$Unique_ID{BRK01354}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{What Should be Done for Bruising?}
$Subject{bruises treatment accident accidents skin subcutaneous tissue bruise
bruising swelling cold bleeding blood vessels treating treat tissues swell
swollen swells cool}
$Volume{O-20, L-20}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Should be Done for Bruising?


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QUESTION:  I am a bit awkward, and so constantly knock myself against tables
and chairs, with the result that I usually have a bruise somewhere on my arms
or legs.  While they may be sore for a while, they are not too burdensome, but
I have often wondered whether there was a correct method for dealing with
them.  I usually just put a hot washcloth over the spot, and hope it helps.
What should I be doing?

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ANSWER:  You should be trying to be a bit more careful in getting about, and
changing your method of treatment.  Whenever there is a possibility of
swelling or bruising, the correct measure is to apply cold to the area.  A
bruise is an area where there is an injury causing bleeding to occur just
below the skin.  A cold application helps contract the blood vessels and
reduce the amount of bleeding that occurs.  Heat does just the opposite, and
can make things a good deal worse.  Incidentally, don't try to treat the pain
or swelling with aspirin, as that may reduce the ability of the blood to
coagulate, and increase the amount of bleeding in the area.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.