Bruises

A bruise is blood that enters tissue beneath the skin after damage to small blood vessels. It usually follows a knock, and the body clears the blood within two to four weeks. Large, unexplained or rapidly growing bruises need extra attention.

• Briefly cool a fresh bruise with a wrapped cold compress, rest it and raise the body part.
• Colour may change from red or purple to green, yellow and brown. This is usually a normal part of recovery.
• A large swelling or severe pain may indicate a deeper haematoma, muscle injury, fracture or pressure on nerves and blood vessels.
• Frequent bruises without a clear reason may relate to medicines, fragile skin, platelets or clotting.
• Never stop blood thinners yourself. Discuss unexpected bleeding with a doctor or pharmacist the same day.