Why Do Bruises Itch? Understanding Causes, Treatments, and When to Seek Medical Attention

29.06.202214.07.2023 by alexxlab

What causes bruises to itch during the healing process. How can you alleviate itching associated with bruises. When should you consult a doctor about an itchy bruise.

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The Science Behind Bruising: Formation and Healing Process

Bruises, also known as contusions, occur when small blood vessels beneath the skin rupture due to an injury, causing blood to leak into the surrounding tissues. This results in the characteristic discoloration we associate with bruises. But why do some bruises itch as they heal?

The itching sensation often experienced during the healing process of a bruise is primarily due to the body’s immune response. As white blood cells work to break down and remove the leaked blood, they release chemical signals that can trigger nerve endings in the skin, leading to itchiness.

Stages of Bruise Healing

Initial stage: Red or purplish appearance
Middle stage: Bluish or greenish hue
Final stage: Yellow or brown coloration

During these stages, the body’s natural healing processes are at work, gradually reabsorbing the leaked blood and repairing damaged tissues. The changing colors reflect the breakdown of hemoglobin, the protein responsible for carrying oxygen in our blood.

Common Causes of Itchy Bruises

While itching is a normal part of the healing process for many bruises, certain factors can exacerbate this sensation:

Dry skin in the affected area
Allergic reactions to topical treatments
Increased blood flow to the bruised area during healing
Nerve stimulation as the bruise heals
Histamine release as part of the inflammatory response

Understanding these causes can help in managing the discomfort associated with itchy bruises more effectively.

Effective Treatments for Itchy Bruises

While the urge to scratch an itchy bruise can be strong, it’s important to resist this temptation as it may lead to further damage or infection. Instead, consider these treatment options:

Cold Therapy

Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the bruised area can help reduce inflammation and alleviate itching. Wrap the ice pack in a thin towel and apply it for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.

Topical Treatments

Over-the-counter antihistamine creams or calamine lotion can help soothe itchy skin. For severe itching, a doctor may recommend a topical corticosteroid cream.

Oral Medications

In some cases, oral antihistamines may be beneficial in reducing itching associated with bruises. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication.

Natural Remedies

Some people find relief from itchy bruises through natural remedies such as:

Aloe vera gel
Witch hazel
Arnica cream
Vitamin K cream

While these remedies may provide relief for some individuals, it’s important to note that scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited.

Preventing Itchy Bruises: Tips and Strategies

While it’s not always possible to prevent bruises entirely, there are steps you can take to minimize their occurrence and reduce the likelihood of developing itchy bruises:

Wear protective gear during physical activities
Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins C and K
Stay hydrated to support skin health
Use moisturizers to prevent dry skin
Be cautious with blood-thinning medications

By implementing these strategies, you can potentially reduce the frequency and severity of bruises, as well as minimize associated itching.

Understanding Easy Bruising: Causes and Risk Factors

Some individuals may find that they bruise more easily than others. This tendency can be attributed to various factors:

Age-Related Changes

As we age, our skin becomes thinner and less elastic, making it more susceptible to bruising. Additionally, the fatty layer beneath the skin that provides cushioning diminishes, offering less protection against impacts.

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions can increase the likelihood of easy bruising:

Blood disorders (e.g., hemophilia, von Willebrand disease)
Liver disease
Kidney disease
Certain types of cancer
Vitamin deficiencies (particularly vitamins C and K)

Medications

Some medications can affect blood clotting and increase the risk of bruising:

Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin, heparin)
Aspirin and other NSAIDs
Corticosteroids

If you notice an increased tendency to bruise easily, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Itchy Bruises

While most bruises heal on their own without complications, there are instances where medical attention may be necessary. Be aware of the following warning signs:

Excessive swelling or pain around the bruised area
Bruises that don’t fade or heal after several weeks
Frequent, unexplained bruising
Bruising accompanied by other symptoms like fever or fatigue
Bruises that occur after starting a new medication
Itching that becomes severe or persistent

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation.

Complications Associated with Itchy Bruises

While rare, certain complications can arise from bruises, especially if they are severe or if proper care is not taken:

Hematoma

A hematoma is a more serious form of bruising where blood collects and pools under the skin, forming a noticeable lump. Large hematomas may require medical intervention to drain the collected blood.

