Bruises, or hematomas, are a common phenomenon everyone experiences. However, their appearance is not always related to obvious injuries or impacts. Often, people notice bruises without any visible cause, which raises concern. The question arises: is this a normal body reaction or a sign of serious internal problems? In this article, Baltimore Chronicle will examine all possible causes, risk factors, and advice on what to do in case of frequent bruising.
How Does a Bruise Form: What Happens to the Body
A bruise is the result of damage to small blood vessels (capillaries) under the skin. When vessels rupture, blood leaks into surrounding tissues, creating a spot that changes color over time. Usually, a bruise heals on its own within a few days or weeks.
Normally, bruises appear after a blow or pressure. But when hematomas occur without obvious reason, this may indicate problems with blood clotting, vitamin deficiencies, or chronic diseases.
The Most Common Causes of Bruises Without Injuries
Often, bruises appear even without physical impact. This may indicate the general state of the body or pathologies.
Physiological and Everyday Factors
- Thin skin in elderly people
- Hormonal changes (especially in women)
- Tight clothing or backpacks pressing on the skin
- Taking anticoagulants or aspirin
- Stress and chronic fatigue
Metabolic Disorders
Vitamin deficiencies can cause capillary fragility:
- Vitamin C: deficiency causes scurvy, increases vessel fragility
- Vitamin K: necessary for blood clotting
- Vitamin B12 and folic acid: affect blood formation
Hematological Diseases
- Thrombocytopenia
- Hemophilia
- Leukemia
- Liver dysfunction
In such cases, bruises often accompany other symptoms: weakness, nosebleeds, bleeding gums.
Bruises in Children and Elderly: What to Know
In Children
Bruises in children are common due to active lifestyle. However, pay attention if they:
- Appear in unusual places (abdomen, back)
- Are accompanied by nosebleeds
- Do not disappear for a long time
This may indicate genetic clotting disorders or leukemia.
In Elderly People
With age, vessels become more fragile, and skin loses elasticity. Bruises often appear even from light pressure. But if they occur regularly and in large numbers, it may signal:
- Clotting disorders
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Liver or heart problems
When Bruises Signal Serious Danger
Not all hematomas are harmless. There are signs when you must see a doctor:
- Bruises appear without visible cause and constantly
- They are large and painful
- Appear along with nosebleeds
- Occur in the mouth or mucous membranes
- Are accompanied by high fever or weight loss
These symptoms may indicate oncological or immune disorders.
Comparison of Common Causes of Bruises
| Cause | Associated Symptoms | Characteristics of Hematomas |
|---|---|---|
| Physical injuries | Pain at injury site | Single localized bruise |
| Vitamin deficiency | Dry skin, weakness | Small bruises over the body |
| Medication intake | No other symptoms | Regular bruises after pressure |
| Clotting disorders | Bleeding, fatigue | Large, painful bruises |
| Liver disease | Jaundice, nausea | Bruises without cause, weakness |
How to Get Rid of Bruises and Prevent Their Appearance
Home Remedies
- Apply ice during the first hours
- Use ointments with arnica or heparin
- Gentle massage around the bruise after 2–3 days
Lifestyle Changes
- Consume foods rich in vitamins C, K, B12
- Control weight and cholesterol levels
- Avoid tight clothing
- Moderate physical activity to improve blood circulation
Medical Assistance
If bruises appear frequently, a doctor may prescribe:
- Blood clotting tests (coagulogram)
- Vitamin level tests
- Ultrasound of liver and spleen
- Consultation with a hematologist or therapist
Prevention: How to Keep Your Blood Vessels Healthy
To avoid spontaneous hematomas, it is important to care for vascular health. For this:
- Regularly undergo medical check-ups
- Monitor blood pressure and blood sugar
- Avoid self-medicating with anticoagulants
- Eat a balanced diet
- Avoid excessive alcohol and smoking
Earlier we wrote about how to quickly get rid of a fever.