How are contusions (bruises) treated?

It is often recommended that ice packs be applied on and off during the first 24 hours of injury to reduce the bruising. After that, heat, especially moist heat, is recommended to increase the circulation and the healing of the injured tissues. Rest, elevation of the effected part, and compression with a bandage will also retard the accumulation of blood. Long periods of standing may cause the blood that collects in a bruise to seep through the tissues. Rarely, if a bruise is so large that the body cannot completely absorb it or if the site becomes infected, it may have to be surgically removed.

If the bruise is being caused by medication interactions or dietary supplement/medication interactions, the individual and their doctor will stop the substance causing the increase in bleeding. If there are any questions about whether or not a medication can contribute to bruising, asking a doctor or pharmacist is important. Stopping medications should only be done under the supervision of a doctor.

Minor bruises are easily treated, but it is recommended by healthcare professionals to contact a doctor if: a bruise doesn't go away after two weeks; bruising occurs often without bumping into things and bruises seem to develop for no known reasons; a bruise is getting more painful; the bruise is swelling; the individual cannot move a joint; or the bruise is near the eye.

Bruises accompanied by persistent pain or headache also may indicate a more serious underlying illness and require medical attention. It is recommended by healthcare professionals that individuals: do not attempt to drain the bruise with a needle; do not continue running, playing, or otherwise using the painful, bruised part of the body; and do not ignore the pain or swelling.

If the bruise is caused by domestic violence, appropriate counseling is needed. Doctors will help the individual find a social worker or other healthcare counselor to help with domestic violence issues. Battered women's shelters are available for those in need. The National Domestic Abuse Hotline can be reached at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or 1-800-787-3224. For children, the National Child Abuse Hotline can be reached at 1-800-4-A-CHILD.

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