A bruise, medically known as an ecchymosis, forms when small blood vessels beneath the skin rupture, allowing blood to leak into surrounding tissues. This trapped blood causes discoloration that changes as it heals. While bruising can occur at any age, it is notably common in older adults, particularly on the arms. This increased frequency can sometimes be a source of concern, prompting questions about its underlying causes.
Natural Changes with Age
Aging brings about several natural physiological changes in the skin that contribute to increased bruising. The skin becomes thinner and less resilient over time. This reduction in skin thickness means there is less protective fatty tissue to cushion delicate blood vessels from injury.
The structural integrity of the skin also diminishes with age due to a reduction in collagen and elastin. These proteins provide support and elasticity to the skin, and their decline leaves blood vessels more exposed and vulnerable. Consequently, even minor impacts or pressure can cause capillaries and small blood vessels to rupture.
Blood vessels also become more fragile as a person ages. Their walls may weaken, making them more prone to tearing with minimal trauma. These age-related changes explain why older individuals often experience noticeable bruising from minor impacts.
Other Common Causes
Beyond natural aging, several external and medical factors can increase bruising in older adults. Medications are a major contributor. Anticoagulants, or blood thinners, inhibit the blood’s clotting ability. Antiplatelet drugs also interfere with clot formation. They allow blood to leak more extensively from broken vessels, leading to larger, more persistent bruises.
Corticosteroids also increase bruising. These medications contribute to skin thinning and weaken blood vessel walls, increasing susceptibility to damage. Certain antidepressants and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may similarly affect clotting or vessel integrity, exacerbating bruising.
Nutritional deficiencies can contribute to bruising. A lack of vitamin C, essential for collagen production, can weaken blood vessel walls and lead to increased fragility. Similarly, vitamin K deficiency can impair the blood clotting process, as it is necessary for the synthesis of specific clotting factors.
Underlying health conditions may also contribute to bruising. Conditions such as liver or kidney disease can affect the body’s ability to produce clotting proteins. Certain blood disorders directly impact blood clotting and can result in widespread or unexplained bruising.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While common, certain bruising characteristics warrant medical evaluation. Bruises that are unusually large, intensely painful, or accompanied by significant swelling require professional assessment. Bruises that appear without any clear injury or occur on areas not typically prone to trauma may indicate an underlying issue.
Seek medical attention if bruising is accompanied by other symptoms like fever, unexplained weight loss, or vision changes. A sudden increase in bruising frequency or severity, or bruising that doesn’t heal within two to four weeks, requires investigation. Consult a doctor if new bruising develops after starting a new medication, as it may indicate a side effect. A doctor can help determine if bruising is benign or a symptom of a more serious condition.
Reducing Bruising and Promoting Healing
Implementing protective measures can reduce bruising frequency. Wearing long-sleeved clothing provides a barrier against minor bumps and scrapes, particularly on the arms. Being mindful of surroundings and avoiding sharp furniture edges also minimizes accidental impacts. Maintaining adequate hydration and a balanced diet supports skin and blood vessel health.
Reviewing all medications with a healthcare provider is practical. A doctor can assess if prescribed drugs contribute to bruising and determine appropriate adjustments. However, it is important not to alter medication dosages without professional guidance.
For existing bruises, immediate care can help minimize their appearance and discomfort. Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area immediately after an injury can help constrict blood vessels, limiting blood leakage and reducing swelling. Elevating the bruised limb also decreases blood pooling. After initial swelling subsides, gentle massage around the bruise may disperse trapped blood. Over-the-counter creams containing ingredients like arnica or vitamin K are sometimes used to aid healing, though their effectiveness can vary among individuals.