Infection

If the skin over a bruise becomes broken, either due to the initial injury or excessive scratching, there’s a risk of bacterial infection. Signs of infection include increased redness, warmth, swelling, and pain.

Compartment Syndrome

In rare cases, severe bruising can lead to compartment syndrome, a serious condition where pressure builds up in an enclosed space in the body, potentially damaging nerves and blood vessels. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.

Myositis Ossificans

This condition involves the formation of bone tissue within muscle after a severe bruise or contusion. It’s more common in athletes and can cause long-term pain and reduced mobility if not properly managed.

Being aware of these potential complications underscores the importance of proper bruise care and seeking medical attention when necessary.

The Role of Nutrition in Bruise Healing and Prevention

Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in both the prevention of bruising and the healing process. Certain nutrients are particularly important:

Vitamin C

This essential vitamin is crucial for collagen production, which helps strengthen blood vessel walls. Good sources of vitamin C include:

Citrus fruits
Bell peppers
Strawberries
Broccoli
Kiwi fruit

Vitamin K

Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and can help reduce the severity of bruising. Foods rich in vitamin K include:

Leafy green vegetables (e.g., kale, spinach)
Brussels sprouts
Broccoli
Cabbage
Herbs like parsley and cilantro

Zinc

Zinc plays a role in wound healing and immune function. Good sources of zinc include:

Lean meats
Seafood
Nuts and seeds
Legumes
Whole grains

Protein

Adequate protein intake is crucial for tissue repair and healing. Include a variety of protein sources in your diet, such as:

Lean meats and poultry
Fish
Eggs
Dairy products
Legumes and plant-based proteins

By ensuring a balanced diet rich in these nutrients, you can support your body’s natural healing processes and potentially reduce the likelihood and severity of bruising.

Alternative Therapies for Managing Itchy Bruises

While conventional treatments are typically effective for managing itchy bruises, some individuals may be interested in exploring alternative or complementary therapies. It’s important to note that the effectiveness of these methods may vary, and they should not replace professional medical advice.

Acupuncture

This traditional Chinese medicine technique involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. Some practitioners believe that acupuncture can help improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation, potentially aiding in bruise healing and itch relief.

Aromatherapy

Certain essential oils are thought to have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Oils that may be beneficial for bruises include:

Lavender
Frankincense
Helichrysum
Geranium

Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying to the skin, and perform a patch test to check for any allergic reactions.

Herbal Remedies

Some herbs are believed to have properties that may help with bruise healing and itch relief:

Arnica: Often used topically for bruises and inflammation
Bromelain: An enzyme found in pineapple, thought to reduce swelling
Comfrey: Contains compounds that may support skin healing

It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies, as they can interact with medications and may not be suitable for everyone.

Mind-Body Techniques

Practices that focus on the mind-body connection may help manage discomfort and promote overall well-being:

Meditation
Deep breathing exercises
Guided imagery
Progressive muscle relaxation

These techniques can help reduce stress and may provide a distraction from the itching sensation associated with healing bruises.

While these alternative therapies may offer some benefits, it’s important to approach them with caution and always in conjunction with, not as a replacement for, conventional medical advice and treatment.

Bruising 101: Why some people bruise easily, how bruises should look during healing and when to see a doctor

What causes bruising?

Bruises occur when blood comes out of blood vessels into the skin or just below the skin’s surface. Bruises can occur from a fall, accident, sports injury or medical procedure.

“Everyone experiences bruising, but they are more common in older people,” says dermatologist Ronald Sulewski, MD. “There are also some bleeding disorders and medical conditions that can make you more prone to bruising.”

What do bruises look like?

Bruises typically show up as red or purple dark spots or patches. They can change into various colors, including yellow, orange and green, as they evolve over a week or so.

“These changing colors in the skin are the result of hemoglobin being broken down by the body,” Dr. Sulewski explains. “Hemoglobin is the protein that carries oxygen to our tissues in our blood.”

How do bruises heal?

Bruises heal as the body’s immune system (white blood cells) breaks down the blood in the skin and under the skin over time.

“Bruises can itch as they are healing because the body’s immune system is breaking down the bruise,” says Dr. Sulewski. “The white blood cells use chemical signaling that can lead to itching.”

Can bruising cause blood clots or swelling?

Visible bruising in the skin is a superficial process. Signs of other deeper blood clots are usually swelling of the tissue and pain.

