase blood circulation to the bruised area, speeding up healing. The method is to soak a towel in warm water and apply it to the bruise for 10 minutes at a time, 2-3 times a day.
- Elevate the bruised area
Keep the bruised area elevated as much as possible within the first 24 hours. This method is very important. If you have a bruise, try to rest and avoid putting too much strain on the bruised part of your body.
- Eat nutritious foods to support the immune system
Eating foods rich in vitamins and minerals helps prevent bruising and speeds up recovery. These foods include eggs, milk, fruits high in vitamin C, and dark green vegetables.
Bruises are usually not a cause for concern requiring a doctor’s consultation. However, if you have bruises that are not caused by injury and do not fade within 2 weeks, you should see a doctor to find the cause and receive appropriate treatment.
