Last medically reviewed on June 28, 2020, A bruise usually results from a blow to the body. The American Cancer Society says that leukemia can cause a number of symptoms including weight loss, constant tiredness, recurrent infections, and unexplained bleeding.22. Most bruises form when small blood vessels (capillaries) near the skin's surface are broken by the impact of a blow or injury often on the arms or legs. Liver disease may also make legs swell and cause intestinal bleeding.18. If your bruising is tied to medication overuse, you may also experience: If you suspect that your bruising is a result of OTC or prescription medication use, see a doctor. Dr. Blahd says that if you have no other symptoms, then random bruising is nothing to worry about. Random bruising: Is it serious? Causes, treatment, and prevention Along with the discoloration associated with a bruise, hematomas can also cause the area to feel hard or firm to the touch. Signs and symptoms of non-hodgkin lymphoma. There are various risk factors associated with random and easy bruising, such as genetics, age, and sex. Unexplained Bruising: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention - Verywell Health Take the mixture and pour it into a muslin bag and squeeze it into a pan. Mayo Clinic Staff. If you find yourself in pain because of the bruise, you can apply a cold compress and keep the bruise elevated above the heart. Viral infections can also cause random bruising on legs that is unexplained. Thrombophilia means that your blood has an increased tendency to clot. Once the mixture is cool, tighten the lid and place into the fridge until needed. It can be used as part of an ointment like the one described below. These unexplained bruises can be the result of many factors ranging from the simple effects of aging to the warning signs of disease. Usually it is from unnoticed trauma or accidents. Cardiovascular health: Insomnia linked to greater risk of heart attack. She is an assistant clinical professor of family medicine at Quinnipiac University and works in private practice in Hartford, Connecticut. But first, we need to look at the different types of bruises and what causes them. Bruises typically turn yellow or green roughly five to 10 days after your injury and do so because the body produces specific compounds to break down the blood that has gathered in the area. MedicineNet. Why do women bruise more easily than men? Read our. (n.d.). Bruising often occurs when blood vessels beneath the skin incur. Stratakis CA. The RICE method for getting rid of a bruise is:11. For example, a person should see a doctor if: Occasional bruising is rarely a cause for concern. Bleeding Disorders, American Society of Hematology; http://www.hematology.org/Patients/Bleeding.aspx, last accessed August 28, 2017. Paediatr Child Health. We avoid using tertiary references. These conditions require proper diagnosis and treatment. a rash that looks like small bruises or reddish-purple spots (this may be less obvious on brown or black skin) joint pain; tummy (abdominal) pain; diarrhoea; being sick; blood in urine or poo; Henoch-Schnlein purpura is not usually serious and often gets better without treatment. Bleeding and bruising. Unexplained bruising on your legs is one of the signs of advanced diabetes. Eden, R. E., & Coviello, J. M. (2020). It also eliminates harmful free radicals that can lead to tissue degeneration and random bruising. Older adults often experience random bruising as part of the natural aging process. Vitamin K is needed to help blood clot properly and prevent random bruising. Learn about breathing exercises for stress. If you develop a blood clot, your doctor will probably test you for thrombophilia and may put you on blood thinners (anticoagulants). This is a type of cancer that affects your blood as well as your bone marrow. In some cases, random bruising may be associated with one of the following less common causes. This occurs in 4.4% to 11.6% of pregnancies. Von Willebrand disease. People who have cancer often experience excessive bleeding and bruising. Hemophilia is a genetic condition wherein people lack either clotting factor VIII or IX, resulting in excessive bruising. Several medicines are also associated with spontaneo Dr. Gurmukh Singh and another doctor agree. Bruising (Hematoma), Chemocare; http://chemocare.com/chemotherapy/side-effects/bruising.aspx, last accessed August 28, 2017. Bruise colors: Causes, timescale, and when to see a doctor Diseases like cancer and diabetes, as well as other medical conditions, become more prevalent as we get older. If it doesn't resolve on it's own, see your family doctor. The presentation of a fussy infant with bruising: late-onset vitamin K deficiency bleeding. Other symptoms of iron deficiency include: Although rare in healthy adults, vitamin K deficiencies can slow the rate at which blood clots. Diabetes is a metabolic condition that affects your bodys ability to produce or use insulin. Tannins can help contract the blood vessels which in turn can help heal a bruise quicker. Bruises look like big purple spots with clear edges, and you're younger than 65. This is because women have more fragile blood vessels and may bruise more easily on their legs, upper arms, or buttocks. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. Blood platelets are specific cells that exist within the blood. Other common symptoms of a bleeding disorder include: Sepsis is an infection that causes a buildup of toxins in the blood or tissues. Some people also bruise more easily than others and a seemingly insignificant knock may leave a black and blue dark patch on their skin. Native to Europe and Asia, comfrey is a type of shrub that contains allantoin, a chemical that helps skin cells grow and can help speed up the healing process. The bruise doesnt heal within two weeks. I have a bruise on the bottom left side of my stomach. Other medications can cause excess capillary fragility and decreased platelets, all of which can lead to unexplained bruising. Easy bruising: Why does it happen? what would cause this? Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are a group of hereditary health conditions that negatively affect the function and structure of connective tissues such as the skin, joints, and walls of the blood vessels. Vora, A., & Makris, M. (2001). I've noticed 3 bruises on my stomach for no apparent reason approx. WebMD. Someone with von Willebrand disease might notice large or lumpy bruises from minor, even unnoticeable, injuries. According to the NHS website and WebMD, you should see your doctor if you have unexplained bruising along with any of the following symptoms:23, 24. Bruises that are caused by underlying health conditions are addressed by treating the specific condition or disease. The red coloring is due to the fresh blood near the surface of the skin. Bruises are common and usually disappear with time. There may be a blood clotting issue or another underlying condition that needs treatment. Bruises. A bruise usually starts off as a black and blue patch of skin and gradually turns green or yellow as it heals.1, You may find that the bruises on your body are painful at first but they may start to itch as they heal. And yes, getting older also means that we will be a little more prone to injury. Dyer JM, Miller RA. The ultra violet rays of the sun can lead to bruises under the skin. How to tell if it is a bruise or a blood clot, How to get rid of a bruise: Home remedies, bruising occurs for no apparent reason and does not heal within a few weeks, bruises appear in unusual locations, such as the torso, back, or face, there are a number of bruises in one specific area, or a cluster scattered on different parts of the body, bruising appears with other symptoms, such as fatigue, nausea, or a high temperature. Other common causes of blood spots include low blood platelets, blood clotting disorders, inflammation in the blood vessels, and vitamin C deficiency. 2-3 weeks apart. The skin is also thin, fragile, and easily damaged. A bruise is a haematoma that forms due to bleeding under intact skin into subcutaneous tissue, caused by vascular damage or injury. Chest pain, sudden loss of vision or speech, and severe stomach pain need immediate medical attention. Is Diabetes and Unexplained Bruising Connected? Vitamins perform many important functions in your blood. Thrombocytopenia in pregnancy. Its very rare to have spontaneous bruising without any reason. Physical symptoms can cause depression and anxiety, and these can in turn make the physical symptoms worse, creatinga vicious circle. You should also speak to a GP if you have any unexplained bleeding, such as: blood in your urine vaginal bleeding between periods vaginal bleeding a year or more after the menopause ( postmenopausal bleeding) bleeding from your bottom blood when you cough blood in your vomit Lumps There are a few autoimmune diseases that can, in some way, make it easier for the body to bruise. Skin manifestations of Cushing's syndrome. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. The bumps usually heal on their own within 3 to 8 weeks without leaving a scar. Regular exercisewill help keep you fit andmany people find that it also boosts their mood(read about exercise for depression). 2018;11(1):13-18. In many cases, random bruising doesnt require any treatment at all and will heal on its own. Search. It should get better within 2 to 3 weeks. However, it should not appear in isolation and may appear alongside fatigue, appetite loss, abdominal pain, and nausea. The lump could be a hematoma which is a lump of coagulated blood. This bleeding disorder is a lifelong condition. An approach to investigation of easy bruising. Bruise symptoms and signs. If a bruise lasts well past the four-week mark, its a good idea to seek medical advice as it may be a sign of one of the conditions mentioned. You just have to figure it out- blood thinners, trauma some more severe problems with coagulation. If your bruising is tied to medication overuse, you may also experience: gas bloating stomach pain heartburn nausea vomiting diarrhea constipation If you suspect that your bruising is a. Is the ketogenic diet right for autoimmune conditions? Thereare things you can do to improve or even relieve some physical symptoms,such as taking regular exercise and managing stress. Gardner-Diamond syndrome is a condition wherein painful and unexpected bruising occurs, mainly on the arms, legs, or face. This is called dermatoporosis. much larger than a dime. American Society of Hematology. Finally, the hemoglobin will break down