“Bruising can cause swelling, especially if more blood is present than the average bruise,” says Dr. Sulewski. “Sometimes patients get hematomas, which are larger and deeper than a bruise.”

Hematomas can be painful and swollen and can affect internal organs. They may require medical attention.

How can I help my bruise go away?

Most bruises will resolve within a week or two without treatment. Severe bruising and hematomas can last for a month or longer. To heal faster, you can:

Rest and elevate the injured area to reduce swelling and relieve pain
Apply ice packs for the first 24 to 48 hours after injury
Apply a heating pad or warm compress to the injured area after two days
Take over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol). Check with your doctor before using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Advil or Aleve

Why do I bruise so easily?

Many things can cause frequent bruising. Most of these causes aren’t serious and don’t require treatment. You should discuss with your doctor to pinpoint what is causing your frequent or unexplained bruising.

Things that may cause you to bruise more easily include:

Medications to thin blood/prevent clotting, like aspirin or blood thinners
NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen
Use of steroids, such as prednisone
Past excessive sun exposure
Low blood platelet count
Vitamin C or vitamin K deficiency
Bleeding disorders
Medical conditions like cancer or liver disease

When should I see a doctor about my bruise?

“If you have a bruise that doesn’t go away, it might actually be a skin lesion rather than a bruise,” explains Dr. Sulewski. “If your bruise remains for more than a month or is extremely painful or swollen, you should have it checked by your doctor. ”

Also, if you have multiple, unexplained bruises or a bruise that keeps returning to the same area, your doctor may order tests to pinpoint the cause. Tests may include X-rays to check for bone fractures and blood tests to check for clotting disorders and vitamin deficiencies.

Why do bruises itch? Causes, treatments, and when to see a doctor

A bruise develops when an injury does not break the skin’s surface but still causes small blood vessels just below the surface to break, leaking blood into the surrounding tissue.

Bruises are also called contusions.

Most bruises heal without medical treatment, and it is normal for a bruise to change colors and even itch during this process.

A bruise will look different according to a person’s skin color and may be more difficult to identify on darker skin. In general, bruises appear as discolored or darker patches on the skin.

Learn more about how to identify bruises on darker skin here.

Bruises can look red or purple when they first appear, changing to yellowy-green as they heal. This is the time when bruises may start itching.

Muscles and bones can bruise, too. Bruises can cause the surrounding areas to become swollen, stiff, and sore. A bruised muscle may cause reduced motion, while more severe bruises, or hematomas, can cause a raised, swollen, and painful bump to form.

Researchers have not determined why some bruises itch. Contributing factors can include dry skin and the healing process itself.

Dry skin is often itchy. If people with dry skin develop a bruise, the area can become very sensitive and painful. If a person does not moisturize the dry skin where the bruise is, the bruise might become itchy.

Older adults may be particularly vulnerable to itchy bruises since they tend to bruise more easily and are more likely to have dry skin.

Long-lasting bruises on the hands and arms are called actinic purpura.

Most often seen in older adults, actinic purpura typically develop due to thin skin, weakened blood vessels, and the use of steroids and blood thinners, such as coumadin and alcohol. People with dry skin may develop itchy bruises.

Bruises are a type of wound known as a pressure wound. According to a 2015 article, itching is a typical healing response for all types of wounds.

Experts say histamine, which the body releases as a wound heals, and high bilirubin levels, which can also increase as wounds heal, can cause itching.

Sometimes, bruises develop as a result of an itch. For example, some people are so sensitive to bites from mosquitos, bed bugs, or other pests that they scratch hard enough to give themselves bruises.

An itchy bruise is usually not a sign of infection.

Experts list increasing pain and swelling, expanding discoloration of the skin, pus, and feeling sick as key signs of wound infection. They do not mention itching as a sign.

Additionally, while many different infections, such as cellulitis, folliculitis, impetigo, and chickenpox, can affect the skin, these do not resemble bruises.

According to the American Cancer Society, itching can have associations with severe illnesses, such as leukemia, cancer of the blood cells. However, when a person has leukemia or another blood cancer, they typically experience itching over their whole body, not just one spot. A person cannot trace this kind of itching back to a rash, bruise, or dry skin.

