Ecchymosis

Ecchymosis (ecchymosis; from the Greek ekchymosis, which means “to shed fluid, blood”) is a bruise that forms under the skin as a result of the rupture of small blood vessels and the release of blood into the surrounding tissue.

The causes of the formation of ecchymosis can be mechanical injuries (impacts, compression, stretching), as well as blood clotting disorders. With ecchymosis, blood accumulates at the site of vascular damage, which gives the skin a characteristic bluish coloration. The size of ecchymosis can vary from a few millimeters to large spots with a diameter of 10-15 cm.

Ecchymosis usually does not pose a serious danger and goes away on its own within 1-2 weeks. To speed up resorption, it is recommended to apply cold and use ointments with heparin or troxevasin. In case of large, painful ecchymoses, as well as the presence of concomitant injuries, you should consult a doctor.