First Aid and Emergencies
Bruises
Bruises (contusions) are caused
by ruptured blood vessels under
the skin. Blood seeps into the
surrounding tissues, causing the black-and-blue colour of a bruise.
Bruises usually develop after
a bump or fall. People who take
aspirin or blood thinners (anticoagulants) may bruise easily.
A bruise may also develop after blood is drawn.
A black eye is a type of bruise.
If you have a black eye, apply Home Treatment for a bruise and inspect the
eye for blood. If there is any loss of or change in your vision or if you
cannot move your eye in all directions, see a doctor.
Apply ice or cold packs for 15 minutes every 1 to 2
hours. Do this for the first 72 hours to help blood
vessels constrict and to reduce swelling. The sooner you apply ice,
the less bleeding there will be.
If possible, elevate the bruised
area above the level of your heart. Blood will leave the area and
there will be less swelling.
Rest the injured limb so you don't injure it further.
If the area is still painful after
72 hours, apply heat with warm towels, a hot water bottle, or a heating
pad.
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If signs of infection develop:
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Increased pain, swelling, redness, or tenderness
(after the initial bruise).
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Heat or red streaks extending away from the area.
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Fever of 37.8°C (100°F) or higher with
no other cause.
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If pain increases or if your ability to use or move the
bruised part decreases.
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If a blow to the eye causes:
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Loss of or change in vision.
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Inability to move the eye normally in all directions.
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Severe pain in the eyeball rather than in the eye
socket.
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If you suddenly begin to bruise easily, or if you have
unexplained recurrent or multiple bruises.
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