and release a chemical called bilirubin, which will cause the bruise to turn yellow. As a result, hemophilia sufferers bleed longer and bruise easier. NCJRS. People that are active should take special precautions while participating in physical activities to prevent injuries that could lead to bruises. There are several nutrient deficiencies associated with easy or random bruising, including: Although vitamin deficiencies can lead to random bruising across the entire body, one case report found the bruising to be localized to the legs. Thats because your body needs iron to keep your blood cells healthy. This can help speed up the healing process. Internal Bruising: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment - Healthline The area tends to be swollen and painful. If you havent already received a diabetes diagnosis, look for other symptoms such as: See a doctor or other healthcare provider if youre experiencing one or more of these symptoms alongside bruising. So, if the bruise is still there well after four weeks, its recommended that you seek medical attention. (2017). trom the flu, they shold not be bruised. People who have hemophilia B are missing a clotting factor called factor IX. Educational text answers on HealthTap are not intended for individual diagnosis, treatment or prescription. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. For example, cirrhosis is the result of continuous long-term damage, and bruising easily is a symptom. For the most part, bruises will eventually heal on their own. However, if a bruise persists, changes in size, or looks unusual, there may be an underlying condition or other factors. There are two types of bruises that you should be aware ofecchymosis and hematoma. People with ITP may develop bruises for no apparent reason. Bruising | Health topics A to Z | CKS | NICE This can damage blood vessels and causes blood to pool below the surface of the skin, leaving behind black, blue, purple, brown, green, or yellow marks. This can cause blood vessels to burst and leak blood into the surrounding area. If you suffer from diabetes, you may notice that you bruise easily and bruises last longer. Vitamin deficiencies of various sorts can lead to unexplained bruises. They create and support wound healing. She has been educated in both psychology and journalism, and her dual education has given her the research and writing skills needed to deliver sound and engaging content in the health space. People who have cancers in parts of the body responsible for blood production, like the liver, may also experience unusual clotting. Medications can also hinder the blood clotting process and inhibit platelet function. The syndrome causes easy bruising because it can lead to thinning skin. Bruises range in size, shape and color depending on the type of bruise, cause and location. Vitamin K cream or ointment may also be able to help in healing a bruise quicker. A hematoma tends to be the result of a greater trauma than ecchymosis. Angelica Bottaro is a writer with expertise in many facets of health including chronic disease, Lyme disease, nutrition as medicine, and supplementation. Erickson, F. (2014). There are many natural home remedies you can use to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and help bruises heal faster. Unexplained Bruising on Legs: What You Need to Know - Healthline (2017). Thrombocytopenia is a condition that affects blood clotting and can be caused by chickenpox, rubella, and mumps. Hills, J., How to Get Rid of Bruises Naturally (According to Research), Healthy and Natural World; http://www.healthyandnaturalworld.com/get-rid-of-bruises/, last accessed August 28, 2017. The tricky part is knowing which. Although the specific protein involved in this disorder is different than the one associated with hemophilia A, the conditions share the same symptoms. Am Fam Physician. This can result in random bruising or larger bruises from trauma to the skin.3. The condition can lead to bruising that lasts longer than normal because of the way it affects wound healing. Some other symptoms include fever, a stiff neck, vomiting, and headaches. Our gait becomes more unstable, and we bump into things a little more than we used to. Bruises, also referred to as contusions, occur when there is an injury to tissues underneath the skin. Anticoagulants used for dialysis, as well as the anemia caused by kidney disease, can cause low platelet production. Symptoms can occur at any age, but most severe cases tend to occur during childhood. According to Dr. Debra Jaliman on WebMD, vigorous exercise like lifting weights or intensive training can cause tiny tears in blood vessels under the skin.10. Add the olive oil to a pan and drop in the comfrey leaves. Discuss with your doctor, you need some blood test Spontaneous signs of bruising(ecchymoses) can occur after taking aspirin or Aleve (naproxen) or with certain blood or liver disorders. Case study and clinical findings]. Iron deficiency anemia. Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone. An unexplained bruise on the breast that doesnt disappear may be one of the first signs of inflammatory breast cancer. Side effects: Anticoagulant medicines. Without treatment, these may increase in size, join together, and form larger bruises. Unexplained Bruising: 11 Causes, Diabetes Connection & Life-Cycle of a For these, please consult a doctor (virtually or in person). NHS. Researchers are expressing concerns over the number of bicycle accidents involving drugs. Pelvic fractures are typically the result of high impact injuries. Medications like aspirin, blood thinners, antibiotics, and anticoagulants can affect the blood cells by making them easier to traumatize, leading to bruising. Bruising usually occurs as a result of accidental trauma, but may be non-accidental. Random or unexplained bruising on legs can happen for a number of reasons. Vasculitis - NHS Now, youve read about what causes bruises, so it may seem a little odd that a bruise should suddenly form on its own. Although in rare cases random bruising can be a sign of a serious condition, the bruising will be accompanied by many other symptoms. Always mention any unusual bruising during pregnancy to a doctor or midwife. Yes: Yes, it is possible, but should not happen. Leukaemia and myeloma happen when there are too many abnormal cells in the blood and bone marrow (where blood cells are made). MayoClinic. doi:10.1097/PEC.0000000000001083. Women tend to bruise more easily than men. Bad bruises, also known as hematomas, can occur following a more serious injury. Kawasaki disease For example, being in the sun too long, aging, or a vitamin deficiency can weaken small blood vessels near the skins surface. According to Dr. Melinda Ratini on WebMD, peripheral vascular disease commonly affects the legs.12 The journal Physical Therapy says that a complication of diabetes is bruising or injuries that dont heal.13. There are a few natural and quick ways to help the bruise disappear a bit faster than normal. 2017;22(7):365-366. doi:10.1093/pch/pxx139, Wolpert K, Szadkowski M, Miescier M, Hewes HA. Its just a part of being a human being. Many people find that they have unexplained bruising on legs and want to know what causes bruises to appear for no apparent reason. Blood cancer symptoms and signs | Blood Cancer UK WebMD. Treating pain with hot and cold can be extremely effective for a number of different conditions and injuries. Possible causes of medically unexplained symptoms This accounts for around 75% of all cases of thrombocytopenia in pregnancy. When this happens, blood leaks out of the vessels and initially appears as a dark mark. Another method of treating an unexpected bruise is using essential oils. They may prescribe iron tablets or other medication as well as help you modify your diet to meet your nutritional needs. Sjukratilfelli og sjukdomseinkenni [Ehlers-Danlos syndrome type IV. If a person has non-hodgkins lymphoma, especially in their bone marrow, it can reduce blood cell count and blood platelet count leading to clotting issues and random bruising. Unexplained bruising can be the result of numerous causes from aging and vitamin deficiencies to diabetes. Start with an ice pack wrapped in a towel (not directly on the skin). According to Dr. Neha Pathak on WebMD, some common viral infections that can cause unexplained bruising are chickenpox, mumps, and rubella. As a result, there is less body material to cushion a blow, so the body gets bruised easily. Bruises and blood spots under your skin. Bleeding and bruising (thrombocytopenia) and cancer treatment. Intensive exercising can cause unexplained bruises in the parts of your body under stress. However, random, sporadic bruising may be a symptom of something less obvious, especially if there are other symptoms. Bruises (Ecchymosis): Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention Although random or sudden bruising does not necessarily mean that a person has a medical condition, it may still be worth discussing with a doctor. Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. Read on to learn more about common causes, what to watch for, and when to see a doctor. Bruising: Summary. Our blood naturally clots to prevent excessive bleeding related to an injury. Other symptoms may include weight loss . Peripheral vascular disease or PVD is a disorder that can cause the blood vessels outside of your heart and brain to narrow, block, or spasm. Tea bags, specifically black tea bags, can help heal a bruise faster. Sporadic bruising usually isnt cause for worry. For example, hemophilia and Willebrand disease affect the bloods ability to clot and can cause bleeding and excessive bruising resulting in black or dark skin patches. Causes | Background information | Bruising | CKS | NICE Why do I bruise do easily? According to doctors from the Mayo Clinic, aspirin, some antibiotics, and anticoagulant medications can cause clotting problems. Easy bruising: Why does it happen? - Mayo Clinic Bruising or bleeding that is unexplained Lumps or swellings Shortness of breath (breathlessness) Drenching night sweats Infections that are persistent, recurrent or severe Fever (38C or above) that is unexplained Rash or itchy skin that is unexplained Pain in your bones, joints or abdomen (stomach area) Bruising of Legs: Causes, Remedies, and Prevention, Bruised Elbow (Elbow Contusion) Symptoms and Treatment Tips. This can result in bruising easily on your legs or other areas of your body. Achilles Tendon Rupture: Symptoms to Look For, Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI, Ruptured