Diagnosis and Treatment Archive
Bruising
 
What is bruising?

A bruise is an area where the small blood vessles break and bleed beneath the surface of the skin causing discoloration.

Bruising Overview
This link provides an overview of bruising, including the three types of bruises and images depicting each.

 

How do you tell a patient has bruising?

Bruises cause skin discoloration, which a doctor could see during a physical exam. The affected area is usually red, then darkens, and takes on a yellow or greenish color as it heals. The area around the bruise may also be tender to the touch and swollen.

 

Possible Causes