7 Ways to Treat Bruising

Falling or bumping is almost an inevitable experience for everyone, which usually leads to subcutaneous bleeding. The bruises on our arms and legs are unsightly but difficult to cover, especially in summer. If you have a bruise after an injury, here are 7 ways that can help you to recover sooner.

1. Ice Therapy

Ice Therapy is the most used and effective way to reduce bruising. If there is no wound on your skin, you can put an ice pack on the bruises. The capillaries will contract due to the low temperature, thus can reduce bruising caused by subcutaneous bleeding. Generally, ice compress is only applicable to the temporary mitigation measures just after the injury. If obvious bruises have already formed, this method will have little effect. 

2. Hot compress

When there is no skin wound and the bruises have occurred for more than 48 hours, you can use hot compress to alleviate blood stasis. Put a warm towel on the bruises twice a day for at least 15 minutes each time. Consult your doctor before using warm compresses if the site is still swollen. 

3. Banana peels

Studies show that some components in banana peels have obvious effects on relieving bruises. Put banana peel on the bruised area and gently rub it, your bruises may look better several days later. 

4. Take medicine

Medicines are also helpful for accelerating the healing process of bruising. You can take paracetamol, ibuprofen or apply Arnica ointment with your doctor's order. Please do not take aspirin, fish oil, Ω-3 fatty acids, allicin, or vitamin E since they will aggravate the condition of bruising. And if you have a history of drug allergy, please consult your doctor before use. 

5. Elevation

You can lift your bruised limbs higher than your heart with pillows propped. This improves circulation in the leg, allowing the blood and fluids to flow away from the injury instead of pooling and causing swelling. This method is often used right after the bumping happened. There is no need to elevate them for too long in case that your limbs get numb. 

6. Expose the bruised part to the sun

You can also get your bruised parts exposed to the direct sunlight for about 15 minutes, and ultraviolet rays will help to decompose bilirubin therefore may shortening the healing time.

7. Eat pineapple

Pineapple contains a digestive enzyme called bromelain, which can decompose proteins that trap blood and fluid in cell tissues. In that case, Eating pineapple as much as possible, absorb bromelain, and help the body remove silt. In addition, eating vegetables and fruits with high vitamin C such as papayas, oranges, mangoes, cauliflowers, sweet potatoes can also help reduce bruising.  Generally speaking, as long as you keep a good rest and drink enough water, the bruise will heal and disappear in about two weeks spontaneously. But if you don't get better after more than 14 days, you need to see a doctor.