Bruises are a common occurrence, and we all get them from time to time. They can be caused by a number of things, such as bumps, falls, or even just everyday activities.

However, what you might not know is that bruises can actually be a message from your body about your well-being. In this article, we’ll take a look at what your bruises might be telling you, and what you can do about them.

What Are Bruises?

A bruise, also called a contusion, occurs when small blood vessels underneath the skin are damaged or broken.

When this happens, blood leaks out of the vessels and into the surrounding tissues, causing a black-and-blue or purple-colored mark on the skin. Initially, a bruise may look red or pink, and then it may turn blue or dark purple within a few hours. Over the course of a few days, it will usually turn green, then yellow, and finally brown as it heals.

What Causes Bruises?

There are many things that can cause bruises. Some of the most common include:.

Bumping into something
Falling
A sports injury
Being hit or punched
Taking blood-thinning medication, such as aspirin or warfarin
Hematological disorders, such as thrombocytopenia or hemophilia
A vitamin deficiency, such as a lack of iron or vitamin C

What Your Bruises Are Telling You:

While most bruises are harmless and will go away on their own within a few days to a week, there are times when a bruise might be a sign of something more serious. Here are some things that your bruises might be telling you:.

You’re Not Getting Enough Vitamin C:

If you bruise easily, it could be a sign that you’re not getting enough vitamin C in your diet. This important nutrient is needed for the production of collagen, which is essential for healthy skin, blood vessels, and bones.

Without enough vitamin C, your blood vessels can become weak and leaky, which can lead to bruising. To increase your vitamin C intake, try eating more citrus fruits, kiwi, bell peppers, or taking a vitamin C supplement.

You Might Be Anemic:

Anemia is a condition in which your body doesn’t have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to your cells and tissues. This can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and dizziness, as well as a pale complexion and frequent bruising.

Anemia can be caused by a variety of factors, including a lack of iron in your diet, chronic bleeding, or certain medical conditions. If you think you might be anemic, talk to your doctor about getting a blood test.

You Have A Blood Disorder:

In some cases, frequent bruising can be a sign of a blood disorder, such as thrombocytopenia or hemophilia. These disorders prevent your blood from clotting properly, which can lead to excessive bleeding and bruising.

If you have unexplained or frequent bruising, along with other symptoms such as nosebleeds or bleeding gums, you should talk to your doctor about the possibility of a blood disorder.

You Need to Be Gentler with Your Skin:

Sometimes, bruising may simply be a sign that you’re being too rough with your skin. If you notice that you’re bruising frequently in a certain area of your body, such as your arms or legs, try to be more gentle when handling those tissues.

This could mean avoiding activities that strain those muscles, wearing protective gear when playing sports, or using a softer touch when shaving or massaging the area.

You’re on Blood Thinners:

If you take blood-thinning medications, such as aspirin or warfarin, you may be more prone to bruising. These medications help to prevent blood clots, but they can also make your blood vessels more fragile and susceptible to damage.

If you’re on blood thinners and you notice that you’re bruising easily or more frequently, talk to your doctor about how to manage your medication more effectively.

What Can You Do About Bruises?

If you’ve got a bruise, there are things you can do to help it heal more quickly. Here are a few tips:.

Apply ice: As soon as you notice a bruise starting to form, apply a cold pack or ice wrapped in a towel to the area. This will help to reduce swelling and pain.
Elevate the affected area: If the bruise is on your leg or arm, raising it above your heart can help to reduce swelling and promote healing.
Take anti-inflammatory medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with bruises.
Wait it out: Most bruises will heal on their own within a week or two, so sometimes the best thing you can do is just be patient and let your body do its thing.

The Bottom Line:

While bruises are usually not serious, they can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health issue.

By paying attention to your bruises and listening to what your body is telling you, you can better understand your overall well-being and take steps to improve it.