medical term for bruise

2 min read 10-03-2025

The common term for a bruise is a contusion. Understanding the medical term, along with its causes, types, and treatments, can help you better understand and manage this common injury.

What is a Contusion (Bruise)?

A contusion, also known as a bruise, is a type of closed injury. This means there's no break in the skin. Instead, damage occurs to the soft tissues beneath the skin's surface. Specifically, small blood vessels (capillaries) rupture, causing blood to leak into the surrounding tissues. This trapped blood leads to the characteristic discoloration and swelling associated with a bruise.

Understanding the Discoloration

The color of a bruise changes over time due to the breakdown of hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells. Initially, the bruise may appear red or purple. As the blood breaks down, it may turn blue, green, yellow, and finally brown before disappearing completely. The timeline varies depending on the severity of the injury and individual factors.

Severity of Bruises

Bruises range in severity, from minor discolorations to significant hematomas (collections of blood). The size and depth of the bruise often reflect the force of the impact. Minor contusions often heal within a week or two, while larger or deeper bruises may take longer.

Causes of Bruises (Contusions)

Bruises are commonly caused by trauma, such as:

Falls: Tripping, stumbling, or falling can easily cause bruises, particularly on the knees, elbows, and hips.
Bumps and Collisions: Running into objects or being struck by another person or object can lead to bruising.
Sports Injuries: Contact sports frequently result in bruises and other injuries.
Medical Procedures: Certain medical procedures, like injections or blood draws, can sometimes cause minor bruising at the injection or puncture site.
Underlying Medical Conditions: In some cases, easy bruising may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, such as a bleeding disorder or a deficiency in vitamin K or other clotting factors. This warrants a visit to your physician.

What to look for when Bruises are Concerning

While most bruises are harmless, some warrant medical attention. Seek medical advice if:

The bruise is excessively large or deep. A hematoma that is larger than a few inches or is deeply painful may require medical attention.
The bruise is accompanied by significant swelling, pain, or limited mobility. These symptoms could indicate a more severe underlying injury.
You bruise easily without any apparent cause. Easy bruising might indicate a clotting disorder or other health issues.
You experience unexplained bruising, particularly if accompanied by other symptoms like fatigue or fever. This could indicate a more serious medical condition.

Treatment Options for Contusions

Treatment for most bruises is conservative and focuses on managing symptoms. This usually involves:

Rest and Elevation: Elevating the bruised area above the heart can help reduce swelling.
Ice Packs: Applying ice packs for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, can help minimize swelling and pain. Never apply ice directly to the skin; wrap it in a thin towel.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation.
Compression: A compression bandage can help reduce swelling.

When to See a Doctor About a Bruise

While most bruises heal on their own, it's crucial to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

Severe pain
Extensive swelling
Inability to move the affected area
Signs of infection (redness, warmth, pus)
Bruising that doesn't improve after a few weeks
Frequent, unexplained bruising

Understanding the medical term for a bruise—contusion—and its associated causes and treatments empowers you to manage this common injury effectively. Remember to consult a medical professional if you have concerns about a bruise or experience any unusual symptoms.