Definition
Bruises to the skin anywhere on the body
Bruises are bleeding into the skin from damaged blood vessels
They can occur without a cut or scrape
Health Information
Symptoms
The main symptom is pain.
Prevention
Careful adult supervision of young children
Education of older children about high risk behaviors
Care Advice
Cold Pack:
Use a cold pack or ice bag wrapped in a wet cloth.
Put it on the bruise once for 20 minutes.
Reason: This will help to stop the bleeding.
Caution: Avoid frostbite.
Heat Pack:
After 48 hours, put heat on the bruise.
Use a heat pack, heating pad or warm wet washcloth.
Do this for 10 minutes, 2 times per day.
Reason: This helps to remove the blood.
Caution: Avoid burns.
Pain Medicine:
To help with the pain, give acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) or ibuprofen. Use as needed.
What to Expect:
Bruises fade away in 1-2 weeks.
Call Your Doctor If
Pain becomes severe
Bruises aren’t gone in 2 weeks
You think your child needs to be seen
Your child becomes worse
Author: Barton Schmitt MD, FAAP
Copyright 2000-2020 Schmitt Pediatric Guidelines LLC
Disclaimer: This health information is for educational purposes only. You the reader assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it. The information contained in this handout should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. Listing of any resources does not imply an endorsement.
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