Do Bruises Itch? Understanding Causes, Healing Process, and When to Seek Medical Attention

02.07.202214.07.2023 by alexxlab

Why do some people bruise more easily than others. How should a bruise look during the healing process. When is it necessary to consult a doctor about a bruise. What causes bruises to itch as they heal. How can you help a bruise heal faster.

Содержание

The Science Behind Bruising: What Causes These Colorful Marks?

Bruises, also known as contusions, are a common occurrence in our daily lives. They form when blood vessels beneath the skin rupture due to impact or injury, causing blood to leak into surrounding tissues. This process results in the characteristic discoloration we associate with bruises.

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

The Anatomy of a Bruise

When a bruise first appears, it typically manifests as a red or purple mark on the skin. As time progresses, the bruise undergoes a fascinating transformation, changing colors to yellow, orange, and green. This color evolution is not merely cosmetic but reflects the body’s healing process at work.

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

The Healing Journey: How Bruises Evolve Over Time

The healing process of a bruise is a testament to the body’s remarkable ability to repair itself. As the bruise matures, the body’s immune system springs into action, dispatching white blood cells to break down the blood that has accumulated in the skin and underlying tissues.

This process is not always comfortable. Many people experience itching as their bruises heal, a phenomenon Dr. Sulewski attributes to the immune response: “Bruises can itch as they are healing because the body’s immune system is breaking down the bruise. The white blood cells use chemical signaling that can lead to itching.”

The Itching Sensation: A Sign of Healing?

While the itching associated with healing bruises can be bothersome, it’s generally a positive sign that your body is actively working to repair the damage. However, if the itching becomes severe or is accompanied by other symptoms, it may be worth consulting a healthcare professional.

Bruising vs. Hematomas: Understanding the Difference

While bruises are typically superficial and resolve on their own, it’s important to distinguish them from more serious conditions like hematomas. Dr. Sulewski notes, “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.”

Unlike typical bruises, hematomas can cause significant swelling and pain, and may take longer to heal. If you suspect you have a hematoma rather than a bruise, it’s advisable to seek medical evaluation.

Accelerating the Healing Process: Tips for Faster Bruise Recovery

While most bruises will heal on their own within a week or two, there are several steps you can take to potentially speed up the process:

Rest and elevate the injured area to reduce swelling and alleviate pain
Apply ice packs for the first 24 to 48 hours after the injury
After two days, switch to applying a heating pad or warm compress
Take over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol)

It’s important to note that while nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Advil or Aleve can help with pain, you should consult your doctor before using them, as they can potentially increase bruising in some cases.

Why Some People Bruise More Easily: Unraveling the Mystery

Have you ever wondered why some people seem to bruise at the slightest touch while others rarely show a mark? The tendency to bruise easily can be attributed to various factors, ranging from medications to underlying health conditions.

Common Causes of Easy Bruising

Medications: Blood thinners, aspirin, and certain NSAIDs can increase the likelihood of bruising
Steroid use: Medications like prednisone can thin the skin, making it more susceptible to bruising
Sun damage: Excessive sun exposure over time can weaken blood vessels, leading to easier bruising
Nutritional deficiencies: Low levels of vitamin C or K can affect blood clotting and vessel strength
Blood disorders: Conditions that affect platelet count or function can lead to increased bruising
Age: As we get older, our skin becomes thinner and blood vessels more fragile
Certain medical conditions: Diseases affecting the liver or blood can increase bruising tendencies

If you find yourself bruising frequently or easily, it’s worth discussing with your healthcare provider to rule out any underlying issues.

When to Seek Medical Attention: Red Flags for Bruising

While most bruises are harmless and resolve on their own, there are circumstances where medical evaluation is warranted. Dr. Sulewski advises, “If your bruise remains for more than a month or is extremely painful or swollen, you should have it checked by your doctor.”

Other signs that warrant medical attention include:

Multiple unexplained bruises
Bruises that keep recurring in the same area
Bruising accompanied by excessive bleeding from other areas (e.g., nosebleeds, bleeding gums)
Bruises that appear for no apparent reason
Bruising accompanied by other symptoms like fever or general malaise

In these cases, your doctor may order additional tests, such as X-rays to check for bone fractures or blood tests to evaluate clotting function and check for vitamin deficiencies.

