Kids Choice Pediatrics LLC

What is a bruise?

Bruise (pronounced at brew - Z) is collection of blood underneath the skin. It is a wound in which the skin the does not break (as in a cut) but due to the injury, the blood vessels underneath the skin tear and blood collects forming a bruise. Initially the bruise appears shiny and red but it later changes color to black, blue, green, yellow and finally fades away.

This change in color is because the blood slowly disintegrates and finally disappears and is due to change in the pigment of the blood called "bilirubin." Well, fever is simply rise in body temperature. Normally our body temperature is usually around 98.6 degree Fahrenheit or 37 degree Celsius. Some people have body temperature slightly more or less than the above values.

What should I do if I get a bruise?
If you get hurt and your body part hurts and swells up, immediately apply ice. The ice narrows the torn blood vessels and will lessen the swelling. There will be less pain as there is less bleeding. Ice when applied in the initial half an hour is most effective but can be applied even after that. Later you may require some painkillers if it pains too much.

When will a bruise heal?
A bruise usually heals within a fortnight and then you can be back on your toes as ever again.