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A bruise is an injury to underlying tissues in which the skin is not broken. There are ruptured blood vessels that bleed into the tissues and cause discolouration. Bruises often result when skin is struck hard, as in a fall or blow. Bruises are usually purple at first, then gradually fade over several weeks to various shades of brown, yellow, and green.
Most bruises require no special treatment other than "RICE." RICE is a first aid term for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. This treatment relieves pain, minimizes swelling, and speeds healing. To TREAT a bruise with RICE, simply: - rest the injured part, particularly if it causes pain
- apply a cold wet cloth, ice pack, or package of frozen vegetables from your freezer
- wrap the cold pack in a cloth to protect the skin from too much
- apply a compression bandage that is not too tight so as to cut off blood circulation
- elevate the injured part above the level of the heart
Certain medical conditions can cause excessive bruising. YOU SHOULD CALL A DOCTOR IF ANY OF THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS DEVELOP: - bruises appear for no reason
- a bruise does not heal
- after a blow to the eye, there is blurred vision or
- two black eyes occur after being hit in the head
Article #7414 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
