What should you know about frequent bruising?

A bruise forms when small blood vessels leak beneath the skin. Arms and legs may be affected after everyday contact, especially when skin becomes thinner with age or sun exposure. New bruises can also appear after starting or changing a medicine or supplement that affects clotting. Less commonly, repeated unexplained bruising occurs alongside a low platelet count, liver disease, nutritional problems, or another medical condition.

The pattern matters: note where bruises occur, whether they follow injury, how long they take to fade, and whether there is nose or gum bleeding, heavy menstrual bleeding, fatigue, fever, or unintended weight change.

Photograph new bruises beside a familiar object, record their dates and locations, and make a complete list of medicines and supplements. Do not stop a prescribed medicine without medical advice. Protect the skin from knocks and use a cool pack wrapped in cloth soon after a minor injury. Arrange a clinical review if bruises are appearing without a clear cause, are becoming larger or more frequent, or started after a medicine change.

Seek urgent care for heavy bleeding that does not stop, blood in vomit, urine, or stool, a severe headache after an injury, confusion, fainting, or a rapidly spreading bruise with severe pain. Prompt assessment is also needed for many tiny red-purple spots, fever, or marked weakness.

Ask whether you need blood tests, whether any medicine or supplement may contribute, and which bleeding symptoms should trigger immediate care. Mention family history and recent illness.