HOME FIRST AID: BUMPS AND BRUISES

Bumps are swellings caused by fluid under the surface of the skin. Bruises are bluish or purplecoloured patches that appear because tiny blood vessels beneath the skin burst and leak blood into the soft tissue. As they heal, bruises go through colour changes from purple to brown to a yellowish green colour due to the breakdown of blood.

If you have a bump or bruise, cover it with something cold, such as a bag of peas or ice wrapped in a cloth, straight after the injury to limit damage and reduce the pain. Don’t leave it on for more than ten minutes.

If the injury is painful lie down and raise the area above your heart to help slow the flow of blood to the area and so reduce the swelling.

If a bump or bruise becomes very swollen or painful see your GP.