Bruising

Alternate Names : Purpura, Hematoma, Ecchymoses, Contusion, Petechiae

What can be done to prevent the symptom?

The causes of bruising will determine whether there are ways to prevent bruising. Wearing protective clothing may prevent some bruising. Avoiding excessive exposure to the sun may minimize skin damage. Other cases of bruising may be prevented or decreased if the cause is eliminated, such as replacing vitamins in someone who has vitamin deficiency. In other cases of bruising, the underlying cause may not always be cured. Being careful not to bang or knock the skin against hard surfaces may decrease the likelihood of developing bruises. Also, if a person is taking a blood thinner, it is important that they take it exactly as prescribed in order to reduce the likelihood of bruising.

What are the long-term effects of the symptom?

Long-term effects of bruising will depend on the underlying cause of the bruising. A bruise caused by a shin hitting a chair may heal without any long-term effects. A person who has blood disorders may require blood transfusions and medications over a long period of time. In some cases, a person with leukemia or cancer may have a treatable form of the disease. In other cases, death may result.

What are the risks to others?

Bruising is not contagious, although there may be a tendency for bruising to run in families. If an underlying infection is causing the bruising, this infection may be contagious.