The basic treatment for bruises, whether they itch or not, involves:

resting and elevating the bruised area if possible and comfortable
icing the site in the first 2 days after the injury
applying heat to the injury after 48 hours
taking over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief medication, if needed

Further treatment can benefit an itchy bruise:

washing the bruised area with warm, not hot, water
using gentle, non-irritating soap
applying soothing lotions to treat dry skin and calm the itch
taking OTC antihistamines, if needed

People who have what appears to be an itchy bruise but have no apparent reason for a bruise may have a skin condition that causes a rash.

For example, skin conditions, such as eczema or atopic dermatitis can cause rashes that are so itchy that people bruise themselves while scratching or rubbing.

The condition can also cause the skin to discolor over time, so the affected area looks more like a bruise than a rash.

Psoriasis is another common skin condition. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation in 2014, more than 8 million people in the United States had psoriasis. Psoriasis can cause itchy scales to develop anywhere on the body, particularly the knees, elbows, and scalp.

When People of Color have psoriasis, their plaques tend to be purple, grayish, or darker brown and may look more like bruises than psoriasis plaques.

The majority of bruises heal without medical treatment. Indications that it may be time to contact a doctor for treatment include:

frequently bruising with no apparent reason
having a bruise that lasts for more than 2 weeks without much improvement
developing signs of infection, such as increasing redness or swelling, around the bruise

Experiencing significant pain or pressure in the injured area may signify a serious condition called compartment syndrome, which requires prompt medical treatment.

Bruises are very common injuries that generally heal on their own without medical treatment.

During the healing process, it is normal for bruises to change color, and some people may experience itching as well.

Experts have not determined one particular cause for itchy bruises, although dry skin and the natural healing process may be factors.

Some skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, may cause rashes that people might confuse with bruises.

It is also possible for people to develop bruises after intensely scratching their skin due to another condition, such as an insect bite or eczema.

Anyone who experiences bruising that seems unusual, infected, or very painful, see a healthcare professional.

Why does this bruise itch and what can I do about it? – Drink-Drink

A bruise, also called a bruise, occurs when a small blood vessel just below the surface of the skin ruptures and blood seeps into the surrounding tissue.

Bruises are most often caused by trauma, such as a fall or a blow to something, but they can also be caused by muscle strains, sprains, or broken bones.

Certain medical conditions can make you more prone to bruising, especially conditions that cause low platelets or bleeding disorders such as thrombocytopenia. You may also be more prone to bruising as you age because your skin gets thinner and you have less fat under your skin.

In addition to bruising, you may also experience pain and tenderness at the site of injury. The bruise will change color from red to purple and brown to yellow before disappearing completely.

Some people report that their bruise itches, which is medically known as itching, although it is not clear why.

Some medical conditions, such as leukemia and liver disease, and some drugs, such as chemotherapy, can cause both bruising and itching of the skin. Scratching the itchy area too hard can also lead to bruising.

However, in the absence of other conditions, it is unclear why a bruise might itch during healing. There are several theories, but no definitive conclusion has been drawn. Unless you have other symptoms, an itchy bruise is unlikely to be a cause for concern and will likely go away in a few days.

Itchy bruising causes

In the absence of underlying disease, it is not clear why a bruise might itch during healing. Theories include:

Your skin can be dry if you avoid using moisturizers on a tender bruise, which can cause itching.
When red blood cells break down, they release a compound known as bilirubin. High levels of bilirubin are known to cause itching.
Increases blood circulation in the damaged area. Circulation is necessary to remove waste products and renew cells. Itching and tingling of the skin can be a sign of increased circulation. It may also be related to how the nerves respond to increased blood flow during wound healing.
Bruises can also increase histamine levels due to inflammation in the area. Histamine is known to cause itching.

It is also well known that dry skin can become itchy. Dry skin can be caused by health problems such as diabetes or kidney disease, or living in a cold and dry climate. Older people tend to bruise more easily and are also prone to dry and itchy skin.

What can cause bruising and itching along with a rash or lesion?

The bruise may appear itchy if the bruise itself was caused by scratching an underlying rash, lesion, or bump caused by something else.

Beetle bite

An insect bite such as a mosquito, fire ant, tick or flea can cause excessive scratching. This is because your body is reacting to the poison or other proteins the insects inject into you.

