Bruising after an injury
Minor bruising commonly occurs after a sudden (acute) injury. Mild swelling may also occur. Home treatment is usually all that is needed for minor bruises.
A large, painful, swollen bruise that develops within 30 minutes of an injury may indicate a more serious injury, such as:
- A severe strain or sprain.
- A broken bone (fracture).
- A dislocation.
- An injury to a medium or large blood vessel.
- A problem with normal blood clotting.
Prompt treatment can prevent complications and promote healing.
| Author | Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Terrina Vail |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine |
| Last Updated | August 31, 2006 |
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Last Updated:
August 31, 2006
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