Bruising is defined as bleeding into the skin, subcutaneous tissues, or mucous membranes. Purpura is flat areas where blood has collected under the tissue; a hematoma is a larger collection that forms a lump.

• Bleeding from the gums
• Bleeding from a cut or a nosebleed that continues even after applying pressure for 20 minutes to the injured area
• Lots of lumpy, tender lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin
• Belly pain or a hard mass in the belly
• Bruising all over the body without a recent big fall
• Swollen and tender joints
• Bruises that are a strange shape and that appear on the back, head, or genitals
• Signs of serious illness, including fevers that come and go, constant fatigue, or weight loss

• Local injury or trauma
• Allergic reaction
• Autoimmune disorders
• Viral infection or illness affecting blood coagulation
• Thrombocythemia
• Medical treatment, including radiation and chemotherapy
• Bruise (ecchymosis)
• Birth (petechiae in the newborn)
• Aging skin (ecchymosis)
• Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (petechiae and purpura)
• Henoch-Schonlein purpura (purpura)• Leukemia (purpura and ecchymosis)
• Drugs
• Anticoagulants such as warfarin or heparin (ecchymosis)
• Aspirin (ecchymosis)
• Cortisone (ecchymosis)
• Septicemia (petechiae, purpura, ecchymosis)
• Violent vomiting or coughing (petechiae)

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

• Bleeding time and coagulation test
• CBC (complete blood count) with platelet count and blood differential
• Bone marrow biopsy.

Many Americans eat insufficient amounts of foods containing vitamin C; bruising is caused by vitamin C deficiency that is scurvy. While very few people actually have scurvy, even minor deficiencies of vitamin C can increase bruising. People who experience easy bruising may want to try eating more fruits and vegetables—common dietary sources of vitamin C. Doctors can assess the diet by using a diet diary, sometimes accompanied by computerized diet analysis. A diet diary is a written record of what and how much a person is eating, usually divided into sections by meal and/or day. As used by many doctors, diet diaries lasting one week are most common. If such an analysis reveals a lack of dietary vitamin C and flavonoids (related compounds), the diet requires more fruits and vegetables to correct the problem.

• Bruises (or purpuric lesions) are not permanent and will fade if the underlying cause can be treated successfully.
• For a hematoma, apply pressure and cold compresses initially to help reduce bleeding and swelling. After the first day, apply hot compresses to help speed the absorption of blood.
• For aging skin, protection of skin is recommended. Avoid trauma (such as bumping or pulling on skin areas).
• For a cut or scrape, use direct pressure to stop the bleeding.
• For a drug reaction, identify and consult the health care provider about discontinuing the drug.

• Apply ice frequently and squeeze bruise to release blood congestion. Rub vigorously.
• Don’t take aspirin if bruising is frequent.

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat, or prevent any disease.