What should I do If a bruise doesn't go away?
ANSWER
Most bruises aren't much more than a nuisance, but if it's very painful, or if you've had it for 2 weeks and it doesn't show signs of getting better, call your doctor.
Reviewed by Sabrina Felson on June 15, 2020
SOURCES:
American Cancer Society: "Signs and Symptoms of Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia."
American Osteopathic College of Dermatology: "Bruising Hands and Arms."
FamilyDoctor.org: "Bruises."
Go Ask Alice: "Unexplained Bruises."
Mayo Clinic: "Easy Bruising: Common as You Age."
Merck Manual: "Bruising and Bleeding," "Purpura Simplex."
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: "Cirrhosis."
OrthoInfo: "Muscle Contusion (Bruise)."
University of Maryland Medical Center: "Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)."
SOURCES:
American Cancer Society: "Signs and Symptoms of Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia."
American Osteopathic College of Dermatology: "Bruising Hands and Arms."
FamilyDoctor.org: "Bruises."
Go Ask Alice: "Unexplained Bruises."
Mayo Clinic: "Easy Bruising: Common as You Age."
Merck Manual: "Bruising and Bleeding," "Purpura Simplex."
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: "Cirrhosis."
OrthoInfo: "Muscle Contusion (Bruise)."
University of Maryland Medical Center: "Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)."
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on to make decisions about your health. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the WebMD Site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
This tool does not provide medical advice. See additional information.