Causes and risk factors
Any blunt injury or trauma caused due to fall or severe blow or an accident is the most common cause of a bruise. This causes breakage or rupture of the blood vessels under the skin. The blood gets accumulated under the surface, resulting in discoloration of the skin. Some family members have a hereditary tendency of easy bruising. Easy bruising is more commonly seen in old people as the skin becomes less flexible and thin by age, making it more vulnerable.
Clinical presentation:
There are three types of bruises: Muscle, bone, and skin. Among the three, skin bruises are the most commonly seen. Bone bruises are rare and a severe form which takes prolonged time to heal. Unlike any other injury, pain is the predominant feature seen along with swelling and discoloration. Dull, aching pain is seen. Movement can aggravate the pain. Soreness is felt by patient. Initially, reddish discoloration is seen. Later it starts turning bluish purple in color. Over time it becomes greenish yellow and ultimately black in color. The area is tender to touch. Hematoma formation is a common complication seen in some cases.
Investigations:
Diagnosis is done on the basis of clinical examination. There is often a history of injury or fall or blow. X-ray of the affected area or MRI or CT scan can be done to detect the involvement of the underlying cause.
Treatment:
As in the majority of cases, the complaints are mild, hence in most of the cases no medical intervention is required. The patient can recover well without much treatment. Usually the discoloration takes about 2 weeks to months to fade away. Application of ice is advised to help reduce the pain. Rest and elevation of affected area are advised. Pain relieving medications are prescribed.
Other Modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up with the symptom. Taking into consideration the symptoms in a holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints from bruises.
