Prevent Bruising
Bruising occurs when the blood vessels break under the skin, usually as a result of a fall or a blow to the body. Bruising may also occur after surgery or after cosmetic treatments, such as Botox or Juvederm injections. Take the following steps to reduce the appearance of bruises and to prevent bruising before it happens.
Contents
Steps
Heal New Bruises Quickly
- Apply a cold compress, such as a cold washcloth, to the bruise for 1 to 2 days after the injury. Never apply ice directly to your skin; it could cause frostbite.
- Avoid massaging the bruise or applying heat, which may cause it to worsen.
- Elevate and rest the bruised area.
- Take bromelain. Bromelain, a supplement derived from pineapple stems, may reduce bruising and swelling by breaking down blood proteins.
Prevent Bruising Before it Occurs
- Take arnica supplements. Arnica montana, or leopard's bane, helps to prevent bruising and can be found in most drugstores.
- Avoid certain pain relievers. NSAIDs like naproxen and diclofenac along with ibuprofen and aspirin may all cause thinning of the blood. Try acetaminophen instead.
- Reduce your alcohol intake. Alcohol, especially when combined with NSAIDs, thins the blood.
- Cut out certain supplements. Vitamin E, ginseng, gingko biloba, ginger, omega-3, St. John's wort and garlic pills are all blood thinners.
- Incorporate foods abundant in bioflavonoids into your diet. Bioflavonoids help to strengthen your blood vessels and connective tissue. Foods rich in bioflavonoids include oranges, berries, grapes and green beans.
- Increase your protein consumption. Lean protein helps to strengthen blood vessel walls. Eat nutritious proteins like fish, poultry, eggs and nuts.
- Eat healthy fats. Healthy fats keep your capillary walls flexible. Enjoy avocados, vegetable oil, seeds and oily fish.
- Wear protective gear when you are engaged in sports and outdoor activities. Protective gear will prevent bruising caused by impacts or falls.
Tips
- Before discontinuing doctor-recommended pain relievers or supplements, always talk to your primary care physician or specialist.
Warnings
- If you notice that you suddenly begin to bruise easily, that your bruises are large and painful, and that you can't explain the origin of the bruises, talk to your doctor.
- See a physician immediately if your bruises are accompanied by persistent pain or headaches.
- If sudden bruising is accompanied by bleeding from your gums or your nose, or if you begin to notice blood in your stool or in your urine, notify a physician.
Things You'll Need
- Cold compresses
- Bromelain
- Arnica
- Acetaminophen
- Bioflavin-rich foods
- Lean protein
- Healthy fats
- Protective sports gear
