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Contusion,
ecchymosis
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Bruising is bleeding that occurs underneath the surface of the skin. Normally, it is usually caused by injury. In patients with bleeding disorders,
however, bruising may occur spontaneously or with minimal injury. Since bruises are formed from clotted blood, they tend to start out as dark or reddish shadowing close to the surface of the skin. As the trapped blood is broken down and absorbed by the body, it changes color -- typically to green and yellow -- because of chemical changes in the blood. Smaller contusions tend to
resolve in a few weeks, but larger and deeper ones can take
months to heal.
- In the case of spontaneous bruising or bruising with minimal injury, a workup for bleeding disorders
may be advised. Indicative symptoms include gums that bleed easily, persistent gum bleeding after dental procedures, and bleeding into the joints. Causes include hemophilia, Von Willebrand's disease, and liver disease.
- Certain medications often cause easy bruising in normal individuals. Aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and Naprosyn are common examples. Additionally, chronic use of corticosteroid medications (such as prednisone), used to treat emphysema or asthma, can also
cause easy bruising. Certain types of birth control
pills may also cause easy bruising as
well.
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See your physician for an evaluation.
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