What are cuts and bruises?
Bruises (bleeding into the skin without a cut or laceration) are often occur due to a direct blow to a body part; some children with blood clotting difficulties may be more likely to bruise than others. Cuts, wounds and lacerations result from contact with something sharp, such as a knife, glass or saw.
How do you treat cuts and bruises?
Cuts, Scratches and Scrapes – Treatment:
- Use direct pressure to stop any bleeding.
- Wash the wound with soap and water for 5 minutes.
- Caution: Never soak a wound that might need sutures.
- Gently scrub out any dirt with a washcloth.
- Use an antibiotic ointment (such as Polysporin).
What is the meaning of the bruises?
1a : an injury involving rupture of small blood vessels and discoloration without a break in the overlying skin : contusion. b : a similar injury to plant tissue. 2 : abrasion, scratch. 3 : an injury especially to the feelings criticisms that left a bruise. bruise.
How long do cuts and bruises take to heal?
With bruises, anti-inflammatory medicine can also help reduce the amount of swelling that exists. In most cases, it should only take a week or two to recover from a mild to moderate cut or bruise.
When should bruising be concerning?
When to Seek Medical Care Call the doctor if bruising occurs easily or for no apparent reason. Call the doctor if the bruise is painful and under a toenail or fingernail. Call the doctor if a bruise does not improve within two weeks or fails to completely clear after three or four weeks.
Can I ice a cut?
Apply ice on your wound for 15 to 20 minutes every hour or as directed. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover it with a towel. Ice helps prevent tissue damage and decreases swelling and pain.
Is a bruise considered a wound?
A contusion also called a bruise is one of the commonest types of wounds. The contused area is large or over a joint or around the eye. The contusion appeared unprovoked or without any injury.
What is the technical term for a bruise?
Contusion is the medical term for a bruise. It is the result of a direct blow or an impact, such as a fall. Contusions are common sports injuries. Most people think of a bruise as a black-and-blue spot. This happens when small blood vessels get torn and leak blood under the skin.
Do bruises get worse as they heal?
Bruising takes on many colors as the body works to heal an injury. It is normal for a bruise to change color over time. A person can expect about four phases of colors to a bruise before it fades away. If a bruise does not fade, becomes worse, or other issues accompany it, a person should consult a doctor.
Why is my cut turning purple?
In the initial stages of wound healing, the wound and developing scar appear red or reddish-purple. This is because the injured area sends signals to the body to direct more blood flow to the area to help the healing process.