If you scratch the skin too hard, you can damage the skin and cause bruising. The bug bite and the bruised area will continue to itch until your body stops responding to the bite. Some types of mites can also cause an itchy, bruised rash.

Leukemia

Although rare, frequent bruising or bruising that does not heal, along with itchy skin, can be a sign of leukemia. Other symptoms of leukemia include:

fatigue
pale skin
frequent bleeding
bone pain
swollen lymph node
weight loss

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Breast cancer

Inflammatory breast cancer may look like a bruise on the chest . Your breasts may also feel tender and warm, and you may find swelling on or near your breasts. The breasts may also itch, especially near the nipple.

Liver disease

Some types of liver disease, including liver cancer and cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver, can also cause itchy skin and bruising.

Other symptoms of liver disease include:

unexplained weight loss
yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
dark urine
abdominal pain and swelling
nausea

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fatigue

Medicines, including including chemotherapy and antibiotics, can also cause itchy skin and easy bruising.

Treating an itchy bruise

If itching is caused by dry skin, here are a few things you can do to help:

Apply moisturizer to your skin every day.
Avoid hot showers. Instead, use warm water.
Use mild soap in the shower.
Try using a humidifier to add moisture to the air.
Avoid scratches.

Talk to your doctor if you think bruising or itching is a side effect of the medicine.

For an insect bite or rash, try the following to relieve itching:

Apply topical anti-itch creams.
Take oral pain relievers.
Use antihistamines.
Apply a thin paste of baking soda and water to the bite site.

Avoid scratching the bug bite. Scratching can damage the skin and lead to infection.

In most cases, bruises go away on their own without care. The body reabsorbs the blood over several days. You can apply a cold compress if there is swelling and pain along with the bruise.

Conclusion

The reason why the bruise may itch during healing is unclear, but there are several theories. A bruise that itches while healing is most likely not a cause for concern.

Some medical conditions can cause both itchy skin and easy bruising. If you notice any other symptoms along with itching and bruising, or if you think a medication is causing your symptoms, see your doctor. You should also see a doctor if your body itches easily and bruises for no apparent reason.

Bruises on the body indicate dangerous diseases

May 20, 2021
14:31

How often do many of us get domestic injuries at home or on the street! A hematoma quickly appears at the site of the injury. But what if bruises on the body occur by accident? In the program “About the Most Important” on the channel “Russia 1” they said that this could be a sign of serious illness.

Irina Khodkevich from Chekhov turned to the program “About the Most Important Thing”. She cannot, as before, wear her favorite sundresses and skirts, because bruises began to appear on her arms, legs and even her stomach. On the air of the Russia 1 channel, Sergey Agapkin and Mikhail Politseymako, together with a hepatologist, gastroenterologist, candidate of medical sciences Pavel Bogomolov, discussed diseases that may indicate random hematomas.

Spontaneous bruising is one of the symptoms of liver disease. Other signs that this organ is out of order include swelling, drowsiness, yellowing of the whites of the eyes, and impaired concentration. The heroine is already familiar with some of these symptoms.

“Spontaneous bleeding, bruising is either a rather aggressive course of hepatitis, or emerging or already formed cirrhosis of the liver,” the doctor said.

He added that when liver functions are impaired due to disease, the synthesis of coagulation factors is reduced, which can manifest itself in the form of bleeding. In patients with liver diseases, not only plasma factors of the blood coagulation system decrease, but also cellular ones. These people have low platelet counts, so minimal or no exposure results in skin changes that resemble bruises.

The spectator showed a slight enlargement of the liver, but no other evidence of hepatitis was found. The doctor recommended that she undergo an additional examination.

If you are faced with cirrhosis of the liver, in the first place, according to Pavel Bogomolov, you must give up alcohol. Carbonated sweet drinks are also banned. In addition, Bogomolov advises a diet with limited salt intake. Fermented milk products should appear in the diet, which will help prevent hepatic encephalopathy and infectious complications of liver cirrhosis.

As for the treatment of liver cirrhosis, hepatoprotectors should not be used. “If the cause of the disease is viruses, then we prescribe only antiviral therapy. If the cause of the disease is overweight, insulin resistance, then we prescribe drugs that affect insulin resistance. If these are autoimmune hepatitis, we prescribe hormonal drugs,” the doctor said.

Even more interesting news is in our Telegram channel @smotrim_ru .