When does easy or recurrent bruising need investigation?
Minor injury, ageing and some medicines can cause bruising, while platelet or clotting problems are other possibilities. New frequent or large unexplained bruises, especially with bleeding elsewhere, deserve assessment rather than vitamin supplements alone.
Details
Collect useful details
Photograph new bruises and report possible injuries, gum or nose bleeding, heavy periods and family history. List anticoagulants, aspirin, painkillers, steroids and herbs. A blood count or clotting tests may be selected according to the findings.
Do not stop anticoagulants yourself
Medicines may contribute, but balancing bleeding and clotting risks requires a clinician. Do not automatically stop or reduce treatment or add herbs or painkillers that may increase bleeding.
Emergency warning signs
Uncontrolled bleeding, vomiting blood, black stool with dizziness or severe headache after head injury requires urgent care. If taking anticoagulants, seek urgent advice after a head impact even when the external bruise looks small.
Related reading: How do I stop a nosebleed, and when do recurrent episodes need review?.