What is a bruise?

A bruise appears as discoloured skin on the body, usually caused by a blow or impact which results in rupturing underlying capillaries. Capillaries are tiny blood vessels which transport nutrients between the blood and surrounding tissues.

So how can I prevent and speed up the healing process?

Studies have shown that Vitamin C and K can help prevent bruising. But certain parts of the body, for example the shin, have less cushioning and as a result are more prone to bruising.

A bruise will generally start off a red-purple colour and as it starts to heal it slowly changes colour by getting lighter before the bruise disappears completely. Sometimes this process can take weeks but there are ways you can help decrease the healing time.

The best way to decrease the time it will take for your bruise to disappear is through the ingestion of Vitamin C and K as well as applying creams containing these vitamins. Interestingly, eating enough of certain fruits such as pineapples can also help in the healing process as they contain an enzyme called bromelain. If you attend to the bruising within 24 hours after the injury occurred, icing the area will also help.

When to seek medical help

Most of the time bruises fade on their own within two weeks and aren’t anything to worry about. Some people bruise easily, for no apparent reason. If the blow to the skin was severe, however, the blood will form into a lump or haematoma. These haematomas can appear quite large and look serious. Very rarely do these haematomas need medical attention, but they can become infected and require opening and draining.

The bumps can often be left unattended, however it can be dangerous as it can hide some bone injury, like a fracture. If the bruise is extremely sore hours after of receiving it, chances are high that it is a fracture and you should seek medical attention.