July 2021

Easy bruising may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. Here are some of the most common causes for easy bruising. You may have a history of significant bleeding or bruising after surgical procedures. This may indicate that your easy bruising is a symptom of some kind of bleeding disorder. HuffPost is your trusted source for stories that help you lead a better life. We’ve got you covered on all things health, wellness, food, style, parenting, relationships, work, travel and lifestyle.

We’ve also partnered with Moderation Management, a non-profit dedicated to reducing the harm caused by the misuse of alcohol. Sunnyside is the leading alcohol health platform focused on moderation and mindfulness, not sobriety. On average, members see a 30% reduction in alcohol consumption in 3 months, leading to improved sleep, diet, and overall wellbeing. Drinking too much alcohol may lead to a tingling sensation or numbness in your legs, feet, or hands, known as alcoholic neuropathy. This is one of the most common side effects of long-term alcohol consumption.

Treating bruises

But bruising shouldn’t always be dismissed so easily, says hematologist Dana Angelini, MD. Alcohol impairs your cerebellum, the part of your brain that’s responsible for coordinating your movements, Swartzwelder says. Apply Ice Wrap a cold pack in a towel or washcloth and hold it against the bruise for 10 to 15 minutes.

• However, leaving these symptoms undiagnosed and untreated — especially while continuing to consume alcohol — can lead to a faster progression of liver disease over time.
• Alcohol can deprive you of the energy and mental focus you need to go through the following day.
• The liver makes coagulation factors that are needed to stop bleeding.
• You may also find purple blotches on the back of your hands or arms.
• If you’re in the latter category, that means you bruise easily, which should raise a red flag and prompt further investigation into your health.

For example, a hematoma is a large raised, painful pool of blood. Petechiae are pinpoint reddish areas in the skin (these can be difficult to see in dark-colored skin). Of note, though bruising may occur with sports injuries, those injuries can happen to anyone active in some way (e.g., painters, gardeners). Treatments may include medications, surgery and chemotherapy. Cancer-related bruises tend to appear in odd places, like the torso or hands.

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Anyone who experiences these symptoms should seek prompt medical advice, as early treatment is often effective. Purpura is more common in people with light skin, but anyone can develop it. On dark skin tones, purpura may appear purple or as darker skin. alcohol and bruising Easy bruising may also run in families, so individuals whose relatives bruise easily may notice that they do too. So can prescription medicines, such as certain antidepressants. Blood pooling and clotting beneath the surface causes skin discoloration.

When other symptoms, like nosebleeds, heavy periods, or excessive bleeding after surgery, accompany bruising, something more than an accident may be the issue. It’s much less common, but severe and unexplainable bruising can be a sign of a blood cancer, such as leukemia. Depending on the type of disorder, they might recommend treatments like topical medications, iron supplements or blood transfusions.