How to Treat Contusion Bruises
Everyone has gotten a bruise under his skin at one time or another, whether from something as simple as accidentally hitting your hand against a piece of furniture or the result of a serious accident. Self-treatment for what medical professionals call a contusion is fairly straightforward and can be done in the comfort of your home.
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Instructions
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Identify the cause
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Know that bruises--also known as contusions--occur when a trauma to the body has occurred, such as falling on the ground or just bumping into a wall. The capillaries rupture and the blood diffuses into the surrounding tissue, creating the typical blue-black pattern.
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Assess the area around the bruise, because there could be additional injuries. Palpitate around the bruise to check for additional pain or swelling. If there is a lot of pain when you are pushing on the site of the injury, consider that a bone could be broken and seek medical advice.
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Understand that contusions that don't heal on their own after two or three weeks necessitate a trip to the doctor. There could be a more serious underlying condition that needs professional medical attention.
Treat the bruise
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Apply ice to the bruised area. Instead of putting an ice pack directly on the injury, wrap it in a cloth to act as a buffer between the ice and the skin. This protects the skin from frostbite. Use direct pressure. Lightly press the ice pack on the contusion site in order to decrease swelling around the injury.
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Elevate the injured part of the body. Keeping the bruised area above the heart will slow the blood flow to the bruise to stop it from further enlarging.
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Keep still. Move as little as possible for the next 12 to 24 hours to reduce bleeding at the site of the contusion and speed the healing process. Bed rest is advisable in more severe cases.
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Take pain medication. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are your best bets, as they will reduce swelling and reduce pain caused by the bruise. It is especially helpful if you have sustained a very large contusion or a have a great number of bruises.
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Avoid caffeine and alcohol. If you take blood-thinning prescription drugs, such as warfarin, and the bruise is very large, consult your doctor. Your physician may want to reduce your dosage or temporarily stop you from taking the medicine. Also stay away from aspirin, as it will stop the blood at the injury site from clotting, extending the healing time.
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Tips & Warnings
If you bruise very easily, seek medical advice. There could be a serious underlying condition.
