Defining Bruises
Bruises, or contusions, occur when an injury causes tiny blood vessels, or capillaries, to burst. The blood from these vessels leaks into the surrounding tissue, which causes the familiar discoloration.
Bruises and Blood
Surprisingly, the color of a bruise can reveal its age. Fresh bruises appear red due to oxygen-rich blood, then progress to dark blue or purple as the blood loses oxygen.
Inflammation's Role
Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury. White blood cells increase around the bruised area, which sometimes causes the bruise to feel warm and appear swollen.
Healing Process
As bruises heal, they change colors. The presence of biliverdin from broken down hemoglobin gives the bruise a greenish hue, which eventually turns to yellow due to bilirubin.
Factors Affecting Bruising
Some people bruise more easily than others. Age, medication, and certain medical conditions can affect skin's resiliency and blood vessels' fragility, influencing bruise frequency and severity.
Bruises and Health
Excessive bruising without clear cause can signal underlying issues like clotting disorders or vitamin deficiencies. It's essential to consult a doctor if you notice unusual bruising patterns.
Preventing Bruises
To minimize bruising, incorporate vitamin C and K into your diet to strengthen blood vessels and enhance clotting. Protective gear can also help prevent injuries that lead to bruising.Bruises on Bananas
Did you know? Bruises on bananas and human skin heal through similar biochemical processes involving oxidation and enzyme activity.
What causes the discoloration in bruises?
Burst capillaries leaking blood
External skin pigmentation changes
Inflammation of outer skin layer
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