However, if the discoloration does not heal within a few weeks, it is worth talking to a doctor. Make your tax-deductible gift and be a part of the cutting-edge research and care that's changing medicine. Whenever this blood gets trapped under the surface of the skin, it will form a bruise. Headaches come in lots of varieties, and some are easily recognizable. If you've been a sun worshipper all your life, you may notice your skin bruises more easily. We avoid using tertiary references. Cushing syndrome causes the skin to thin, resulting in easy bruising. Why Do I Bruise So Easily? - WebMD But it could also be a harmless This includes the joints, skin, and blood vessel walls. Many blood-thinning medications can cause such a condition: These blood-thinning medications can cause sudden easy bruising during their first use or when the dose is changed. Last medically reviewed on December 7, 2021. You don't recall bumping into anything, but lately you seem to be bruising frequently. Healthcare professionals are required by law to ask you questions to make sure youre safe in your domestic situation. A person with kidney disease bruises easily due to a loss of skin elasticity. Bruising easily can have a wide range of possible underlying causes, including blood-clotting problems or a blood disease. But it could also be a harmless condition. The best course of action is to see your doctor and have your situation evaluated. William Nichols, M.D., Hematology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. #bruising. What causes me to bruise easily all of a sudden? 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. "When a blood vessel gets damaged, the body starts a response to try to rapidly repair it like plugging a leaky pipe. Mayo Clinic Staff. Easy bruising can cause large bruises in multiple areas of the body, often at the same time. One method is to take extra care as you age. A symptom of taking a medication (like anticoagulants, antiplatelet medicine, aspirin or steroids). Hemophilia A is a genetic condition that affects the bloods ability to clot. Another indication of possible leukemia is lots of bruises with no indication as to a cause. Selective Serotonin Reuptake inhibitors such as fluoxetine (Prozac), Citalopram (Cipramil), and others. Noble, J. M., & Patterson, M. C. (2020). Also, always make sure your doctor or healthcare professional knows about any herbs or supplements youre taking as this could affect your bloods ability to clot, especially if your doctor prescribes blood-thinner or steroid medications for you. Your skin may appear red, purple, blue or black. Swelling or a raised bump on your skin (hematoma). Regular aspirin use (say, if you're taking it daily to reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke) can lead to more bruising for reasons similar to blood thinners, cautions Dr. Vyas. The most common cause is aging or the side effect of medications such People who have hemophilia A are missing an important clotting factor, factor VIII, resulting in excessive bleeding and bruising. It happens to everyone. Management typically involves psychiatric treatment. All rights reserved. Mayo Clinic offers appointments in Arizona, Florida and Minnesota and at Mayo Clinic Health System locations. This allows enough blood to leak out under the skin to cause a bruise. information submitted for this request. However, if a bruise persists, changes in size, or looks unusual, there may be an underlying condition or other factors. Accessed March 14, 2022. Easy bruising. See your health care provider if you: Have You might also get bruises more often if you have issues with your platelets or those cells involved in the blood vessel healing process. The skin is also thin, fragile, and easily damaged. WebSudden unexplained bruising or blood spots under the skin or a sudden increase in the frequency of bruising may be caused by: A medicine, such as aspirin or blood thinners ( anticoagulants ). More severe bruising and hematomas may last a month or longer. People who have cancer often experience excessive bleeding and bruising. About 7% of US citizens are deficient in vitamin C (reference). Certain medications make you more susceptible to bruising. Blood vessels are tubes that carry blood throughout your body. Medications that thin your blood to prevent dangerous blood clots are a common cause of easy bruising. There are several ways that your blood vessels could break, including: You and your healthcare provider can identify a bruise by your symptoms, especially the look and color of the mark on your skin. Medications that are known to reduce your bloods ability to clot include the following: If you notice that you have increased bruising, do not stop taking your medications. Find out what role aging plays and when to consult a health care provider. A tension headache usually feels like a tight band squeezing around your noggin. Approach to the patient with bleeding and thrombosis. If you arent getting enough vitamin C, your skin may begin to bruise easily, resulting in random bruising. Call your childs healthcare professional if your child experiences frequent, unexplained bruises along with: In most cases, bruises go away on their own without care. A Zumba class or 30 minutes on the treadmill aren't likely to cause a problem, but weightlifting or running a marathon can do it. Senile purpura. This may be caused by: A medicine, such as aspirin or blood thinners ( anticoagulants ). AIcohoI-induced bone marrow suppression leads to easy bruising all of a sudden when the platelets drop below a certain number. Applying ice soon after an injury can minimize bruising. This is because they lower the amount of platelets in the blood. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Problems with two major organs your liver and kidneys can cause blood abnormalities. "[Capillaries] can be weak because there's not enough protein to hold them in place or because of problems in the layers of the vessels," she says. (2017). Corticosteroids are one of the first options, with a response rate of 60% within two weeks of treatment. If you suddenly get easy bruising, review any recent medications and even the list of your chronic medication. Bruising and bleeding are some of the common symptoms of leukemia. Eventually the body reabsorbs the blood, and the mark disappears. National Institute on Aging. The exact causes are unknown, and it tends to resolve on its own. Many large or deep bruises. When blood isnt clotting like it should, bleeding can be heavier or longer than normal. Most of us get bruises from bumping into objects from time to time. (2009). Some antibiotics and antidepressants also might be associated with clotting problems. The resulting discoloration from the bleeding is a bruise. Tell your health care provider or pharmacist if a medication makes you dizzy or sleepy. Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID-19, plus expertise on managing health. Symptoms of anemia can be severe fatigue, dizziness, or shortness of breath, so watch out for these and see a doctor to get your iron levels tested if you think something's up. Benabio J. Broken blood vessels on the face can happen to anyone at any age. People with sepsis often develop a cluster of tiny blood spots, resembling pinpricks in the skin (petechiae) or purple areas (purpura). Should I look out for signs of complications? Eden, R. E., & Coviello, J. M. (2020). Liver disease can When blood doesnt clot quickly, more of it pools beneath the skin and forms a bruise. Wrap the ice pack in a towel and apply ice for no more than 15 minutes at a time. ", National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: "Cirrhosis. A fibrinogen activity test is used to determine the level of fibrinogen in your blood. Other causes can include vitamin deficiencies, a low platelet count, and some chronic conditions. Bruises usually arent a cause for concern. Thats because your body needs iron to keep your blood cells healthy. Bruising in leukaemia VS ordinary bruising. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/fall-proofing-your-home. This is typically due to being active, playing sports, or moving quickly. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. Accessed March 14, 2022. Know the symptoms and what to do if you experience them. Causes of easy bruising include medications, supplements, diseases of the blood, and other conditions that affect blood clotting. Having a condition or receiving treatment that affects your blood platelet count (such as. Bruising In Children To avoid bruises, crack down on clutter at home and always wear protective gear when you exercise or play sports. Why do I bruise more easily as I age? Cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and targeted therapy, may also lead to bruising. ", University of Maryland Medical Center: "Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid).". Disseminated intravascular coagulation is a rare, life threatening condition. This can cause bleeding within the skin tissue. That's because over time, the sun slowly weakens your skin and the tiny blood vessels underneath it. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Fortunately, Sudden bruising due to medication is self-limiting after the stoppage of the offending drug. Vora, A., & Makris, M. (2001). General Practice 11 years experience. Anticoagulant activity of select dietary supplements. This bleeding disorder is a lifelong condition. Ecchymosis is the medical term for bruises. How Viagra became a new 'tool' for young men, Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0019483216300074, https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/bernard-soulier-syndrome, https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/side-effects/bleeding-bruising, https://www.leukaemiacare.org.uk/support-and-information/latest-from-leukaemia-care/blog/spotting-the-difference-bruising-in-leukaemia-vs-ordinary-bruising/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI6dC6woaY6gIV0u7tCh1REQm5EAAYASAAEgLGyPD_BwE, https://ashpublications.org/blood/article/130/21/2271/36666/Thrombocytopenia-in-pregnancy, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5394486/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK536983/, https://online.nursing.georgetown.edu/the-forensic-science-behind-bruise-healing-infographic/, https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/factor-v-deficiency, https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/6481/gardner-diamond-syndrome, https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/immune-thrombocytopenia, https://bestpractice.bmj.com/topics/en-gb/632, https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/prednisolone/, https://www.gosh.nhs.uk/conditions-and-treatments/conditions-we-treat/septicaemia, https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/are-you-taking-too-much-anti-inflammatory-medication-2018040213540, https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/anticoagulants/side-effects/, https://liverfoundation.org/for-patients/about-the-liver/the-progression-of-liver-disease/, https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/septicemia, https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/vwd/facts.html, https://aakp.org/whats-causing-me-to-bruise-so-easily-and-what-i-do-to-prevent-it/, New clues to slow aging? WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. For example, cirrhosis is the result of continuous long-term damage, and bruising easily is a symptom. Nosebleeds without a known cause. They can make a diagnosis, if needed, and advise you on next steps. This causes