Spleen: Symptoms and Treatment in Adults and Children, Drug-Related Bicycle Accidents Drawing Concerns, a crawling or tingling feeling in your legs, cravings to eat things that are not food, such as ice, dirt, or clay, excessive bleeding from punctures or wounds, tingling, pain, or numbness in the hands or feet, severe bleeding after injuries, dental work, or surgeries, nosebleeds that last longer than 10 minutes, a cough, difficulty swallowing, or breathlessness (if the lymphoma is in the chest area), indigestion, stomach pain, or weight loss (if the lymphoma is in the stomach or bowel), excessive bleeding after injury, surgery, or childbirth, purple stretch marks on the breasts, arms, abdomen, and thighs, fatty tissue deposits in the face and upper back, a bruise that increases in size over time, a bruise that doesnt change within two weeks, severe night sweats (that soak through your clothes), unusually heavy periods or large blood clots in menstrual flow. The result of extreme vitamin C deficiency is scurvy, which also leads to bleeding gums, fingernail and tooth loss, and heart failure. You have severe pain in the bruised part of your body. Learn how we can help 1.8k views Answered >2 years ago Thank 3 thanks A 18-year-old female asked: If your blood cells arent healthy, your body wont be able to get the oxygen that it needs to function. Benabio J. There are a number of things you can do yourself that may help. If your skin shows signs of a sunburn, like reddened skin, skin tender to touch, and blisters, you can get relief from sunburn using natural remedies like aloe vera, honey, witch hazel, or oatmeal. On top of genetics, aging can be a factor of unexplained bruising. Random bruising could be a sign of a health issue that should be checked out. Certain medications and supplements can cause the blood to thin and result in random bruising on the body. For example, vitamin C is used by the body to strengthen blood vessels. Lupus is a chronic inflammatory disease where the bodys immune system attacks its own tissues and organs. If you are able to, you can also keep the bruise elevated above the heart to prevent further blood pooling. This can cause the bruise to take on a green color or tinge. Non-Hodgkins lymphoma is a cancer that starts in lymphocyte cells, which are part of the immune system. Mayo Clinic Staff. Bleeding under the skin may also present as pinprick-sized red or purple dots that resemble a rash. Underlying bleeding disorders such as hemophilia, thrombocytopenia, or factor V deficiency can cause bruising. Aging also leads to easier bruising. After 24 hours have passed, try using a heat pack to get the circulation flowing and relax the muscle area around the bruise. Is my bruising normal? Find out more about Henoch-Schnlein purpura. Spontaneous bruising is very common after 45-50 years of age and also depends upon the skin type. Angelica Bottaro is a professional freelance writer with over 5 years of experience. But, there are a couple of essential oils that work particularly well with bruises. I have a bruise on the lower left side of my stomach near my belly button. Be aware that certain clotting disorders may be a factor. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Whenever this blood gets trapped under the surface of the skin, it will form a bruise. Without enough platelets, your blood clots more slowly than normal. Random bruising caused by diabetes occurs when the condition affects the blood vessels and causes peripheral vascular disease. Mayo Clinic Staff. Understanding Bone Bruise or Marrow Edema. Yourbody has a remarkable ability to recover and there's a good chance that your symptoms will improve in time, even without any specific treatment. Older people tend to bruise easily because of changes to their skin as they age. DOI:10.1055/s-2002-23205, last accessed August 2017. A few bruises rarely indicates a problem. Sex can also affect bruising as women tend to bruise more easily than men. Page last reviewed: 12 July 2021 In adults with unexplained bruising, bleeding, petechiae, or hepatosplenomegaly consider arranging: A very urgent full blood count including platelet count (within 48 hours) and blood film. The first is that the disease itself may cause the bruise. Certain health conditions, medications, and even inherited disorders can cause random bruising. Whats Causing Broken Blood Vessels on My Face? Bruising: How should I investigate a person with bruising? You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. (2017). For potential or actual medical emergencies, immediately call 911 or your local emergency service. Other symptoms of vitamin K deficiency include: If you suspect that your bruising is a result of deficiency, see a healthcare provider. Cancer - Signs and symptoms - NHS If it persists, see your doctor! Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Phys Ther. It is a rare condition that mostly affects males. This can help reduce the swelling as well as the coloring of the bruise. For the most part, a bruise will heal on its own within two to four weeks. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This may result in blood leaking from vessels and accumulating under the skin. Knowing the reason for the appearance of mysterious bruises can help to prevent them in the future.