Senior citizens arm bruising

The medical term for a bruise is a contusion. This is caused when the numerous minute blood vessels that are present in our body get broken or damaged, on account of a blow to the skin. The raised portion of a bruise is formed, because the blood from these damaged vessels leaks into the tissues. This gives rise to a purplish colored, flat bruise on the skin, which is called an ecchymosis. The degree or extent of an injury that is required to form a bruise will vary as one ages. While one hand bruising in a child may require a substantial amount of force, on the other hand minor scrapes and bumps can cause extensive bruising in an elderly individual. This is mainly because; as we age the blood vessels tend to become more fragile and delicate and the skin tends to get thinner. In fact bruising in an elderly person may occur even without prior injury.

Several home remedies are available that can help treat bruises effectively. Cabbage is known to contain anti-inflammatory properties and hence works well on bruises. Take a few cabbage leaves and blend them into a thin fine paste. Apply a generous layer of this paste on the bruise and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. This procedure should be repeated 3-4 times a day for optimum results. Parsley is also a very popular choice in the treatment of bruises. It has a high vitamin content and has a therapeutic effect on the bruise.  Crush a few parsley leaves into a thick paste and then apply it on the affected area 3-4 times a day. This treatment should be continued till there is a visible reduction in the bruise marks. Adding with hazel to warm bath water will also help to a very large extent. This will help in enhancing blood circulation. Its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and astringent qualities make it an excellent home remedy.

The application of comfrey tea on the affected area will reduce pain and prevent any discoloration of the skin. A cold compress or ice pack can also be applied to the bruise. This remedy however should not be resorted to on broken skin. A mixture made from apple cider vinegar and cold water can also be applied on the affected area. Consume a diet that is rich in iron and Vitamin C. Cauliflower, citrus fruits, sweet potatoes and broccoli are good sources of vitamin C. Eating plenty of vegetables and fruits would also help.

answered by M W

Remedies

Disruption or breakage of the blood vessels, results in bruises or contusions. Blood flow into the adjacent tissues and are a common result of trauma or deficiency. An ice pack is helpful in relieving pain. A massage with tea tree oil proves beneficial. Circulation is enhanced by a massage. Supplements of antioxidants, such as vitamin E and A, zinc and ascorbic acid hastens the healing process. RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation) is an important acronym in dealing with bruises. Placing the affected area in an elevated manner is important. Avoid severe massaging, as it worsens the injury. Use of corticosteroids also gives rise to boils. A compress made of honey and turmeric powder is helpful. Oils of hyssop, lavender, fennel and camphor are beneficial, when applied on gauze and is used as a compress. Beet and carrot juice are beneficial. Ice or steam application, through hydrotherapy is also helpful. Wrapping the hands with an elastic crepe bandage helps in preventing further leakage of blood. Ice pack helps in constriction of blood vessels, thereby preventing leakage. Supplementation of vitamin K also proves helpful.

answered by Dr C