Bumps, falls, and collisions can lead to colorful and sometimes tender bruises, especially for active kids and teens, and older adults. Most of these discolored areas disappear in a week or two.
Bruise First Aid
Try these tips to speed up the healing process:
- Ice. Apply cold compresses wrapped in a thin towel every 1 to 2 hours, for 15 minutes each time. Some people find it helpful to ice longer, even up to 48 hours after their injury.
- Elevate. If you can, keep the bruised area propped up above your heart to help with a reduction in the size of the swelling.
- Wrap. If the bruise is swelling, you might benefit from an elastic compression bandage around the area – but make sure it is not too tight!
When More Help May Be Needed
Because bruising can be a sign of a serious medical condition, call your primary care provider if you notice:
- Bruises appear without known injuries or you have unusual bleeding, such as from your gums, nose or in your urine.
- Bruises don’t go away after two weeks.
- Bruises show up after you start a new medication.
Seek urgent care if a bruise shows signs of infection, such as pus or fever or causes your joints to swell, and for bruises that cause difficulty with moving or walking.
If your bruises are from domestic violence, there is help. Please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233, text START to 88788, or chat on their website. Everyone deserves healthy relationships.
More to Read
- What to Do for Bites, Stings, and Rashes
- Should I Go to the ER, Urgent Care or Primary Care?
- 7 Tips to Help Your Child Avoid Sports Injury This Season
- How Can You Prevent Injury While Cycling? Gear Up and Warm Up
Medically reviewed by Priya Ponnaiyan, MD.