blood to seep out of your blood vessel and pool underneath your skin, as there isnt an opening (wound) for your blood to get out of your body. Repeat throughout the day. Bruising Easily: Causes, Treatment, When to Get Care Wong C-Z, et al. The following are some possible causes of random bruising. Dr. Michael Sparacino answered. These bruises can get larger, turning your skin purple. On rare occasions, you can also get a bruise from your immune system attacking blood vessels and if your blood vessel is too fragile, it can be extra prone to leaking blood, says Dr. Elliott. Pain, swelling or tightness in your joints. Bruises and blood spots under the skin. The Causes of Bruising Easily: Anemia, Vitamin Deficiency, Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. (2016). Most often, a ruptured spleen is caused by blunt force trauma. Humans cannot form Vitamin C, So they must obtain it through food. If diabetes has already been diagnosed, your bruising may simply be a result of slow wound healing. The Causes of Bruising Easily: Anemia, Vitamin Deficiency, Easy Bruising: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment - Verywell Health UW Health. Watch where youre walking. Its also important to be aware that unexplained bruising may be a sign of domestic violence or assault. FYI, people with heavy periods and those who are pregnant or breastfeeding are more prone to an iron deficiency, according to the American Society of Hematology. Pain or tenderness (sore feeling) when you touch the bruise. "Any problems with the liver can mess with proteins necessary for clotting," says Dr. Vyas. What's causing me to bruise so easily and what I do to prevent it? However, if you bruise easily, even a minor bump can result in a substantial bruise. (2015). This may make your skin more susceptible to bruising. Learn more here. Without enough platelets, your blood clots more slowly than normal. Elevation (raise your arms or legs above your heart). These are rare, but they can be life-threatening if you don't treat them. Diabetes is a metabolic condition that affects your bodys ability to Bruises develop when capillaries burst after an impact, while blood clots occur when an injury damages blood vessels. There are several types of bleeding that cause skin discoloration, including: Bruises are very common and will affect everyone at some point in their life. Keeping an eye out for other unusual symptoms may help you determine if theres an underlying cause. It's totally normal to knock into something without remembering the impact again, trauma is the most common cause of a bruise but think about how often it's happening to you or how severe the bruises look. Aside from a physical exam to look at any bruises, your healthcare provider will likely ask you questions about your family medical history. A ruptured spleen can be a life threatening condition and requires immediate attention. They usually heal without treatment, but home remedies for bruises may be, Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. Bruising (ecchymosis) happens when small blood vessels (capillaries) break under your skin. Mayo Clinic Minute: Why vaccines are especially important for older people. And when you do get to the doc, you should get a full check of your overall health, including family history and health history, and then check your blood work and platelets, recommends Dr. Vyas. But sometimes you spot a bruise and you can't figure out how you got it. 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195 |, Important Updates + Notice of Vendor Data Event, (https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0215/p279-s1.html), (https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/black-eye), (https://www.aocd.org/page/BruisingHandsAndArms), (https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/blood-disorders/blood-clotting-process/bruising-and-bleeding), (https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003235.htm), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Accessed March 14, 2022. It is impossible to completely prevent bruising. Sudden onset of easy bruising is more common with the adult type (on minor trauma or spontaneously). You should see your healthcare provider if you seem to bruise easily or have unexplained bruising. This will allow him/her to examine you, ask specific questions. Bruising Easily Anemia The term anemia refers to a condition whereby your blood has too small a number of healthy red blood cells. Yet another tender bruise. Coming to a Cleveland Clinic location?Hillcrest Cancer Center check-in changesCole Eye entrance closingVisitation and COVID-19 information, Notice of Intelligent Business Solutions data eventLearn more. If you experience frequent or unexplained bruising, your provider may order tests to rule out possible causes. Some supplements, like fish oil and ginkgo, can do it too. However, it should not appear in isolation and may appear Elsevier; 2018. https://www.clinicalkey.com. If youre undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatments, you may have low blood platelet counts (thrombocytopenia). Individuals with sepsis often get a rash with tiny blood spots on their skin. 2023 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 2017; 10.1016/j.jaad.2016.11.009. The collection of blood makes a bruise visible. Find out about the side effects of medications you take. Erickson, F. (2014). Certain medications may contribute to easy bruising by decreasing the blood's ability to clot. Finally, if you're experiencing other problems, too, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, blood in your poop, bleeding gums, bloody noses, new headaches, weight loss, or fatigue, it's definitely time to book that appointment, says Dr. Elliott.
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