Understanding Bruises: When to Worry and What to Consider
Bruises are a common occurrence—most people experience them at some point. They happen when small blood vessels near the skin’s surface break, causing blood to leak into surrounding tissue. While most are harmless and resolve on their own, some individuals bruise more easily than others. Knowing the reasons behind frequent bruising is essential for understanding whether it signals a minor issue or something more serious.
Why Do Bruises Happen?
A typical bruise starts as a red mark, gradually turning blue or purple, and then fading to green, yellow, or brown as it heals. Healing usually takes two to three weeks. However, certain factors influence the size, color, and duration of bruises—such as where on the body they occur, age, and even skin thickness. For example, bruises on the arms and legs often appear more prominently and may heal slower than elsewhere.
Understanding Bruises: When to Worry and What to Consider
Bruises are a common occurrence—most people experience them at some point. They happen when small blood vessels near the skin’s surface break, causing blood to leak into surrounding tissue. While most are harmless and resolve on their own, some individuals bruise more easily than others. Knowing the reasons behind frequent bruising is essential for understanding whether it signals a minor issue or something more serious.
Why Do Bruises Happen?
A typical bruise starts as a red mark, gradually turning blue or purple, and then fading to green, yellow, or brown as it heals. Healing usually takes two to three weeks. However, certain factors influence the size, color, and duration of bruises—such as where on the body they occur, age, and even skin thickness. For example, bruises on the arms and legs often appear more prominently and may heal slower than elsewhere.