The Bruise News: Helping You Heal

Why Am I Bruising Like a Banana?

Bruising and mild bleeding are common and usually nothing to worry about. As we age, our skin gets thinner and our blood vessels get a bit more delicate. Dr. Correa calls it "vintage skin". Medications like aspirin, blood thinners, and even some supplements can also make bruises pop up more easily. Sometimes, a bump you barely remember can leave a big bruise!

Types of Bruises: What's Normal?

• Classic Bump Bruises: These show up after bumping into furniture, usually on shins, arms, or hips. They start out purple or blue, then fade to green, yellow, and brown over a week or two.

• Petechiae: Tiny red or purple spots, often from minor pressure or rubbing. These are usually harmless but can sometimes signal a platelet problem if they appear in clusters or without clear cause.

• Hematomas: Larger, swollen bruises that may feel firm or tender. These can happen after a bigger bump or fall and take longer to heal.

• Solar Purpura: These flat, purple patches often appear on the backs of the hands and forearms in older adults. Our older generation today didn't have great choices on sunscreen back when it really mattered in their youth, and this is why solar purpura is so common in people over 70 (sun exposure, even if long ago, causes loss of skin collagen and elasticity). Solar purpurae do not form from bumps or trauma: they form from fragile blood vessels under thin, sun-damaged skin. Solar purpura looks dramatic, but it is totally harmless and not a sign of a blood disorder.

When Is a Bruise Just a Bruise?

Most bruises and minor bleeding (like the occasional nosebleed or gum bleed when flossing) are harmless. Here’s when you can relax:

• Bruises are small, painless, and fade over a week or two.

• Bleeding stops on its own and isn’t heavy.

• There’s a clear reason (like bumping into the kitchen counter).

When to Call the Pros (That's Us)

While most bruises are just badges of daily life, sometimes they can signal something more serious. Give us a call if you notice:

• Bruises that are huge, painful, or appear without any injury.

• Frequent nosebleeds or gum bleeding that’s hard to stop.

• Blood in your urine or stool.

• Heavy periods that soak through pads or tampons every hour for several hours.

• Family history of bleeding problems or if you’re starting a new medication.

Common Types of Bleeding:

• Nosebleeds (Epistaxis): Nosebleeds are very common and about 60% of people will have one at some point. Most start in the front of the nose and are easy to stop with gentle pressure. Dry air, allergies, nose picking, and blood thinners can all make nosebleeds more likely. Frequent or hard-to-stop nosebleeds can sometimes be a sign of a bleeding disorder, especially if there are other symptoms like easy bruising or gum bleeding.

• Heavy Menstrual Periods (Menorrhagia): Soaking through pads/tampons every hour or periods lasting > 7 days can be a sign of a bleeding disorder, especially in teens and young women. The most common genetic cause is von Willebrand disease, but other conditions can also play a role. If heavy periods are new or worsening, or if there’s a family history of bleeding, it’s worth a conversation.

Top Tips to Keep Bruising at Bay

• Furniture Awareness: That coffee table isn’t moving. Watch your shins!

• Protect Your Skin: Long sleeves and pants can help if you’re prone to bumps.

• Gentle Dental Care: Use a soft toothbrush and floss gently.

• Stay Hydrated: Healthy skin is less likely to bruise.

• Medication Check: Let us know about all your meds and supplements, as some can increase bleeding risk.

First Aid for Bruises and Bleeds

• Bruise: Apply a cold pack for 10-20 minutes to reduce swelling.

• Minor Bleed: Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth until bleeding stops.

• Nosebleed: Lean forward (NOT BACK!) and pinch your nostrils for 10 minutes.

  
  

Fun Fact: The most common inherited bleeding disorder is called von Willebrand disease. Most people with mild symptoms never need treatment, just a little extra care if they need surgery or dental work.

The Bottom Line

Most bruises and minor bleeds are just part of life’s adventure. But if you’re ever unsure, we’re here to help. We always say that no question is too small or too silly. Stay safe, stay curious, and remember: the only thing you should be losing is your keys, not your blood!

Stay safe, stay colorful, and keep smiling!

Warm regards,

Aditi Correa, MD, MSCP

Your Partner in Health