Often caused by a blunt instrument, bump, knock or fall, bruises are not usually dangerous and they normally look much worse than they actually feel! The reason that bruises go a purple-like color is because the capillaries in the area that has been knocked get damaged and blood seeps into the tissue around it.
There are 5 stages of bruising. A fresh bruise is usually a deep purple color, then after a day or two it will turn blue. The bruise will then turn brown, then green, then yellow and finally back to the normal skin color as it heals.
What might bruise one person may not necessarily bruise another. It all depends on their tissue and whether the muscles are relaxed or taught underneath the skin. Sometimes, bruising can be more serious and if you find that you keep getting bruises with no explanation as to how they happened, you should see your doctor. Similarly, if a bruise does not heal within a couple of weeks or if it's accompanied by severe pain, blurred vision, vomiting or dizziness, it's time to consult a doctor.
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Eat foods high in bioflavonoids. A bioflavonoid’s primary job is to help maintain the capillaries; keeping them strong. Bioflavonoids are also anti-inflammatory. Lemons, green peppers, broccoli and rose hips are good sources and for the best absorption into the body, take alongside a Vitamin C supplement.
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Apply Arnileve Arnica Cream gently to the bruised area, avoiding any broken skin. Arnica has long been valued as a remedy for bruises and sprains as it has great anti-inflammatory properties. (Always read the labels of products.)
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Cabbage has been used for traditional medicinal purposes, as well as for cooking due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
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Raise the bruised area if possible as this will reduce blood flow to the bruised area.
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Wrap a bag of ice (or frozen peas) in a cloth and gently place over the affected area (note: keep removing it at regular intervals to avoid damaging the skin).
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Avoid activities that might increase swelling such as taking hot showers, using hot tubs, hot packs, and drinking alcohol. During the first 48 hours, these things may actually increase bruising and swelling.
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Do not use aspirin as a form of pain relief since it may prolong bleeding into or under the tissue.
Multiple, unexplained bruises should be evaluated by a doctor – especially on children who are not yet mobile.
Bumps and knocks are a natural part of growing up and will probably be a frequent occurrence for children as they become independently mobile. In fact, it has been said that adventurous children who risk minor injury in early years teach themselves valuable lifelong lessons that help them to avoid serious injuries in later life! In children, the skin is the most commonly injured part of the body, and bruising is the most common form of skin-related injury.
Here are a few extra tips for parents looking to treat their children’s bumps and knocks:
Falls are the most common type of accident suffered by the over 65’s and an estimated 30% of older people in the community will fall every year. Bruises occur more frequently in older people because their skin becomes thinner with age and the tissues that support the underlying blood vessels become more fragile. Here are some tips to follow if you’re over 65 and take a tumble.
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Try to keep yourself calm and try not to panic.
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The bruised area should be raised if possible and supported in a comfortable position.
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Put something cold on the bruised area, such as a bag of peas wrapped in a tea towel.
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Apply Arnileve Arnica Cream liberally to the affected area in order to reduce inflammation and hasten recovery time. (Always read the label.)
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Keep your diet rich in fruit and vegetables, or taking a vitamin C supplement will help prevent bruising.
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To avoid future falls, start exercising! Physical activity is indicated to prevent falls as well as having a number of other ailments such as heart disease, muscular tension, joint pain and osteoporosis. It also heightens alertness, increases self confidence and alleviates depression. It’s never too late to start!
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