The CDC declares traumatic brain injury (TBI) a public health problem in the United States. In 2010, about 2.5 million emergency department (ED) visits, hospitalizations or deaths were associated with TBI—either alone or in combination with other injuries—in the United States.
Bruises

A bruise occurs when small blood vessels near the skin’s surface rupture or break which is often caused twist, bump or fall. Most bruises are not serious and will go away on their own within two to four weeks. Learn more from our experts about bruises.
Recently Answered
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1 AnswerBarbara Ficarra, RN , Nursing, answeredA brain bruise or contusion results from bleeding and swelling inside the brain where an injury occurred. It is a type of traumatic brain injury. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “a TBI is caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head or a penetrating head injury that disrupts the normal function of the brain.” It can result when the head violently and suddenly hits an object. However, not all bumps, blows or jolts to the head result in a TBI.
The CDC declares traumatic brain injury (TBI) a public health problem in the United States. In 2010, about 2.5 million emergency department (ED) visits, hospitalizations or deaths were associated with TBI—either alone or in combination with other injuries—in the United States. -
2 AnswersDr. Mehmet Oz, MD , Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease), answeredUnless your bruise is very serious, there is likely little a doctor can do for it. But there are several steps you can take at home:
- Apply ice or a cold pack, wrapped in a towel, for the first 24 hours after the injury.
- Elevate the area to reduce swelling.
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4 AnswersRealAge answered
A bruise occurs when broken blood vessels bleed into the tissue beneath the skin, causing local discoloration. The bruise usually occurs as a result of a fall, blow, or knock against a hard surface. Sometimes a person knows exactly how he or she got a bruise, and sometimes the bruise is a complete surprise. A bruise generally starts as a red mark and then turns from blue to brown to yellow-green as the blood is reabsorbed into the body. Some bruises are accompanied by a bump or swelling. This is most common if the bruise is on the forehead or somewhere else where the bone is very close to the skin. Most bruises are not serious, and they disappear on their own.
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2 AnswersAaron Nelson , NASM Elite Trainer , Sports Medicine, answeredThe best treatment for a bruised heal is ice and rest. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications can be used to treat the pain and inflammation. You can also use heal cups in your shoes to help protect and cushion the bruise while it heals. Heal cups can be found in different styles and sizes at most stores that have a medicine and bracing section.
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1 AnswerDr. Mehmet Oz, MD , Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease), answeredMedications that thin your blood like aspirin and or Coumadin (warfarin) can increase the risk of bruising. Watch as Dr. Oz talks about medications and bruising.
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1 AnswerDr. Mehmet Oz, MD , Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease), answeredEnzymes called bromelain and papain, found in pineapple and papaya can both be helpful for treating injuries such as bruises. Watch as Dr. Oz discusses their use.
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2 AnswersStacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answeredSome herbal supplements may increase your risk of bruising. Herbs including gingko biloba, ginseng, ginger, glucosamine, turmeric, angelica and clove all have the potential to thin the blood slightly. This can make bruising more likely, especially if more than one of these herbs are taken together. In addition, if you're on a prescription medication that thins your blood, these herbal supplements may cause excessive blood thinning and bruising. Consult your doctor before taking any herbal supplements, and tell him about any supplements you already take.
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1 AnswerDr. Mehmet Oz, MD , Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease), answeredAmong the medications that can make you bruise more easily are blood-thinning medications like aspirin and Coumadin (warfarin). Watch Dr. Oz talk more about medications and bruising.
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1 AnswerDr. Mehmet Oz, MD , Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease), answeredBruises get their red or purplish color from blood that collects underneath the skin after tiny blood vessels break. Watch as Dr. Oz talks more about bruises.
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1 AnswerDr. Mehmet Oz, MD , Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease), answeredWhen the body is struck and small blood vessels near the skin’s surface rupture, the trapped blood forms a red or purplish mark. Watch Dr. Oz explain more about bruising.