Bruising is common, but some people bruise more easily than others. While occasional bruising is normal, frequent or unexplained bruising may indicate an underlying issue. Bruises form when small blood vessels, or capillaries, break and leak blood into the skin. The body reabsorbs this blood over time, causing the bruise to fade.
Several factors can make bruising more likely:Genetics: Some people inherit fragile blood vessels or thinner skin, which makes bruising easier. Conditions like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome also contribute to this.Aging: As skin thins with age, blood vessels become more vulnerable, increasing bruising risk.Medications: Blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, anticoagulants) and corticosteroids can make bruising more frequent by affecting blood clotting and vessel strength.Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of vitamins like C (for collagen) and K (for blood clotting), along with other nutrients like B12 and folic acid, can increase bruising.Understanding these factors can help address and reduce unexplained bruising.