Is Frequent Bruising a Cause for Concern?

 

While some people are more prone to bruising and women more so than men, it is true that as we age everyone bruises more easily.  According to the Mayo Clinic, older people’s skin is thinner and has lost some of its fatty layer that works as a cushion to protect blood vessels from injury.   

Contusion, the medical term for a bruise, is typically caused when the small blood vessels near the skin’s surface are broken by the impact of an injury or blow to the area.  This results in blood leaking out of the vessels and creating the black-and-blue mark of a bruise.  A bruise heals as the body reabsorbs the blood. 

There are even certain medications that are known to cause bruising.  The Mayo Clinic website cites aspirin and other anticoagulant medications and anti-platelet agents as things that reduce your blood's ability to clot.  They explain that “bleeding from capillary damage might take longer than usual to stop — which allows enough blood to leak out and cause a bruise.”  In addition they advise that some dietary supplements including fish oil and ginkgo may also increase the risk of bruising because of their blood-thinning effect.

Bruising can sometimes be a sign of serious medical conditions such as abnormally functioning or low levels of platelets as well as problems with the proteins that help to clot blood.  The Mayo Clinic recommends consulting your doctor if large bruises appear on your body for no reason or if you start bruising more after starting a new medication.

One thing you can do to try and prevent bruises is to clear away clutter from your home’s pathways.  Also if you are unsteady on your feet, considering using a cane or walker or install handrails to help you navigate more safely around your home. 

*Our post is for information purposes only and not a substitute for seeking medical advice.

 

At SYNERGY HomeCare, we are one of the most trusted names in home care in Colorado serving the Front Range since 2006. We have grown to 5 offices and will be adding 2 more locations in 2015 and our successful growth can be summarized by one word, "Service".   Our mission is to ensure that every client is treated with the upmost respect and dignity, and we strive to incorporate those beliefs into all of our home health care services. We are available 24/7 to listen to your unique story and provide you answers to all your questions.

Source:mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/easy-bruising/art-20045762