The Role of Nutrition in Bruise Prevention and Healing

While we can’t always prevent accidents that lead to bruises, maintaining a healthy diet can play a crucial role in both preventing excessive bruising and promoting faster healing when bruises do occur.

Key Nutrients for Healthy Blood Vessels and Clotting

Vitamin C: Essential for collagen production, which strengthens blood vessel walls
Vitamin K: Plays a vital role in blood clotting
Bioflavonoids: Found in fruits and vegetables, these compounds support blood vessel health
Iron: Necessary for hemoglobin production and overall blood health
Zinc: Supports wound healing and immune function

Incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into your diet can help ensure you’re getting these important nutrients. If you’re concerned about deficiencies, consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian before starting any supplements.

Bruising in Athletes: Prevention and Management Strategies

Athletes, particularly those involved in contact sports, are often more prone to bruising. While some level of bruising is inevitable in many sports, there are strategies that can help minimize the risk and severity of bruises.

Protective Measures for Athletes

Wear appropriate protective gear: This includes padding for vulnerable areas specific to your sport
Proper warm-up: Preparing your muscles and increasing blood flow can help reduce the risk of injury
Strength training: Building muscle can provide additional protection to underlying blood vessels
Hydration: Staying well-hydrated helps maintain the elasticity of blood vessels
Nutrition: Ensure adequate intake of vitamins and minerals that support blood vessel health

For athletes who experience frequent bruising, working with a sports medicine specialist can help develop personalized strategies for prevention and management.

The Psychological Impact of Bruising: More Than Skin Deep

While bruises are often seen as minor physical injuries, they can have psychological impacts, especially when they occur frequently or in visible areas. For some individuals, excessive bruising can lead to self-consciousness or anxiety about their appearance or health.

Coping Strategies for Frequent Bruisers

Education: Understanding the causes and healing process of bruises can alleviate anxiety
Open communication: Discuss concerns with healthcare providers and loved ones
Concealment techniques: For visible bruises, learning safe makeup techniques can boost confidence
Stress management: Chronic stress can impact healing, so incorporating stress-reduction techniques may be beneficial
Support groups: Connecting with others who experience similar issues can provide emotional support

Remember, if bruising is causing significant distress or impacting your quality of life, it’s important to seek support from healthcare professionals who can address both the physical and emotional aspects of the issue.

Innovations in Bruise Treatment: Looking to the Future

While the basic principles of bruise care have remained consistent over time, ongoing research is exploring new ways to prevent bruising and accelerate healing. Some emerging areas of interest include:

Promising Developments in Bruise Care

Advanced topical treatments: Creams or gels that can speed up the breakdown of bruises
Light therapy: Use of specific wavelengths of light to stimulate healing
Nanotechnology: Targeted delivery of healing agents to bruised areas
Genetic research: Understanding genetic factors that influence bruising susceptibility
Wearable tech: Devices that can detect and monitor bruising in real-time

While many of these technologies are still in developmental stages, they offer exciting possibilities for improved bruise management in the future. As always, it’s essential to consult with healthcare professionals before trying any new treatments or technologies.

Understanding the science behind bruising, from its causes to its healing process, empowers us to better care for our bodies. Whether you’re an athlete prone to frequent bruising or someone who simply wants to understand why that last bump left such a colorful mark, knowledge is key. Remember, while most bruises are harmless and will heal on their own, paying attention to unusual bruising patterns or symptoms can help catch potential underlying issues early. By combining this awareness with proper nutrition, protective strategies, and prompt attention when needed, we can navigate the world of bruises with confidence and care.

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.

Bruises and hematomas: general information

Is there a difference between a bruise and a hematoma, when to apply heat, and when cold – all the most important thing about bruises

Any injury ruptures tiny blood vessels called capillaries. Blood accumulates under the surface of the skin and appears as black-blue spots. “Hematoma” is a medical term that originated from the words “blood” and “tumor”, while the word “bruise” is a vernacular.

How bruises appear

The cause of any hematoma is damage to the wall of a blood vessel as a result of fractures, dislocations, bruises, surgical and cosmetic manipulations.

The more severe the injury and the more blood flows from the vessel, the faster the hematoma appears after the injury. Light bruises occur 24 hours after the bruise, moderate bruising – after 3-5 hours, severe – after 1-2 hours. Severe and extensive hematomas require surgical treatment, moderate – conservative.

