Random Bruising: Aging vs. Concern
Unexplained Bruises: When to See a Doctor
Table of Contents
Q) SHOULD I be worried about random bruises? I am 68 and have no other symptoms.
I can attribute some of them to something but the others were random. Is this just normal ageing?
A) Thank you for sending the images which show many bruises of a variety of ages on your limbs.
When bruises appear without known injury or trauma, we call this spontaneous bruising, and it should not be ignored or fobbed off as a normal part of ageing.
It is indeed true that we are more likely to bruise easily as we get older. our skin naturally becomes thinner, and our blood vessels can become more fragile. However, while these changes can make us more prone to bruising, spontaneous bruising can also be a sign of underlying issues, ranging from minor to more serious.
While the occasional unexplained bruise might be harmless, recurrent spontaneous bruising always warrants a medical investigation. It’s vital to rule out potential causes such as nutritional deficiencies, blood disorders, bone marrow issues, clotting disorders, autoimmune conditions, or even rare genetic factors.
Certain medications can also contribute to bruising. This is particularly true for medications that thin the blood, as well as steroid treatments.
When to Consult Your GP
It’s an excellent idea to schedule an appointment with your GP to discuss your symptoms. They can perform some basic tests to help determine the cause of your bruising.
Blood tests are a crucial frist step. They can definitely help assess your clotting ability, check your platelet count, and identify any nutritional deficiencies. These tests can also evaluate your liver function, as the liver plays a vital role in blood clotting.
When you see your doctor, be sure to mention any other symptoms you might be experiencing, even if they seem unrelated.This could include things like persistent fatigue or prolonged bleeding from even minor cuts. Sharing this information can provide valuable clues for your doctor.
Understanding Bruising
Bruises, medically known as contusions, occur when small blood vessels (capillaries) near the skin’s surface break, usually due to impact. The blood leaks out of these vessels and pools under the skin, causing the characteristic discolouration.
Factors that can increase bruising:
Age: As mentioned, skin thinning and vessel fragility increase with age.
Medications: Blood thinners (anticoagulants and antiplatelets), aspirin, and corticosteroids are common culprits.
Supplements: Some supplements, like fish oil or ginkgo biloba, can also have blood-thinning effects.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of Vitamin C or Vitamin K can affect blood clotting and vessel strength.
Medical Conditions: Various conditions, including liver disease, kidney disease, certain blood cancers (like leukemia or lymphoma), and bleeding disorders (like hemophilia or von Willebrand disease), can lead to easy bruising.
Genetics: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to bruising more easily.
What to Expect at Your Doctor’s Appointment
Your GP will likely:
- Take a detailed medical history: they’ll ask about your symptoms,when they started,any medications or supplements you take,and your family’s medical history.
- Perform a physical examination: They will look at the bruises, noting their size, location, and age. they may also check for other signs of bleeding.
- Order blood tests: As discussed,these will help assess your blood’s clotting ability,platelet count,and check for deficiencies or signs of underlying disease.
- Discuss lifestyle factors: They might ask about your diet and any recent changes.
Don’t Dismiss It
While it’s possible that your bruising is simply a result of ageing, it’s always best to get it checked out by a medical professional. Early diagnosis and treatment of any underlying conditions are key to maintaining your health and well-being.
TIP*
Flying on a plane can sometiems be uncomfortable. My tips for a more comfortable journey are to avoid tight clothing or belts, as the tummy can bloat due to cabin pressure. Eating light meals, limiting caffeine and alcohol, and walking about regularly can also make a big difference.