Have you ever noticed a bruise on your body and wondered how it got there? While most bruises are harmless and result from minor bumps or injuries, sometimes they can be a sign of something more serious.
Bruises form when tiny blood vessels under the skin, called capillaries, break and leak blood into the surrounding tissue. This causes the skin to change color, starting with dark blue or purple and fading to yellow or green as it heals. While this process is normal, frequent or unexplained bruising can sometimes indicate an underlying health issue.
In some cases, unexplained bruising can be a symptom of a blood disorder, such as low platelet count or a clotting problem. It can also be a sign of a vitamin deficiency, particularly in vitamins C or K, which are essential for healthy blood vessels and clotting. Certain medications, like blood thinners, can also increase your likelihood of bruising.
If you notice frequent or severe bruising without a clear cause, or if it’s accompanied by other symptoms like fatigue or dizziness, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional. While bruises are usually harmless, they can sometimes be your body’s way of telling you something needs attention.