Bruise life cycle:

1. From a damaged blood vessel, blood flows into the surrounding tissues, forming a cavity. Fresh blood is red, jelly-like, with purple clots. The damaged area turns red, swells and hurts a lot.

2. After 3-4 hours the blood coagulates: the bruise darkens and becomes black-violet.

3. Within 10-14 days, the hemoglobin contained in the coagulated blood breaks down. The bruise changes color: turns green, turns yellow, turns pale.

4. Clots dissolve, clotted blood is sucked back into the bloodstream – pain and swelling subside.

Approximate bruise healing time is 1.5-2 weeks.

Risk factors

There are circumstances that make a person bruise more often and take longer to heal:

· Fragility of vessel walls. Where the elastic vessel withstands a slight blow, the fragile one breaks – and a bruise appears. Fragility of blood vessels occurs with a deficiency of certain vitamins and microelements, atherosclerosis, diabetes mellitus, poor training of blood vessels (as a result of a sedentary lifestyle).

· Blood clotting disorders: liver disease or use of blood-thinning drugs.

What bruises should alert

If the bruise continues to hurt after 5-7 days, becomes hot, pulsates, the edema does not decrease, it is necessary to urgently contact the surgeon. If there are a lot of bruises, they appear out of the blue, “for no reason” – this requires a consultation with a therapist.
When a bacterial infection is attached, the hematoma is filled with purulent or serous contents. The bruise does not resolve, but thickens, pain and swelling increase. An abscess develops. An abscess requires surgical intervention: opening, washing, applying a bandage, prescribing antibiotics.

Complications of hematomas

If the hematoma does not resolve for a long time, it begins to scar and form fibrous tissue. An old hematoma retains hardness, soreness, and can become inflamed. The principle of treatment of bruises: first stop the bleeding, then – accelerate healing.

How to treat bruises

· First 24 hours: stop bleeding

Dry cold should be applied as soon as possible: it will constrict blood vessels, prevent large amounts of blood from flowing out, reduce swelling and pain. At home, you can take something from the freezer and apply it through a soft cloth for 5-10 minutes intermittently.

Relieve inflammation, pain and accelerate resorption

The next stage of healing is to accelerate blood flow at the site of injury. You can gently apply dry heat (a warm cloth, for example) to increase circulation. At the same time, it is necessary to start using means that promote the healing of bruises. Note that for the first two to three days, a very hot bath or shower can increase bleeding and swelling.

Folk methods

Folk remedies relieve the condition a little, but you should not count on a serious therapeutic effect.

Table salt

Hypertonic (saturated) salt solution relieves swelling. You need to dissolve 1 tablespoon of salt in a liter of water. Soak a soft cloth in the solution and apply to the bruise.

Cabbage

Cabbage from the refrigerator can be used as a cold compress. It is recommended to knead the cabbage leaf so that the juice appears and apply to the bruise. Due to the released juice, the cabbage leaf acts as a saturated solution, therefore it relieves swelling.

Pharmaceutical remedies for bruises

An example of a “bruise” drug is Detragel. It contains a combination of three active ingredients: heparin, escin and essential phospholipids [3]. When applied, essential phospholipids form special structures – liposomes, which contribute to the rapid penetration of heparin and escin into the skin [4]. Heparin is a natural anticoagulant that reduces blood viscosity and reduces inflammation. Escin strengthens the walls of blood vessels and enhances microcirculation, helping to restore damaged tissues [2].

THERE ARE CONTRAINDICATIONS. IT IS NECESSARY TO CONSULT WITH A SPECIALIST.

1. Glukhov A.A., Fundamentals of care for surgical patients. Moscow: GEOTAR-Media. – 2008.
2. Escin: pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and therapeutic profile https://pubmed. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11529685 3. Instructions for the medical use of the drug Detragel ® LP-001044 https://detralex.ru/products/detragel/
4. Savelyeva MI Possibilities of transdermal drug delivery systems used in chronic venous diseases. Phlebology. 2018;12(1): 40-49

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 not clear 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?

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

Beetle bite

The bite of an insect 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 itching of the skin, may be a sign of leukemia. Other symptoms of leukemia include:

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

9 0109

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

9 0093 vomiting

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 some ways 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 a 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.