Bruise

Description

Bruises are being developed when small blood vessel beneath the skin tear apart or burst, mostly due to blunt injury or contusion. The blood leaks into the tissues beneath the skin and causes blue marks.

Symptoms

Pain, swelling, bluish marks, sensitivity. During the time the skin changes the colour from red, blue or violet to green, yellow or brown.

Overview

History of disease is being taken and physical examination is being done. X-rays is used to exclude the fracture. When needed, subfascial (intra-compartmental) pressure is being measured to exclude the compartment syndrome. Additional blood tests can be recommended if the bruises are extensive or if they appeared without trauma.

Tests

X-rays

Specialists

General Practice, Internal Medicine

Therapy

Treatment includes: exclusion of other injuries, elevation and cold compresses to reduce the swelling and immobilization with the splint to speed up the healing. Treatment is not necessary for minor bruises.